UNCLOS Process Reflects Cambodia’s Commitment to Fair Maritime Settlement: PM
UNCLOS Process Reflects Cambodia’s Commitment to Fair Maritime Settlement: PM
Prime Minister Hun Manet has reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to resolving its maritime dispute with Thailand through international law, highlighting the Kingdom’s recent decision to initiate compulsory conciliation under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Speaking at the 3rd ASEAN Future Forum in Hanoi on Tuesday, Mr Hun Manet said Cambodia’s move reflected its determination to pursue a peaceful and lasting solution to overlapping maritime claims.
“Cambodia’s recent decision to initiate Compulsory Conciliation under UNCLOS demonstrates our sincere desire to seek a fair and lasting solution firmly grounded in international law,” he said.
He welcomed Thailand’s willingness to participate in the process.
“Thailand’s expressed preparations to engage in this facilitated process under UNCLOS are a welcome step towards a peaceful resolution of the overlapping maritime claims area,” Mr Hun Manet said.
“This resolution is in the shared interest of both countries and contributes to peace and stability in the region.”
The Prime Minister also thanked the international community for supporting efforts to maintain peace and promote dialogue between the two neighbouring countries.
“In this spirit, Cambodia sincerely appreciates the support of the international community, including ASEAN member countries, for the ceasefire and the peaceful settlement of the dispute between Cambodia and Thailand in accordance with international law and the principles of the UN and ASEAN Charters,” he said.
“Cambodia looks forward to their continued attention and support.”
The Thai Cabinet approved the unilateral termination of the 2001 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU 2001) on overlapping maritime claims on May 5, shifting the legal framework to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Mr Hun Manet’s remarks appeared to refer to the absence of a bilateral framework. Cambodia officially launched a compulsory conciliation process under UNCLOS on June 2, 2026, after Bangkok withdrew from the only existing bilateral mechanism governing the maritime agreement.
-Khmer Times-
