The government spokesperson revealed that the Cabinet resolved to cancel the 1994 MOU, emphasizing that this is not a closure of negotiation channels but a shift to using the international UNCLOS framework to upgrade negotiation tools, protect national interests, and aim for concrete results.
5 May 2026 GMT+7 Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Office of the Prime Minister, revealed that the Cabinet meeting resolved to cancel the Memorandum of Understanding on the overlapping continental shelf claims between Thailand and Cambodia, or the 1994 MOU, with a decision to shift the approach to using international legal mechanisms under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as the primary tool for action, to elevate the protection of the country's interests.
This approach aligns with the proposals and information provided by Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkaew, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, who explained the necessity to update the operational framework to keep pace with current situations and adhere to internationally recognized law.
The spokesperson for the Office of the Prime Minister emphasized that the cancellation of the 1994 MOU is an adjustment of the cooperation framework, not a termination of relations or negotiations. Thailand continues talks with Cambodia but will now use the UNCLOS mechanism, which is clearer, more comprehensive, and systematic, to ensure effective resolution of maritime disputes.
The original 1994 MOU aimed to guide joint management of marine resources in overlapping areas between Thailand and Cambodia. However, over more than 20 years, no concrete progress has been made, necessitating a review and change of approach to achieve clear results that align with Thailand's interests. Thailand remains committed to respecting international law and is ready to use UNCLOS processes, which cover both legal provisions and dispute resolution practices between states, especially requiring overlapping claims to be addressed primarily through negotiation.
Additionally, Thailand has already informally notified Cambodia and will proceed with formal notification, while preparing to propose jointly using the UNCLOS framework in negotiations. Meanwhile, the government is establishing technical and legal committees to systematically and comprehensively support operations under the new framework.
“The transition from MOU 44 to the UNCLOS framework upgrades negotiation tools based on international law that Thailand has always upheld. This is not ending cooperation. Thailand continues constructive negotiations focusing on national interests and aims to achieve tangible outcomes.”