PUBLISHED: 27 Jan 2025 at 18: 55
A new Joint Technical Committee (JTC) has not yet been formed to negotiate with Cambodia on the maritime dispute as the government cannot act without parliament’s consent,Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsasaid on Monday.
Mr. Maris responded to a question posed by Senator Yukol Chanawatpanya regarding the 26, 000-kilometer clashing sea say place in the Gulf of Thailand off the coast of Trat during a Senate program presided over by deputy Senate speech Gen Kriangkrai Srirak on Monday.  ,
Mr. Maris claimed that the government has not yet instituted a new JTC, which would be the primary negotiation process and resolve the long-standing conflict.
In the presence of this commission, the government is prepared to hear views from all businesses. Feedback and ideas from Senate members may be incorporated in Thailand’s guidelines for negotiations, aiming for the government’s and people’s maximum advantage.
” The state will deal with the Thai government using international rules and other applicable legal frameworks.”
MoU 44′ healthy’
” The dialogue construction follows the principles of the 2001 Thai-Cambodian Document of Understanding]MoU 44], aligned with past governments ‘ directions since its drafting,” said Mr Maris.
The Foreign Minister said the MoU 44 is regarded as a healthy and appropriate resource to protect national interests regarding protection, sea boundaries, and the business while ensuring independence and regional benefits are thoroughly protected.  ,
In addressing the maritime issue, he emphasized that the government has abided by three guiding principles: public support, parliamentary support, and unrestricted compliance with applicable and international legal frameworks.  ,
Parliament’s consent
He assured the public that no action will be taken without the consent of the legislature, and that any negotiations would strictly adhere to these principles.
He argued that MoU 44 does not in any way obligate Thailand to accept Cambodia’s territorial claims or interfere with Koh Kut’s sovereignty.
He continued, adding that MoU 44’s fundamental clause requires that discussions on boundary demarcation and joint development of the area must take place at the same time.
Before a binding decision is made, the government will need to speak with parliament and request that it be taken into account.
Every action will need the parliamentary’s approval. A seminar will be held by the government to foster dialogue and gather perspectives from all sectors. He continued,” The government and relevant House committees will jointly organize the next seminar today.