Thailand Faces Cambodia Warning Over Gulf Maritime MOU 44

Thailand’s new government is facing a warning from Cambodia after signalling it may unilaterally cancel the 2001 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU 44) covering overlapping maritime claims in the Gulf of Thailand. Cambodia said such a move would violate international law and undermine long-standing cooperation on energy development in the disputed area.

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The report, published by Khmer Times, said the Thai administration led by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is considering ending the agreement due to slow progress on boundary demarcation and energy negotiations over the past two decades. Scrapping the deal would also terminate a proposed 50-50 benefit-sharing arrangement, marking a significant policy shift.

MOU 44 was signed on 18 June 2001 as a framework agreement to jointly manage and define an overlapping maritime area of around 26,000 square kilometres in the Gulf of Thailand. The area is believed to be rich in oil and gas resources, with both countries aiming to settle maritime boundaries while simultaneously developing energy reserves.

In a statement issued on 8 April, Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said cancelling the agreement unilaterally would breach international law and contradict the spirit of cooperation between the two nations. It added that the MOU reflects genuine political will and a shared commitment to resolving maritime disputes through mutually acceptable frameworks.

The Cambodian statement further described MOU 44 as a symbol of goodwill, aimed at establishing maritime boundaries based on friendship, cooperation, and shared prosperity. It emphasised that under the agreement’s provisions, the MOU remains in force until all its objectives are fully achieved.

The potential cancellation raises concerns about future bilateral relations and energy cooperation in the Gulf of Thailand. Analysts suggest that ending the agreement could delay resource development and complicate efforts to resolve overlapping claims.

Amarin reported that both sides are expected to continue diplomatic discussions as the situation develops. The outcome will likely shape the future of maritime negotiations and energy collaboration between Thailand and Cambodia.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 11 Apr 2026