Prime Minister Anutin regards Cambodia's extradition of "Uncle Yosh" back to Thailand as a positive sign but stresses that this does not mean Thailand will agree to everything. He pointed out that mutual trust can only develop once peace is restored and the people are safe.
On 16 May 2026 at the 2nd Cavalry Division, King's Guard, Sanam Pao, Bangkok, Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul spoke about Cambodia sending Mr. Yosh Sainoi back to Thailand. He said this can be seen as cooperation and a positive signal. He clarified that this issue should be distinguished—it is a government and administrative problem, not a conflict among the people. He asked for understanding, stating it is a government matter handled through official channels. He called it a good omen, noting that neither side has used people for bargaining or as an exchange. This distinction is clear, but he emphasized that just because Cambodia acted this way does not mean Thailand must concede everything. That remains a separate matter subject to negotiation.
When asked what else the government hopes both countries will develop to build mutual trust, Anutin said that during his meeting with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet at the ASEAN summit in the Philippines, he officially informed him verbally that Thailand has canceled MOU 44 and insists on adhering to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Cambodia responded with disappointment, expecting the previous approach to continue, but now that Thailand has canceled it, Cambodia will follow UNCLOS. At least there is a single common reference point, which is better than the previous situation where one side adhered to MOU 44 and the other to UNCLOS, like driving on different roads (Sukhumvit vs. New Phetchaburi Road) and never meeting. Now both sides share the same principle, providing a clear point of reference.
When asked about the current level of trust toward Cambodia, Anutin said that until everything is peaceful and settled, caution is necessary—especially in establishing security and safety measures along the border to protect Thai citizens.