Thai Times

Covering the Thai Renaissance
Thursday, Jul 24, 2025

Paetongtarn Clarifies Thailand's Sovereignty Over Ko Kut

Emphasizes the Island's Status and Maritime Agreement with Cambodia
Paetongtarn has reassured the public about Ko Kut’s status as Thai territory, addressing misunderstandings possibly arising within Thailand's borders.

She also delved into 'MOU44', the framework governing maritime negotiations with Cambodia, affirming it remains valid and cannot be changed unilaterally without mutual consent.

Paetongtarn clarified that MOU44 does not involve Ko Kut since Cambodia’s territorial maps do not include the island.

Instead, MOU44 is focused on maritime areas with contradictory boundary interpretations between the two nations.

The Prime Minister mentioned that a working committee would address these maritime boundary discussions, pointing out that while Cambodia has its committee ready, Thailand's committee needs restructuring due to its recent government change.

She dispelled concerns about MOU44 implying Thailand's acceptance of Cambodia's claims, explaining that such agreements facilitate cooperative dialogues over differing perspectives.

Established following respective boundary declarations in the 1970s, MOU44 is crucial for discussions.

Paetongtarn refuted claims of a past revocation of MOU44, emphasizing that cancellation requires joint consent and parliamentary approval, citing legal stipulations.

She advocated for the potential value of MOU44 in maintaining peaceful negotiations and cautioned against unilateral cancellation, which could provoke legal challenges from Cambodia without any beneficiaries.

Recognizing the political sensitivity of the issue, she urged for a balanced approach that does not jeopardize international relations, highlighting coalition support for ongoing work under MOU44.

She assured the public of her dedication to protecting Thailand's interests and focusing on equitable resource distribution between Thailand and Cambodia.

On potential diplomatic aids, she considered positive relations, like those of former PM Thaksin Shinawatra with Cambodia, could enhance dialogue, yet she stressed the importance of committee-managed national interests to ensure fair and informed decisions.

Paetongtarn concluded by affirming the government's commitment to safeguarding Thailand's territory and prioritizing the welfare of its citizens, stressing her dedication to national interests as a representative of Thailand.
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