Cambodia has initiated a formal conciliation process under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) to resolve its maritime boundary dispute with Thailand in the Gulf of Thailand. Prime Minister Hun Manet revealed that official notifications have been dispatched to both Thailand and the United Nations Secretary-General, marking the commencement of this procedure. This step is aimed at protecting Cambodia’s sovereignty and maritime rights, all while complying with international law.
The Cambodian government has emphasized that the decision reflects its commitment to a peaceful resolution through dialogue, mediation, and expert consultation, rather than escalating tensions. Officials have reiterated Cambodia’s dedication to maintaining positive relations with Thailand, viewing the UNCLOS mechanism as an organized and internationally accepted framework for dispute resolution.
The core of the maritime dispute involves overlapping claims in certain sections of the Gulf of Thailand, with both nations asserting rights over specific offshore areas. The UNCLOS provides a legal pathway for addressing such disputes, including conciliation procedures managed by independent international panels.
Cambodia’s move to engage the UNCLOS framework highlights its strategy to pursue a structured approach to international maritime disagreements. By seeking a peaceful resolution, Cambodia underscores its intention to adhere to global norms while safeguarding its national interests. The conciliation procedure is a testament to both countries’ willingness to explore diplomatic means to settle their differences.