Cambodia, Thailand Extend UNCLOS Conciliation Chair Selection Period

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation announced on July 19 that Cambodia and Thailand have agreed to grant four independent conciliators additional time to select a chairperson for the Conciliation Commission under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). This commission is tasked with resolving the ongoing maritime differences between the two neighboring kingdoms. A ministry statement confirmed that the extension was requested by the conciliators themselves to ensure a careful and deliberate selection for the critical leadership role. This was in consideration of the high stakes of the appointment and the significance of the overall proceedings. Officials clarified that the extension will have no impact on the broader prescribed timeline or the mandatory procedural steps required under UNCLOS. The move is intended to uphold the integrity of the mediation, reflecting a rigorous approach by the independent experts, noted the ministry. It reiterated Cambodia’s commitment to pursuing a peaceful resolution to its maritime disputes with Thailand based strictly on international law.