Politics
Thailand Maintains Stance on Maritime Border Negotiations with Cambodia
Deputy Prime Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow has stated that Thailand will prioritize maritime boundary demarcation with Cambodia before engaging in joint resource development talks.
On September 18, 2026, Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sihasak Phuangketkeow, reiterated the nation's official position regarding maritime disputes with Cambodia. Speaking at Government House, Sihasak emphasized that Thailand remains committed to the framework of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
According to reports from Khaosod English, the government’s current priority is to achieve a clear demarcation of the maritime boundary between the two countries. Sihasak clarified that discussions regarding joint resource development or the sharing of potential benefits in the overlapping areas cannot proceed until this boundary issue is formally settled. This announcement follows the inaugural meeting of the Compulsory Conciliation Commission, which operates under the UNCLOS framework.
For residents and travelers, this diplomatic stance underscores that the status of potential energy or resource projects in the Gulf of Thailand remains in a state of negotiation. While this policy does not currently impact daily travel or tourism, it highlights a significant geopolitical focus for the Thai administration. It remains to be confirmed how the Compulsory Conciliation Commission will facilitate future progress and whether both nations can reach a consensus on the boundary lines in the coming months. Observers should monitor official government updates for any shifts in the negotiation timeline.
