Donald Trump links Thailand, Cambodia trade deals to ceasefire

President Trump on Saturday said no trade deals would be struck with Thailand and Cambodia until they cease fighting.

Mr. Trump, who is in Scotland, said he spoke with Cambodia’s prime minister, Hun Manet, and the acting premier of Thailand, Phumtham Wechayachai, to “request” a ceasefire and end the fighting over long-disputed border areas.

The president said trade deals are being discussed with both countries, but nothing will be finalized until the fighting is stopped.

“I am trying to simplify a complex situation! Many people are being killed in this War, but it very much reminds me of the Conflict between Pakistan and India, which was brought to a successful halt,” he posted on social media.

In a second post, he said his conversation with Mr. Wechayachai was productive and that Thailand wants “an immediate Ceasefire, and PEACE.”

“I am now going to relay that message back to the Prime Minister of Cambodia. After speaking to both Parties, Ceasefire, Peace, and Prosperity seem to be a natural,” he wrote.

Tensions have flared between the two Southeast Asian countries, with clashes breaking out along the border. Over 30 people have died due to the fighting, with tens of thousands displaced.

In a third post, Mr. Trump wrote that he spoke once again with Mr. Manet.

“Both Parties are looking for an immediate Ceasefire and Peace. They are also looking to get back to the ‘Trading Table’ with the United States, which we think is inappropriate to do until such time as the fighting STOPS,” the president said. “They have agreed to immediately meet and quickly work out a Ceasefire and, ultimately, PEACE!”

He said trade deals will be made with both countries when “peace is at hand.”

Mr. Trump has threatened reciprocal tariffs of 36% on imports from Cambodia and Thailand, set to go into effect on Aug. 1.