KUALA LUMPUR: United States (US) President Donald Trump has praised Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for his efforts in resolving the recent border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia.
Trump said he had a “very good conversation” with the Prime Minister of Thailand, Anutin Charnvirakul, and the Prime Minister of Cambodia, Hun Manet, regarding the reawakening of their long-running war.
“They have agreed to CEASE all shooting effective this evening, and go back to the original peace accord made with me, and them, with the help of the Great Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim,” he posted on Facebook.
He described the roadside bomb that killed and wounded Thai soldiers as an accident but noted that “Thailand nevertheless retaliated very strongly.”
Meanwhile, AFP reported that Cambodia said Thailand continued bombing hours after Trump called for a truce.
Both Thailand and Cambodia are members of the 10-member Asean bloc, highlighting the regional significance of the ceasefire and the potential for broader diplomatic and economic stability.
The latest clashes between the Southeast Asian neighbours, which stem from a long-running dispute over the colonial-era demarcation of their 800km frontier, have displaced around half a million on both sides.
Nonetheless, Trump added that both countries were now prepared for peace and continued trade with the US.
“It is my honour to work with Anutin and Hun in resolving what could have evolved into a major war between two otherwise wonderful and prosperous countries,” he said.
Expressing gratitude to the Malaysian leader, Trump stated, “I would like to thank the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, for his assistance in this very important matter.”
At least 23 people have been killed in fighting between Thailand and Cambodia since Monday.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
