Thailand Slams Cambodia Over Maritime Dispute Claims at International Court

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow blasted Cambodia after delivering an opening statement at the UN-backed Permanent Court of Arbitration in Singapore, accusing the neighboring country of distorting the truth and repeatedly maligning Thailand with falsehoods concerning their long-standing dispute over valuable maritime resources. "Cambodia has continued to distort the truth and present falsehoods," Sihasak stated, strongly criticizing Cambodia's stance in the ongoing arbitration. This development escalates the tension between the two nations over the division of vast maritime resources, which both countries claim. The arbitration aims to settle the boundary of the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) claimed by Thailand and Cambodia, an area believed to contain rich reserves of oil and natural gas. This region has been a source of friction between the two countries in the past. Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs maintains that Cambodia's claims are not based on international law or facts and that they undermine regional stability. Deputy Prime Minister Sihasak's remarks indicate Thailand's firm resolve in addressing this issue. Source: Thai Newsroom