Cambodia and Thailand have embarked on a United Nations-supported conciliation process to address their protracted maritime boundary dispute in the Gulf of Thailand. The initiative, under the auspices of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), saw both countries’ foreign ministers present their initial statements as the talks commenced.
The core of Cambodia’s approach is to forge an agreement that would establish a single maritime boundary with Thailand. Alternatively, Phnom Penh has suggested a joint development arrangement that would see both nations share resources in the contested region. In contrast, Thailand maintains that the discussions should center exclusively on maritime boundary delimitation, affirming its commitment to engage in the process sincerely. Historically, Bangkok had preferred to resolve the issue through direct bilateral negotiations.
The area under dispute, spanning approximately 26,000 square kilometers, has been a point of contention for over 25 years. It is thought to be rich in natural resources, including substantial reserves of oil and natural gas, which heightens the economic stakes of the disagreement. A 2001 agreement had initially provided a framework for the joint development of these resources, but this arrangement was terminated by Thailand in May, following heightened tensions spurred by deadly border clashes between the two countries.
Cambodia, seeking to move forward, initiated the compulsory conciliation process under UNCLOS in June. While the independent panel involved in this process can offer recommendations, it is important to note that its conclusions are not legally binding on either nation. This new phase in the dialogue underscores the ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve a complex and economically significant dispute.