Cambodian and Thai officials have concluded their inaugural meeting under a UN-backed conciliation process aimed at settling a long-standing maritime boundary dispute. The proceedings, held at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in Singapore, involved legal teams and foreign ministers from both nations.
The dispute concerns overlapping claims in the Gulf of Thailand, an area believed to contain significant hydrocarbon reserves. Cambodia initiated the compulsory conciliation process under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in June, following Thailand’s withdrawal from a 2001 framework agreement that had previously governed discussions on joint resource exploration.
During the opening session, Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow stated that Thailand intends to protect its maritime rights while seeking an equitable solution. He criticized Cambodia’s approach, accusing the nation of “playing the role of a victim” and failing to engage in direct bilateral negotiations prior to seeking international intervention. Conversely, Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn emphasized his country's commitment to a peaceful resolution that benefits both populations, noting that Cambodia remains open to a joint development agreement.
The process is overseen by a five-member Conciliation Commission chaired by Australian diplomat Katrina Cooper. While the commission will issue recommendations at the conclusion of its year-long review, these findings will not be legally binding. According to political analyst Seng Vanly, the core of the disagreement lies in the sequencing of negotiations: Cambodia seeks a final boundary agreement or concurrent joint development, whereas Thailand maintains that maritime delimitation must be resolved first.
Both nations have expressed a willingness to continue the process, with further meetings expected in the coming months. Thailand indicated that the next session is scheduled for October.
Source: CamboJA News
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