Sihsakdi Awaits Cambodia Talks Under UNCLOS Framework Instead of MOU 44; Explains Selection of General Somsak as JBC Chairman
Thailand is abandoning the 2001 border MOU with Cambodia in favor of UNCLOS negotiations, with Deputy PM Sihsakdi confirming a new Joint Border Commission framework under General Somsak's leadership to better coordinate demarcation efforts.
At 12:45 p.m. on May 19, 2025, at Government House, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihsakdi Pongketkao provided an update on the cancellation of the 2001 MOU, stating that Cambodia has been notified and future discussions will proceed under the UNCLOS convention framework regarding how the two countries will meet. When asked when the Joint Border Commission (JBC) membership will be submitted to the Cabinet meeting, Sihsakdi said it should happen soon since the JBC chairman has already been selected. Regarding why General Somsak Rungsita was chosen as JBC chairman, Sihsakdi explained that this selection will help coordinate work between the JBC, which deals with border demarcation issues, and the work within the GBC and RBC frameworks to ensure better coordination and collaboration. When asked if this was Sihsakdi's own preference, he responded that he was considering the nature of the upcoming work, noting that it would not be merely a technical matter.
