Thai Government Stands Firm on Gulf of Thailand MoU Amid Controversy

Bangkok, The Gulf Observer: Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has reaffirmed the government’s readiness to address concerns surrounding its decision to support a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Cambodia over overlapping maritime claims in the Gulf of Thailand. A Joint Technical Committee (JTC) is expected to be established later this month to advance discussions under the framework.

The prime minister’s remarks came in response to a petition submitted by Dr. Warong Dechgitvigrom, chief adviser of the Thai Pakdee Party, and a group of nationalists, calling for the cancellation of the 2001 Thai-Cambodian MoU (MoU 44). The petition, received by Sompas Nilphan, an adviser to the permanent secretary of the PM’s Office, argues that the MoU threatens Thai maritime territory and national resources.

Dr. Warong asserted that negotiations should adhere strictly to international law and demanded that Cambodia comply fully with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982 treaty before any agreements are reached. He accused Cambodia of unilaterally demarcating maritime boundaries and urged Thailand to refrain from agreeing to share benefits from energy exploration in the disputed zone, which he claimed could jeopardize Thai sovereignty.

Further, Dr. Warong criticized past JTCs as ineffective and challenged the government to a public debate, accusing it of presenting a one-sided narrative that has caused confusion among the public.

In response, Prime Minister Paetongtarn clarified that the government’s intent is to prioritize mutual benefits over territorial division. “We are not sharing areas, but rather common interests, particularly in natural gas resources,” she explained. She emphasized that the MoU provides a framework for negotiations aimed at achieving equitable solutions.

The prime minister also questioned the motives behind the petitioners’ call for the MoU’s revocation, reaffirming that the government remains committed to transparency and constructive dialogue. She assured that all necessary clarifications would be provided as the JTC is re-established to advance talks on the issue.

The Gulf of Thailand dispute remains a sensitive topic, with both nations seeking to balance national interests and regional cooperation.