Prak Sokhonn briefs diplomats on Cambodia’s UNCLOS move over maritime claims

PHNOM PENH, June 2, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn has briefed diplomats and representatives of international organisations on the government’s decision to initiate compulsory conciliation proceedings under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) to address overlapping maritime claims with Thailand.

Speaking in Phnom Penh, Sokhonn said Cambodia had formally notified Thailand and the UN Secretary-General of its decision to begin the UNCLOS process.

He thanked ASEAN member states, dialogue partners and other countries for supporting efforts to maintain peace and encourage a negotiated settlement of disputes between Cambodia and Thailand.

Sokhonn expressed regret over Thailand’s withdrawal from the 2001 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU-2001), which for more than two decades had served as the framework for discussions on overlapping maritime claims.

The agreement, he said, reflected both countries’ commitment to resolving boundary issues peacefully and in accordance with international law, while pursuing joint development of resources in disputed areas.

Following Thailand’s withdrawal, Cambodia reviewed available options before deciding to pursue compulsory conciliation under UNCLOS.

Sokhonn cited the conciliation process between Timor-Leste and Australia, which culminated in a maritime boundary agreement in 2018, as an example of how international legal mechanisms can resolve complex disputes peacefully.

He voiced hope that the process would strengthen confidence, support economic development and contribute to regional peace and stability.

The foreign minister reiterated Cambodia’s commitment to resolving the maritime dispute through peaceful means and said the government aimed to achieve a fair and lasting settlement with Thailand.