Cambodia and Thailand Conclude First Joint Reconciliation Meeting on Maritime Boundary Dispute

Cambodia and Thailand have concluded their first reconciliation meeting in Singapore, established under Annex V of the UN Convention on the Sea (UNCLOS), aimed at resolving their maritime boundary dispute. The meeting marks a significant step as both nations explore comprehensive solutions, potentially including joint development and resource sharing. Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Prak Sokhonn, expressed Cambodia's unwavering trust and full support for the process. During the session, Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn and Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Don Pramudwinai, signed the terms of appointment for the commission and agreed on the regulations governing the reconciliation process. Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn stated that Cambodia's primary objective is to achieve a resolution that serves the interests of both peoples and contributes to regional peace, cooperation, and shared prosperity. Cambodia aims to conclude a treaty with Thailand, with the assistance of the reconciliation commission, to establish a comprehensive maritime boundary between the two countries, or an agreement for joint development and resource sharing under UNCLOS. Should these options not be achievable, Cambodia will request the commission to prepare a report with recommendations that can serve as a basis for future negotiations, in line with the obligations of both states under international law. The reconciliation commission anticipates holding further meetings with Cambodia and Thailand in the coming months. Cambodia remains fully committed to participating constructively and in good faith to achieve a just and lasting solution to the maritime boundary dispute between the parties, including the development of energy resources in overlapping claim areas, for the benefit of both countries. Cambodia firmly believes that international law provides a pathway for the peaceful settlement of disputes between states, and it participates in the reconciliation process with a spirit of cooperation and full confidence in the process.