Bangkok: The government has announced the cancellation of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) 44, citing its ineffectiveness and contribution to maritime boundary disputes between Thailand and Cambodia over the past 25 years. The decision follows a review by the National Security Council (NSC), which presented three main reasons for the termination of the agreement.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, outlined that MOU 44 was initially established to facilitate the joint management of maritime resources between the two nations. However, over the last two decades, only five meetings were held under this framework, none of which resulted in a favorable outcome for either party. Instead, these meetings have contributed to disputes over maritime boundaries, further complicating the relationship between Thailand and Cambodia.
The government's decision to cancel MOU 44 aims to end the stalled negotiations and encourage a fresh start. If Cambodia remains interested in benefiting from the joint development of underwater resources with Thailand, they are urged to communicate their intentions. This would allow both countries to establish a new and practical negotiation framework that avoids past boundary disputes.
The 25-year-long conflict sparked by MOU 44 has hindered the progress of negotiations and the achievement of their objectives. The government emphasizes that resolving maritime boundary issues is a prerequisite for successful joint development and management of marine resources. A new framework rooted in sincerity and equitable resource sharing is deemed essential for future negotiations.
The failure of MOU 44 to meet its goals over its 25-year duration signifies its inability to achieve the desired outcomes. Its continued existence has fostered suspicion and conflict between Thailand and Cambodia. Therefore, the government considers it necessary to terminate the MOU and establish a new negotiation framework to mitigate conflict and enhance resource utilization. The NSC plans to carry out the necessary legal procedures and submit the proposal for Cabinet approval promptly.