US engagement at Asean Summit signals renewed focus on S-E Asia
Trump’s visit offers both validation and a reminder of Asean’s pivotal position in great power competition
US PRESIDENT Donald Trump’s attendance of the 47th Asean Summit in Kuala Lumpur (Oct 26 to 27), marked a significant diplomatic moment for US-Asean relations.
This was his first visit to South-east Asia since beginning his second presidency in January 2025, and his presence signalled a renewed American commitment to a region increasingly caught between US and Chinese spheres of influence.
Peace and trade
The summit saw the brokering of the historic Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord between Thailand and Cambodia, which ended border tensions between the two nations. This peace deal showcased diplomatic leadership in regional conflict resolution, with the US serving as observer while Malaysia facilitated the agreement.
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