“Asian Way” versus “Trump’s Way” over Peacemaking

The Thailand–Cambodia conflict highlights a clear contrast between China’s quiet, non-coercive “Asian Way” diplomacy and the US-style, pressure-driven “Trump’s Way,” while underscoring Thailand’s own commitment to an independent “Thai Way.” China pursued restrained facilitation through respect, verification, humanitarian support, and ASEAN mechanisms, helping rebuild dialogue without coercion, whereas Donald Trump relied on tariff threats to secure a swift but fragile ceasefire. Shaped by domestic politics and rising nationalism, Thailand upheld firm sovereignty red lines and demanded verified implementation. Overall, this case shows that lasting peace in Southeast Asia depends not only on great-power strategies but also on respecting Thailand’s insistence on sincerity, reciprocity, and sovereignty.

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