I've said this before, Thailand may want to tread carefully here. If Bangkok unilaterally withdraws from MOU43, it removes the existing framework that has kept both sides from escalating maritime disputes. Once that restraint is gone, Cambodia would be free to pursue joint exploration or security activities with any partner it chooses (including Vietnam or China) in waters Thailand also claims. That could leave Thailand with even less influence over developments in the overlapping area than it has now, and potentially strengthen the presence of third countries right on its maritime doorstep. In that sense, ending the MOU could easily backfire.
Create an account or sign in to comment