Thailand Sets Up a Date to Talk with Cambodia on the Gulf Overlapping Claims

• 12 January 2024
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In a strategic move to address the overlapping claims in the Gulf of Thailand, Thailand, and Cambodia are slated to commence discussions on 7 February 2024. This 26,000-square-kilometre area, known for its abundant energy resources, has been a point of contention between the two nations. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet is scheduled to visit Thailand for these crucial talks, according to Pattayamail on 11 January 2024.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara underscored the significance of the upcoming discussions, stating that “the outcomes would shape the actions of relevant ministries and agencies.”

Pichai Naripthaphan, advisor to the Thai Prime Minister, indicated that “the focus of the talks would be on collaborative energy resource utilization rather than delving into the maritime border dispute.”

The urgency of these discussions arises from the time required for exploring and drilling energy resources, estimated to be between 2 and 7 years. Thailand, leveraging its existing natural gas infrastructure, is keen to finalize the talks before the current government’s tenure concludes, aligning with Cambodia’s interests for mutual benefits.

While a memorandum of understanding signed in 2001 between the two countries envisioned joint development in parts of the overlapping claim area (OCA) and the delineation of a maritime border, progress has been hindered by disputes over the maritime boundary.

Experts recommend a pragmatic approach, emphasizing joint development of energy resources to reduce dependence on imported liquefied natural gas. The suggestion includes temporarily setting aside the maritime dispute to foster cordial bilateral relations. In response, the Thai government is considering the formation of a new joint technical committee to facilitate these discussions. (Read More)

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