Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin of Thailand and Cambodian counterpart Hun Manet have instigated discussions about the potential for joint petroleum exploration and production in the Gulf of Thailand.

 

The overlapping claims area (OCA), an area of 26,000 square kilometres that is believed to be rich in fossil fuels, is the focal point of these negotiations. The OCA is considered a high-potential petrol source due to its proximity to the Erawan and Bongkot gas blocks.

 

As Thailand strives to fulfil its commitment to promoting renewable energy, the country is also considering the exploration of more fossil fuels to reduce dependence on costly imported liquefied national gas. Currently, gas accounts for roughly 60% of the fuel used for power generation in Thailand.

 

The OCA discussions are crucial to Thailand’s energy future. With the global trend leaning towards clean energy, Thailand faces a potential obstacle in developing new petroleum projects.

 

by Alex Morgan 

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-15

 

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If Thailand had the submarine they could hold off the Cambodians and claim the area for themselves.