US welcomes Cambodia as founding member of Board of Peace

PHNOM PENH, 28 January 2026 (KPT) – The United States has welcomed Cambodia as a founding member of the newly established Board of Peace, an international initiative announced by President Donald Trump.

In a post on social media platform X, the Board of Peace confirmed Cambodia’s participation as one of its founding members.

The announcement followed a statement earlier this week by Prime Minister Hun Manet, who said Cambodia had accepted Mr Trump’s invitation to join the initiative. He noted the decision was taken on 16 January.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet wrote on his official account that the move reflected Cambodia’s longstanding commitment to peace.

“Goodwill, love of peace, support and contribution to building and maintaining peace are principles Cambodia has always upheld,” he said.

The prime minister highlighted Cambodia’s role in United Nations peacekeeping missions, citing the deployment of Cambodian forces to conflict-affected countries as evidence of its support for international stability.

Government spokesman Pen Bona said the decision demonstrated Cambodia’s “genuine peace-loving spirit.”

Political analyst Kin Phea said the move was consistent with Cambodia’s constitution, which emphasises peace and international cooperation.

He noted it comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions and regional challenges, including the sensitive border situation with Thailand.

Another analyst, Yang Peou, described the decision as pragmatic, saying the Board of Peace could serve as a platform for mediation and conflict de-escalation.

“The Cambodian government has consistently supported peace initiatives,” he said, pointing to Cambodia’s advocacy for peaceful border resolution and its backing of UN-led frameworks.