Thai cabinet cancels 2001 MOU with Cambodia, ending 25-year framework

BANGKOK — Thailand’s cabinet has approved the cancellation of the 2001 memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Cambodia on overlapping maritime claims, with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul insisting the move will not affect border stability.

Speaking after the cabinet meeting at Government House at 12:30 on 5 May, Anutin said the decision was not linked to any current dispute with Cambodia, but reflected a policy review of a framework that has been in place for more than 25 years without reaching a conclusion.

He said both countries could instead rely on existing international frameworks, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), to guide future discussions, noting that Thailand and Cambodia are both parties to the convention.

Asked about remarks by Cambodian senate president Hun Sen that scrapping the MOU could intensify disputes, Anutin declined to comment, saying reporters should seek clarification from the Cambodian side.

The prime minister added that there have been no negotiations between the two countries at present, and any future talks would take place under a “new context”, with the 2001 MOU no longer forming the basis.

On next steps, Anutin said Thailand would formally notify Cambodia of the decision before it takes effect. He noted that any future arrangement on sharing benefits from undersea resources would require fresh discussions and potentially a new agreement.

Regarding the upcoming ASEAN Summit in the Philippines, Anutin said he expected to meet Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and stressed that Thailand was ready for dialogue.

“We have no problem meeting and talking,” he said. “I can assure the Thai people of a ‘Thailand First’ approach. There will be nothing for the country to lose.”

Responding to concerns over possible tensions along the Thai–Cambodian border, Anutin said security agencies and the military remain on alert and continue to monitor the situation closely.

“There is no cause for concern. In fact, the situation has improved,” he said, adding that he receives regular updates from the armed forces.