The signing took place in the presence of U.S. President Donald Trump, who played a key role in achieving the peace agreement. As part of the declaration, the parties agreed to cease hostilities and develop good-neighborly relations. According to the terms, Thailand commits to releasing 18 prisoners of war, while Cambodia will begin withdrawing heavy artillery from the border. Observers from Malaysia will monitor compliance with the ceasefire regime.
Hun Manet characterized the event as a "historic day," while Charnvirakul noted that the agreement lays the "foundation for lasting peace."
"We have achieved what many thought was impossible," Trump commented, adding that he enjoys preventing wars.
The conflict between Thailand and Cambodia began on July 24 due to a long-standing territorial dispute in the area of the Preah Vihear and Ta Moan Thom temples. The standoff lasted five days and resulted in the deaths of at least 35 people: 22 from Thailand and 13 from Cambodia, including 14 and 8 civilians, respectively. After Trump's intervention, Malaysia acted as a mediator, which facilitated the ceasefire agreement.
The signing ceremony was Trump's first event during his Asian tour. He also concluded a trade agreement with Cambodia and a deal on critical minerals with Thailand. Bangkok agreed to purchase 80 American aircraft for $18.8 billion, while Phnom Penh will collaborate with Boeing to develop its aviation sector. Additionally, Trump reached an agreement with Malaysia, which he called a "major trade deal," under which the country commits to invest $70 billion in the U.S. over the next decade.
In the future, Trump plans to visit Japan and South Korea, as well as meet with Chinese leader Xi Jinping to discuss the possibility of facilitating the resolution of the conflict in Ukraine.
