Sihasak calls for confidence and assurance in fully protecting the country's interests, noting Cambodia's rush to initiate compulsory conciliation under UNCLOS contradicts its consistent demands.
3 June 2026 GMT+7 Mr. Sihasak Puangketkaew, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, issued a statement regarding Cambodia's notification to use compulsory conciliation under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). While visiting France, he said that Thailand has consistently informed Cambodia that the termination of the 2001 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU 2001) between Thailand and Cambodia on the overlapping continental shelf claims was necessary because the MOU no longer fits the new context. Thailand intends to start fresh discussions without being bound by previous sticking points, aiming for talks based on international law and UNCLOS principles, to which both countries are now parties.
Sihasak further stated that Thailand seeks ways to move forward toward mutual benefits, emphasizing that resolving issues directly between neighboring countries is the best path to a constructive and mutually accepted outcome. However, Cambodia's hasty decision to initiate compulsory conciliation under UNCLOS runs counter to its long-standing calls for restoring bilateral relations and dialogue frameworks, including on land border issues. Cambodia should consider the possible consequences that might disrupt or halt its own appeals.
Thailand is fully prepared to proceed under UNCLOS, prioritizing the country's highest interests. Sihasak is scheduled to meet with Thailand's legal advisors to prepare a list of conciliators and formulate stances, all of which Thailand has anticipated and prepared for.
The compulsory conciliation process is one method of dispute settlement under UNCLOS. Its outcome is a set of recommendations from the conciliators to resolve issues, which both parties may use in further negotiations. These recommendations are not legally binding, and the parties must continue direct discussions on unresolved matters.
"Please be assured that Thailand is ready to undertake all related actions and is confident it can fully protect the nation's interests."
Regarding Cambodia's allegations about land border issues, Sihasak firmly denies them and reiterates that Thailand adheres to the Joint Statement from the 3rd Special Session of the GBC Meeting between Thailand and Cambodia on 27 December 2025, which both countries agreed upon to support tension reduction, maintain peace and security, and ensure the safety of their people.