Cambodia joins US-led Board of Peace as founding member, Hun Manet says

Phnom Penh, Jan 27, 2025 (KPT) – Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech ThipadeiHun Manet announced Tuesday that Cambodia has accepted an invitation from US President Donald J. Trump to join as a founding member of the newly established Board of Peace.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet said the decision, taken on January 16, 2026, underscores Cambodia’s commitment to global peace. “Goodwill, love of peace, support and contribution to building and maintaining peace are principles Cambodia has always upheld,” he wrote on his official media account.

He pointed to Cambodia’s record of deploying peacekeeping forces under the United Nations to war-affected countries, stressing the nation’s dedication to international stability.

Responding to public concerns over costs, Hun Manet clarified that Cambodia’s three-year founding membership carries no financial obligations. He said the reported US$1 billion fee applies only to permanent membership.

 At a press conference in Sihanoukville on Sunday, Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, reaffirmed Washington’s respect for Cambodia’s territorial integrity, calling it the cornerstone of bilateral ties spanning more than seven decades.

“The United States has profound respect for its relationship with Cambodia… The most important aspect of this relationship is the recognition of Cambodia’s territorial integrity,” Paparo said.

He added that the deployment of a US warship was intended to demonstrate trust in Cambodia’s sovereignty and the strength of the partnership. Paparo confirmed that the two countries will hold joint military exercises next month.