Bangkok: Chaichanok Chidchob, Secretary-General of the Bhumjaithai Party, has declared his support for the annulment of the Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) established between Thailand and Cambodia in 2000 and 2001. He argues that these agreements do not serve Thailand's interests and raise concerns about potential conflicts of interest. He calls on the government to heed public sentiment on this issue.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chaichanok emphasized that the Bhumjaithai Party has been actively observing developments regarding the MOUs. Critics of the agreements argue that they negatively affect border issues, with Thailand currently experiencing territorial incursions, leading to perceptions of unfairness. Proponents of maintaining the MOUs argue that they are essential for sustaining international dialogue. Nonetheless, Mr. Chaichanok asserted that bilateral negotiations between Thailand and Cambodia could proceed without the MOUs.
The 2000 MOU focused on land boundary demarcation, a contentious area with ongoing disputes between the two nations. The 2001 MOU addressed the demarcation of maritime areas, which are resource-rich, particularly in natural gas. This period is considered an opportune moment to reconsider the MOUs, as Cambodia has frequently disregarded the agreements, with Thailand being the sole party striving to uphold them.
Concerns also exist about the government's trustworthiness and the perception that the MOUs might benefit specific families rather than the nations involved. Mr. Chaichanok advocates for the formation of a committee to investigate the matter thoroughly and propose a suitable resolution.
He further suggested that, if necessary, a new bilateral agreement should be developed to ensure clarity and robustness. He stressed that any final decision should reflect public opinion, proposing a referendum to ensure transparency and nationwide acceptance.