The Thai Cabinet may not approve participation in the Joint Technical Committee with Cambodia due to scheduling conflicts among high-ranking officials. Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai highlighted the implications of the Prime Minister’s recent engagements on Cabinet considerations. The committee aims to address overlapping territorial claims in the Gulf of Thailand, based on a 2001 memorandum, which Minister Phumtham stated does not necessitate cancellation amid nationalist calls.
The establishment of a Joint Technical Committee (JTC) between Thailand and Cambodia may not be approved during the upcoming Cabinet meeting, as indicated by Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. He stated that due to his prior commitment to the ASEAN Plus Defence Ministerial Meeting in Laos on Tuesday, alongside Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s return from the APEC summit, it is improbable that the Cabinet will advance the proposal put forth by the Foreign Ministry for Thai candidates to join the JTC. The JTC aims to discuss matters concerning overlapping territorial claims in the Gulf of Thailand, in alignment with a memorandum of understanding (MoU) established between the two nations in 2001. Furthermore, in response to nationalist groups advocating for the annulment of the MoU, Minister Phumtham clarified that there is no necessity for cancellation, as the MoU merely documents the claims of both parties without constituting a definitive agreement.
The Joint Technical Committee between Thailand and Cambodia was proposed as a means to engage in essential discussions regarding overlapping territorial claims in the Gulf of Thailand. The Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2001 provides the framework for these discussions. However, the present government dynamics, particularly with the Prime Minister’s recent travels and other commitments, may impede the timely setup of this committee. This scenario exemplifies the delicate balance of international relations and domestic priorities that often shapes government decisions.
In conclusion, the potential formation of a Joint Technical Committee between Thailand and Cambodia faces uncertainty due to scheduling conflicts for key government officials. Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has emphasized that the memorandum from 2001 does not require cancellation, underscoring its nature as a record of claims rather than a binding agreement. As these developments unfold, the government’s approach to territorial discussions remains contingent on balancing immediate obligations and diplomatic engagements.
Original Source: www.nationthailand.com
