Regarding the Progress of the Compulsory Conciliation Mechanism under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) August 17, 2026
Regarding the Progress of the Compulsory Conciliation Mechanism under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) August 17, 2026
Cambodia PR Team Responses
Regarding the Progress of the Compulsory Conciliation Mechanism under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)
August 17, 2026
Q1: How does Cambodia view the appointment of Ms. Katrina Cooper as Chairperson of the Conciliation Commission under the UNCLOS mechanism?
A: Cambodia welcomes and expresses its appreciation to Ms. Katrina Cooper for her agreement to take on the role of Chairperson of the Conciliation Commission. Cambodia considers this appointment as a significant step forward in the conciliation process initiated by Cambodia under UNCLOS. The Commission is composed of five independent conciliators, with appointees from both the Cambodian and Thai sides, and the four conciliators agreed to appoint Ms. Katrina Cooper as Chairperson, following consultations with both parties. Cambodia is confident that this Commission, composed of international experts, will carry out its functions independently and in accordance with the procedures set forth under UNCLOS.
Q2: What does Cambodia expect from the conciliation process under the UNCLOS mechanism?
A: Cambodia expects that this conciliation process will provide an opportunity for both parties to resolve differences concerning maritime issues peacefully and in accordance with international law. At the same time, Cambodia also hopes that this process can help create suitable conditions for the development of potential oil and gas resources within the overlapping maritime claims area. Cambodia believes that achieving progress on these matters is not only important for both countries but could also contribute to regional energy security.
Q3: Now that the Conciliation Commission has been fully constituted, what is the next phase of the conciliation process under the UNCLOS mechanism?
A: Following the appointment of Ms. Katrina Cooper as Chairperson and the full composition of the Conciliation Commission, the conciliation process will proceed to the next phase. As expected, the Commission will convene its first meeting in the coming weeks to discuss and determine the procedures for its work. The full establishment of the Commission provides an important foundation to allow the conciliation process to begin its practical work and move forward within the UNCLOS framework. Cambodia will continue to participate in this process in good faith and place its trust in the conciliation mechanism, with the aim of seeking a peaceful solution in accordance with international law.
