BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand has joined a UN arbitration process initiated by Cambodia to resolve a decades-long maritime border dispute in the Gulf of Thailand, simultaneously suspending all bilateral talks and closing land borders.
Thailand Confirms Joining UN Arbitration
Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow announced that Thailand will follow the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea process chosen by Cambodia and will dispatch two international legal experts.
He emphasized that the country is participating “on its own terms” and was not “dragged” into the process, but rather made a conscious decision.
Bilateral Talks Halted, Border Crossings Remain Closed
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated that all other bilateral discussions with Cambodia, including those concerning land borders, will be suspended until further notice.
He added: “We will use UNCLOS, which means there will be no more talks… or other forms of cooperation from now on.”
Cambodia Wanted Compulsory Arbitration
Cambodia had publicly announced its pursuit of a compulsory arbitration process under UNCLOS before Thailand was officially notified.
Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn stated that bilateral efforts had been exhausted and expressed hope that Thailand would participate in the process “in good faith.”
What’s at Stake
Both countries lay claim to approximately 26,000 square kilometers in the Gulf of Thailand, estimated to hold nearly 12 trillion cubic feet of natural gas and significant oil reserves.
The estimated value of these resources is around $300 billion, highlighting the immense importance of the dispute for both nations.
Volatile History and Current Peace Status
Last year, two rounds of border violence resulted in nearly 150 deaths and the displacement of at least 300,000 people.
While a ceasefire from December has held, tensions remain high, influencing Cambodia’s decision to pursue the UN route.
Arbitration Process and Prospects
The UN process involves a five-member panel that issues non-binding recommendations; East Timor previously used this path against Australia to settle a dispute in just under two years.
Sihasak pointed out that Thailand had initially proposed bilateral talks, asking, “Why don’t we give talks a chance? Six months or so,” adding that no informal or formal discussions with Cambodian counterparts have occurred since June 2nd.