Cambodia launches UN-backed process to settle maritime dispute with Thailand

Cambodia has formally notified the United Nations and Thailand that it has commenced a compulsory conciliation process under international law to settle a long-standing maritime boundary dispute. This significant step follows Thailand's decision last month to unilaterally withdraw from a 2001 agreement that had served as the framework for negotiations.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet declared that the initiative is intended to safeguard Cambodia's sovereignty and maritime rights in accordance with international legal principles. The dispute centers on overlapping maritime claims in the Gulf of Thailand, an area believed to hold significant natural resources.

Thailand's termination of the 2001 agreement was reportedly a campaign pledge by Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who came to power following nationalistic sentiment after deadly military clashes between the two nations last year along their land border. This move by Cambodia seeks to re-engage the international legal system in resolving the territorial disagreement.

The process is being conducted under the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). UNCLOS allows for a panel of independent experts to review such disputes and offer recommendations. However, it is crucial to note that these findings are not legally binding on either Cambodia or Thailand, leaving the ultimate resolution dependent on future negotiations or agreements between the two countries.

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We have taken this step to protect Cambodia's sovereignty and maritime rights in accordance with international law.