Cambodia Briefs Diplomats on Thailand’s Withdrawal from Maritime MoU, Urges Resolution Under International Law

PHNOM PENH, May 12, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has expressed regret over Thailand’s unilateral decision to terminate a key maritime agreement, while reaffirming its commitment to resolving border disputes through peaceful and legal means, officials said Tuesday.

Acting Foreign Minister Eat Sophea briefed representatives from 43 diplomatic missions and international organisations in Phnom Penh on developments in Cambodia‑Thailand border issues since January.

Sophea said Cambodia regretted Thailand’s move to end the 2001 memorandum of understanding on overlapping maritime claims, describing it as the only bilateral mechanism for addressing boundary disputes.

She reiterated that borders must not be changed by force and stressed disputes should be resolved in accordance with international law and existing agreements.

Cambodia has formally notified Thailand of its decision to pursue compulsory conciliation under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Sophea thanked ASEAN partners for supporting dialogue, highlighting Malaysia and the Philippines as current and incoming chairs, and noting contributions from China and the United States in confidence‑building efforts.

She welcomed Philippine support in arranging a trilateral meeting with Thailand on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in Cebu earlier this month, saying Cambodia hoped upcoming talks would ease tensions and restore trust.

Sophea reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to peaceful dispute resolution and regional stability, presenting an overview of the situation along the border following the ceasefire reached on December 27, 2025.