Thailand proposes UNCLOS-based negotiations with Cambodia　

Thailand has proposed shifting negotiations with Cambodia regarding overlapping maritime claims to a framework under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), following a cabinet decision to abrogate a 2001 memorandum of understanding between the two nations, according to a report from Xinhua News Agency.

Thai government spokeswoman Ratchada Thanadirek told reporters on May 5 that the cabinet resolved to terminate the memorandum concerning the delimitation of maritime boundaries. She characterized the move not as a severance of ties or a halt to dialogue, but rather as an "adjustment" to the cooperative framework. Thailand will continue discussions with Cambodia, but will transition to mechanisms under UNCLOS that are clearer, more comprehensive and systematic, aiming for greater efficiency in resolving maritime zone issues, she said.

Ratchada noted that Thailand has already conveyed the decision to Cambodia through informal channels and will subsequently issue a formal notification. Also, Thailand has proposed that both sides conduct negotiations within the UNCLOS framework. The Thai government is currently preparing to establish a technical and legal committee to systematically advance work under this new framework.

The policy shift followed an announcement by Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on April 23, stating his intention to revoke the memorandum signed during the administration of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. At the time, Anutin said that no prior notification to Cambodia was required, and that the cabinet would expedite deliberation of the matter.

In response, Cambodia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation issued a statement on April 24, expressing "deep regret" over Thailand's unilateral withdrawal from the 2001 memorandum regarding the overlapping maritime areas.