Cambodia, Thailand Agree to Extended Timeline for Maritime Dispute Commission Chair Selection

PHNOM PENH, July 20, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia said Monday that independent conciliators handling its maritime dispute with Thailand have asked for more time to decide who will chair a conciliation commission under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said the four conciliators proposed extending the selection process for the chairperson, with both Cambodia and Thailand agreeing to the request. The ministry described the additional time as “modest” and appropriate given the importance of the appointment and the overall proceedings. Officials stressed the delay would not affect deadlines or procedural steps set out under UNCLOS, adding that the move reflects the conciliators’ efforts to ensure a thorough and rigorous process. Cambodia expressed appreciation for the conciliators’ work and reaffirmed confidence in the mechanism. The ministry said the country remains committed to pursuing a peaceful resolution to its maritime differences with Thailand through UNCLOS procedures and in line with international law. The statement underscored Cambodia’s view that the conciliation process offers a constructive path forward, balancing national interests with adherence to international norms.