Abhisit Dismisses Concerns Over Cancellation of 2001 MOU

Bangkok: Abhisit Vejjajiva, a party-list MP and leader of the Democrat Party, has stated that the decision to cancel the 2001 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is not problematic, as it was not actively utilized. He emphasized the importance of rigorous legal procedures and monitoring Cambodia's actions. According to Thai News Agency, Abhisit addressed the National Security Council's (NSC) decision to revoke the MOU, highlighting that the party has consistently argued its lack of practical use and initial map-related issues. He noted that while continuing with the MOU could present challenges, its revocation is not an issue in principle, provided that legal protocols are adhered to and developments on the Cambodian side are closely observed. He reiterated that since the election, the party has been clear about the possibility of revoking the 2001 MOU. In response to inquiries about potential future issues stemming from Thailand and Cambodia's accession to the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, Abhisit remarked that legal application is a universal principle. He suggested that if negotiations are necessary, a new agreement should be established, as the current one is ineffective due to various challenges. When questioned about the potential benefits of the MOU's cancellation, Abhisit indicated that the outcome depends on the careful execution of the process in accordance with the law, while also considering Cambodia's actions.