Thailand, Cambodia continue maritime talks to settle boundary claims

Thailand and Cambodia continued a second round of maritime conciliation talks under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in The Hague on Thursday, seeking to settle their lingering maritime boundary claims, Thai Inquirer reported.

The closed-door meetings at the Permanent Court of Arbitration, running through Oct. 18, is focued on technical and legal issues, with both sides presenting evidence and explaining the principles behind their maritime boundary claims.

Cambodia is seeking a comprehensive maritime boundary agreement with Thailand under international law, while remaining open to joint development and equitable resource sharing, according to Cambodian media.

It is seeking to conclude a treaty with Thailand, with the assistance of the Conciliation Commission and in accordance with international law, to establish a single, comprehensive maritime boundary between the two countries, the Khemr Times reported.

If the two countries cannot agree on maritime delimitation or joint development, Cambodia has proposed that the Commission prepare a report with recommendations for both sides to use as a basis for future negotiations, in accordance with UNCLOS obligations.

Thailand’s delegation is led by Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilprapunt. Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn is leading that country's delegation. Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow is due to join Oct.17.

The first round of talks in Singapore from Sept. 14 - 16 produced an agreement on the commission’s terms of appointment and procedural rules. Both sides presented their positions and held separate discussions with the commission, but they did not announce a maritime boundary settlement.