Cambodia Says Thailand’s MoU Exit Undermines Maritime Framework

PHNOM PENH, May 5, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia’s foreign minister warned Tuesday that Thailand’s reported unilateral withdrawal from a 2001 memorandum of understanding risks dismantling the framework long used to resolve overlapping maritime claims between the two countries.

Prak Sokhonn said the agreement, known as MoU 2001, had provided a basis for peaceful settlement of boundary disputes in line with international law.

He described Thailand’s move as a departure from political will to address the issue through dialogue, particularly in contested maritime areas.

Speaking at a press briefing, Sokhonn noted the MoU had been in place for more than two decades and had served as a mechanism to foster cooperation and goodwill.

“This MoU established a framework that emphasises peaceful resolution of overlapping maritime areas and boundary issues between the two nations, in accordance with international law,” he said.

He added that Cambodia may pursue compulsory conciliation under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea if bilateral mechanisms are no longer viable.

Sokhonn stressed that Thailand’s withdrawal would not affect Cambodia’s legal position on maritime claims, reaffirming Phnom Penh’s commitment to resolving disputes peacefully under UNCLOS.

The minister also expressed disappointment over what he described as a unilateral decision by Bangkok to cancel the agreement, warning that such a move could undermine regional stability and trust built over years of negotiation.