Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has responded to US President Donald Trump’s offer to act as a mediator in peace talks between Thailand and Cambodia, saying that while the gesture reflects goodwill, any negotiations must adhere to previously agreed principles.
Thailand has been the victim of aggression, and any talks must be based on four key conditions, Mr Anutin said on Wednesday. These were the complete withdrawal of all military personnel and weapons from disputed zones, the removal of all intruders from Thai sovereign territory, the clearance of hazardous materials that could endanger civilians, and reaffirmation of respect for Thailand’s sovereignty, he said.
Mr Anutin was speaking after the US news site Politico reported Mr Trump had said he was willing to attend the Asean Summit in Malaysia later this month — on condition that he could preside over the signing of a peace agreement between Thailand and Cambodia. According to Politico, the White House made Mr Trump’s attendance at the Oct 26-28 meeting in Kuala Lumpur contingent on a signing ceremony being held on the sidelines of the summit. The report cited three sources familiar with the matter, who declined to be identified.
The White House also asked that summit organisers exclude Chinese officials from the event, the report said. “Keeping China out would help ensure the spotlight stays on Trump, while downplaying Beijing’s efforts to mediate between Bangkok and Phnom Penh,” Politico said. The White House has since denied that Mr Trump linked his attendance to a desire to sign the peace deal. Reports suggest he is angling for the Nobel Peace Prize.
A source at Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the matter would ultimately be decided by Malaysia, which holds the Asean chair this year. Mr Anutin added: “Thailand is always ready for dialogue once these conditions are fully met. We are neighbours, after all, while the mediator is from another continent. If President Trump can help persuade Cambodia to comply with these terms, that would be welcome — it would ensure Thailand faces no further encroachments.”
When asked about reports that the Cambodian government had nominated Mr Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize to highlight their political ties, he replied: “I only care about what benefits Thailand. If anyone receives a prize, good for them.” Mr Trump has made no secret of his obsession with winning the prize. In recent months, he has claimed credit for ending as many as seven international conflicts. The winner will be announced on Friday.