WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump urged the leaders of Cambodia and Thailand to end three days of fighting along their border, and they agreed to meet to negotiate a ceasefire.
Trump, who is in Scotland to play golf and talk trade, said on social media July 26 he had spoken to Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand’s acting prime minister, Phumtham Wechayachai. He warned them that he would not make trade deals with either government if the border conflict continued.
“Both Parties are looking for an immediate Ceasefire and Peace,” Trump said.
More than 30 people have been killed and 130,000 people displaced in the worst fighting between the countries in 13 years. Both sides said they acted in self defense in the border dispute.
Thailand and Cambodia have bickered for decades over jurisdiction of various points along the land border. Ownership of the ancient Hindu temples Ta Moan Thom and the 11th century Preah Vihear are central to the disputes.
The two countries have faced off since the killing of a Cambodian soldier late in May during a brief skirmish. Troops on both sides of the border were reinforced amid a full-blown diplomatic crisis that brought Thailand’s fragile coalition government to the brink of collapse.
Trump has threatened both countries with 36% tariffs but said trade talks will stall without a ceasefire.
“When all is done, and Peace is at hand, I look forward to concluding our Trading Agreements with both!” Trump said.
Contributing: Reuters
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump helps mediate Thailand, Cambodia border dispute with trade talk
