U.S. President Donald J. Trump announced his departure en route to Malaysia, where he will oversee the signing of a landmark peace agreement between Cambodia and Thailand. This high-stakes diplomatic event comes amid escalating tensions following a serious border conflict earlier this year.

Trump, who played a pivotal role in brokering this peace deal, stated he will sign the agreement “immediately” upon his arrival in Malaysia ahead of the ASEAN Summit 2025. The announcement was made via his social media platform, Truth Social, while aboard Air Force One.

“I am on my way to Malaysia, where I will sign the great Peace Deal, which I proudly brokered between Cambodia and Thailand. Sadly, the Queen Mother of Thailand has just passed away. I send my condolences to the Great People of Thailand. I will be seeing their wonderful Prime Minister when we land. In order to accommodate everyone for this major event, we will be signing the Peace Deal immediately upon arrival. See you soon!” Trump posted.

The long-standing border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia intensified in July this year, culminating in a five-day clash that resulted in casualties and displacement of thousands on both sides. A ceasefire mediated by Malaysia was implemented in late July, with ASEAN observers overseeing the truce.

Following recent developments, Thailand and Cambodia agreed to accelerate efforts to demarcate their shared boundary. A two-day meeting of the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) in Chanthaburi, Thailand, concluded on October 22 with several key agreements aimed at advancing the land demarcation process. Both nations committed to immediate measures, including the replacement of 15 Boundary Pillars at designated locations, to facilitate border resolution.

Thailand’s Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow highlighted the nearing completion of the border resolution, stating, “The ceremony will be witnessed by U.S. President Donald Trump, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and other ASEAN leaders.” Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed optimism about ongoing cooperation, emphasizing the shared commitment to peaceful demarcation through dialogue and technical cooperation.

Chea Lam, Minister in charge of the State Secretariat of Border Affairs and Co-Chairman of the Cambodian side headed the Cambodian delegation, while the Thai delegation was led by Prasas Prasasvinitchai, Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Co-Chairman of the Thai side.