Bangkok: A government spokesman has disclosed that Deputy Prime Minister Bowornsak Uwanno recently convened a meeting with security officials to deliberate on the potential cancellation of Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) 43-44. A resolution regarding the matter is anticipated within the next one to two months.
According to Thai News Agency, Government Spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat confirmed that the meeting was chaired by Bowornsak Uwanno and included prominent figures such as the commanders of armed forces, representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Chaichanok Chidchob, the Minister of Digital Economy and Society. This gathering marked the initial discussion concerning the procedures related to MOUs 43-44, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of either enforcing or terminating the agreements.
Participants in the meeting engaged in dialogue with military representatives to understand the MOUs' content and practical implications. Furthermore, discussions included insights from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as a preparatory guide for future negotiations with Cambodia. However, certain aspects requiring further practical refinement were also identified.
Siripong mentioned, "Today is the first meeting. I think we will reach a conclusion within one to two months on how to proceed with MOU 43-44." He also noted that the meeting did not address the Thai-Cambodian border situation, as no concerns were raised by security officials.
Additionally, Siripong revealed the current uncertainty regarding U.S. President Donald Trump's attendance at the upcoming ASEAN Summit in Malaysia, which could facilitate the signing of the Freedom of Information Agreement between Thailand and Cambodia. Despite inquiries made and discussions held by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on this topic, there remains no official confirmation. Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is set to attend the ASEAN Summit in Malaysia from October 25-28, followed by the APEC meeting on October 29, with an anticipated dialogue with approximately 10 countries, demonstrating keen international interest.
Siripong further mentioned inquiries about the potential necessity of talks with the United States. Although there is no current confirmation, he stressed that any agreement with Cambodia would hinge on Cambodia's compliance with all four points proposed by Thailand before formal discussions commence.