BREAKING: Hun Manet Announces UNCLOS Action Following Thai Withdrawal

BREAKING: Hun Manet Announces UNCLOS Action Following Thai Withdrawal

PHNOM PENH, May 5, 2026 — Cambodia has decided to pursue compulsory conciliation under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) to resolve its maritime dispute with Thailand, Prime Minister Hun Manet said on Tuesday, after Bangkok unilaterally withdrew from a long-standing bilateral agreement.

In a statement posted on his official social media page, Hun Manet said the move followed Thailand’s decision to exit the 2001 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU2001), which for more than two decades had served as the sole bilateral framework for managing overlapping maritime claims between the two countries.

The Cambodian leader described the withdrawal as a setback to cooperation, noting the MoU had reflected “mutual goodwill” and provided a foundation for peaceful dialogue.

“With the unilateral withdrawal, Cambodia is left with no choice but to rely on international law,” he said, adding that Phnom Penh would turn to mechanisms under UNCLOS, particularly compulsory conciliation, to seek a resolution.

Hun Manet stressed that the process is designed to facilitate peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law, expressing hope it would lead to a “just and lasting solution” that ensures stability and harmony between the two nations.

The development marks a significant shift from bilateral engagement to an international legal pathway in addressing the long-running maritime dispute. Thai authorities have not yet publicly responded to Cambodia’s latest move.