Thai Cabinet Ends 2001 Maritime Pact with Cambodia

Thailand's cabinet has approved the cancellation of a 2001 memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Cambodia concerning overlapping maritime claims. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul assured that the decision will not disrupt border stability, stating it's a policy revamp after years without resolution. The move shifts reliance on international frameworks like the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) for future negotiations.

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The 2001 MOU has been in place for over 25 years without a conclusive agreement. However, it was not associated with any current disputes, according to Anutin. When questioned about Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen’s comments on the potential for increased disputes, Anutin recommended seeking clarification from the Cambodian side.

Anutin emphasized that there are no active negotiations with Cambodia, and future talks will occur under a new framework. Before the cancellation takes effect, Thailand will notify Cambodia formally. Future agreements on undersea resource sharing will involve new discussions and possibly fresh accords.

Anutin is expected to discuss the issue with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet during the upcoming ASEAN Summit in the Philippines, highlighting Thailand's openness to dialogue. He reassured Thai citizens of a ‘Thailand First’ policy, ensuring national interests are not compromised.

In response to concerns about potential border tensions, Anutin confirmed that security forces and the military remain vigilant, monitoring the situation closely to prevent any instability.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Khaosod · 04 Mar 2026

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