Cambodia warns Thailand against quitting maritime MoU 44

Cambodia has warned that any move by Thailand to withdraw from the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on maritime boundaries and resource-sharing, signed by both countries in 2001, would undermine years of mutual cooperation and trust.

In a statement issued yesterday, Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said the agreement reflects the “genuine political will” and shared bilateral commitment to pursue a mutually acceptable framework for managing their overlapping maritime claims.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s policy statement, to be delivered in parliament today, indicates that the government will expedite a study on the possible cancellation of the 2001 MoU, known locally as MoU 44.

The Cambodian ministry stressed that the MoU was designed not only to support joint resource development but also to advance maritime boundary delimitation in line with international law, ensuring benefits for both sides.

The ministry said the MoU embodies goodwill and a shared vision of a maritime boundary defined by “friendship, cooperation and shared prosperity.” Under its terms, the agreement remains in force until its objectives are fully achieved.

Cambodia cautioned that a unilateral withdrawal by Thailand would mark a departure from the cooperative spirit underpinning the deal.

“Therefore, it would be deeply regrettable if Thailand were to unilaterally withdraw from the MoU of 2001,” the statement noted, warning that such a move could disrupt ongoing efforts to resolve overlapping claims and develop maritime resources jointly.

Reaffirming its stance, Cambodia said it remains committed to both the letter and spirit of the agreement, as well as to the principles of goodwill and good faith that guided its conclusion in 2001.