KUALA LUMPUR: The signing of the peace agreement between Thailand and Cambodia, which Bangkok had requested to be brought forward, will depend on the schedule of United States President Donald Trump.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said discussions were ongoing, and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is expected to arrive in Kuala Lumpur by tonight.
“The Thai Prime Minister could not attend earlier due to the passing of Queen Mother Sirikit.
“However, he is expected to arrive tonight. We are still discussing the exact timing (for the signing ceremony) as it depends largely on President Trump‘s schedule,” he said at a press conference here today.
He said the tentative programme had been set, but adjustments could still be made once Trump‘s arrival time was confirmed.
Mohamad said the venue for the signing had not been finalised but was likely to be held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, where the 47th Asean Summit will take place.
“Tomorrow morning, we will have the opening ceremony of the 47th Asean Summit, followed by a Special Summit with the United States,” he said.
He said several related summits would also be held tomorrow, including the Japan–Asean Summit, the Asean Zero Emission Community Summit, and the Asean–India Summit.
“We had to reorganise the sequence because several heads of government have tight schedules.
“For example, the new Japanese prime minister has to return to Tokyo early as President Trump will be heading there next.
“The Indian President, who had earlier planned to return home, will now participate in the Asean–India Summit virtually,” he said.
Earlier, Thai Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesman Nikorndej Balankura said Bangkok was coordinating with the United States, Malaysia, and Cambodia to finalise the new schedule for the peace deal signing.
“We are working with the United States and Malaysia right now — Cambodia as well — to move it forward to 12pm. It hasn’t been finalised yet, but discussions are ongoing,” he said.
Nikorndej added that the upcoming signing marks an important step in renewing diplomatic ties between the two nations.
“It reflects Thailand and Cambodia’s commitment to renew their relations and work towards the normalisation of diplomatic activities,” he said.
Anwar had said on Oct 23 that the detailed terms of the peace agreement between Thailand and Cambodia — aimed at resolving their longstanding border dispute — are expected to be signed during the 47th Asean Summit.
In July, Thailand and Cambodia agreed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire following tensions along their shared border.
The agreement was reached during a special meeting between Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, with Anwar serving as host and Asean Chair.
Following the ceasefire, a meeting of the General Border Committee (GBC) was convened as part of the peace process conditions.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
