Bangkok: Prime Minister Srisaket Sihasak briefed ambassadors from 58 countries on Thailand's foreign policy situation and revealed plans to propose the cancellation of MOU 44 to the Cabinet on May 5th. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sihasak Phuangketkaew, also attended the briefing, addressing a delegation of 84 diplomats from 58 countries and 8 international organizations on the country's foreign affairs.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sihasak held a press conference following the diplomatic briefing, sharing insights from his recent visit to Myanmar, where he emphasized the importance of cooperation with Myanmar on border issues, combating online scams, transnational crime, drug trafficking, and pollution. He stressed the necessity for trilateral cooperation between Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos and highlighted the significance of reopening the Mae Sot-Myawaddy border crossing for trade enhancement. Despite some countries not recognizing Myanmar's elections, Thailand expressed hopes for peace and reconciliation in Myanmar.
Mr. Sihasak also outlined four agreements with Myanmar, including welcoming the release of prisoners, supporting Myanmar's peace process, providing humanitarian assistance, and inquiring about Aung San Suu Kyi's well-being. Discussions covered energy security collaboration, with Thailand exploring further gas wells in Myanmar.
Additionally, Mr. Wang Yi's visit to Thailand was discussed, reinforcing the Thai-Chinese comprehensive strategic partnership on the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations. The visit led to a five-year action plan focusing on economic cooperation in digital and green economies, innovation, and human resource development. China expressed readiness to facilitate dialogue between Thailand and Cambodia.
Mr. Prak Sokhonn, Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, was informed about Thailand's intention to cancel the 2001 MOU, aiming for negotiations under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Despite the cancellation, Thailand seeks a positive negotiation approach with Cambodia, focusing on border demarcation and building mutual trust.
During the upcoming ASEAN meeting in the Philippines, Thailand plans to advance trust-building proposals with Cambodia. The Philippines has shown willingness to mediate a trilateral meeting, contingent on constructive discussions and Cambodia's response.