Thailand and Cambodia Head to UN Arbitration Over Maritime Dispute

Thailand is set to appoint conciliators to join a UN arbitration initiated by Cambodia to address their longstanding maritime boundary dispute. The conflict involves 26,000 square km in the Gulf of Thailand, rich in resources. Tensions have escalated following Cambodia's use of UN mediation.

Thailand will appoint two conciliators to participate in a seldom-used UN arbitration process initiated by Cambodia over a longstanding maritime dispute. Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow announced the decision on Friday.

This development follows Cambodia's initiation of a compulsory conciliation process under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), prompted by Thailand's move to unilaterally terminate a 2001 bilateral agreement. The discord centers on a 26,000 square km area in the Gulf of Thailand, potentially rich with $300 billion worth of natural gas and oil.

Sihasak emphasized, "Both sides should have addressed the issues bilaterally first," regarding Cambodia's decision to pursue international mediation. Despite past border clashes, including a truce in December, tensions remain high. Cambodia's use of compulsory conciliation, a method previously applied only by East Timor against Australia, could further strain relations.