Trump Proposes New Global Role for Cambodia in Middle East Peace Effort
US President Donald J. Trump has formally invited Prime Minister Hun Manet to take part in a newly proposed international body aimed at advancing peace in the Middle East, according to a White House letter dated January 16. The invitation positions Cambodia as a potential founding member of what Trump described as The Board of Peace, an international organisation and transitional governing administration envisioned under his administration’s Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict. The move signals Washington’s interest in engaging a broader range of countries, including Cambodia, in shaping a new multilateral approach to conflict resolution in one of the world’s most volatile regions.
Vision Behind the Board of Peace Initiative
In his letter to Prime Minister Hun Manet, Trump described the invitation as his “Great Honor” and framed the initiative as a “critically Historic and Magnificent effort to solidify Peace in the Middle East and, at the same time, to embark on a bold new approach to resolving Global Conflict”. He explained that the proposed Board of Peace would sit at the core of his broader plan, bringing together nations willing to assume responsibility for long term stability and reconstruction. Trump emphasized that participation would be reserved for countries ready to lead by example and invest in what he called a secure and prosperous future for generations to come.
International Backing and United Nations Endorsement
According to the letter, the proposal builds on Trump’s September 29, 2025 announcement of a 20 point roadmap to end the Gaza conflict, a plan he said had gained support from leaders across the Arab world, Israel, and Europe. He further noted that this vision received international legitimacy on November 17, when the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 2803, which he said welcomed and endorsed the plan. Trump underscored the importance of this backing, stating, “At the heart of the Plan is The Board of Peace, the most impressive and consequential Board ever assembled, which will be established as a new International Organisation and Transitional Governing Administration.”
Cambodia’s Potential Role as a Founding Member
As chairman of the proposed Board, Trump formally invited Cambodia “to join as a Founding Member State, and become a party to the Charter of The Board of Peace”, with Prime Minister Hun Manet representing the Kingdom. The letter clarified that each member state would be allowed to appoint an authorised representative to attend and actively participate in board meetings. Trump also enclosed the Comprehensive Plan and a draft Charter, noting that both documents were open for signature and ratification, indicating that the initiative is moving beyond concept toward implementation.
Awaiting Phnom Penh’s Response
While the invitation places Cambodia in a potentially influential international role, Cambodian officials have not yet publicly responded. It remains unclear whether Phnom Penh will accept the proposal outright or seek further clarification on the structure, authority, and mandate of the proposed Board of Peace. Trump closed his letter on an optimistic note, writing, “I look forward to working with you, long into the future, toward the goal of establishing lasting WORLD PEACE, PROSPERITY, AND GREATNESS FOR ALL!” The coming weeks may determine whether Cambodia chooses to step onto this expanded diplomatic stage.
Conclusion
Trump’s invitation to Prime Minister Hun Manet reflects a broader effort to reshape global peace building through inclusive international leadership. For Cambodia, the proposal presents both an opportunity and a challenge, offering a chance to contribute to Middle East stability while requiring careful consideration of diplomatic commitments and global responsibilities. How Phnom Penh responds could shape its international profile and signal its willingness to engage more deeply in global conflict resolution efforts.