Assistant Minister Warns Against Cancelling MOU44, Citing Sovereignty and Credibility Risks.

Bangkok: People are unable to sign a petition to cancel MOU44, as it is argued that such action would result in negative consequences. Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Rasm Chaleechan, has asserted that since individuals have already signed their names, the Thailand-Cambodia Memorandum of Understanding 2001, known as MOU44, cannot be revoked. He outlined that annulling the MOU would harm sovereignty and diminish the country's credibility. According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Rasm elaborated on the situation regarding calls to cancel MOU44, a key framework for managing overlapping continental shelf claims between Thailand and Cambodia. He explained that MOU44 is an international treaty, and current laws do not allow citizens to sign for its cancellation. For those wishing to see the MOU annulled, he suggested supporting a political party that advocates for its cancellation through democratic and electoral processes. Mr. Rasm further clarified that while government termination of MOU44 is possible, it requires mutual consent from both parties involved. Unilateral termination, without acceptance from Cambodia, would still bind both nations to existing obligations. Non-compliance could lead to international legal disputes and damage the terminating country's credibility, affecting future negotiations, economic relations, trade, and investment opportunities, ultimately impacting national development. He stressed that cancelling MOU44 would not resolve ongoing issues, as Cambodia's territorial claims would remain unchanged, potentially escalating sovereignty disputes. Moreover, valuable underwater resources could not be harnessed without prior negotiations, as stipulated by international law. Mr. Rasm highlighted that successive Thai governments, including the cabinet of General Prayut Chan-o-cha, have recognized the advantages of MOU44, choosing to maintain it for the country's benefit in terms of sovereignty and prosperity. Mr. Rasm concluded by emphasizing that any negotiation outcomes under MOU44 must re ceive parliamentary approval, reflecting the collective will of the entire nation through democratic representation. This process ensures that the issue is addressed at a national level, rather than being driven by a select few individuals.