Bangkok: The Energy Committee has invited relevant agencies to discuss overlapping areas between Thailand and Cambodia, with a focus on sharing benefits and opposing the termination of private concessions. The committee, led by Vice Chairman Mr. Supachai Chaisaj, supports the establishment of a Joint Technical Committee (JTC) to continue discussions, recommending the inclusion of energy experts. According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Supachai revealed that the committee meeting involved agencies such as the Treaty Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Department of Mineral Fuels, Ministry of Energy, Royal Thai Navy, and the Office of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defense. These agencies were asked to provide updates on the joint development area, with the Treaty Department confirming that the framework of MOU 44 will guide negotiations. The committee received information that both countries claim overlapping rights in the upper area, necessitating negotiations and resource division in the lower a rea. Thailand is confident in using information aligned with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) for negotiations with Cambodia. Regarding private sector concessions, the committee is wary of cancellations that could lead to compensations paid through taxes. Mr. Supachote also discussed the 25-year time frame for resource utilization, based on the Malaysia framework, and raised questions about the necessity of these resources as the country shifts towards clean energy. Mr. Supachai affirmed the need for a JTC, describing it as a crucial step in negotiations and emphasizing the importance of its composition, which should include representatives for borders, resources, and national integrity. He suggested more energy experts be part of the JTC to ensure a comprehensive approach. He also addressed concerns about political interference in the JTC, urging political figures to prioritize national interests and maintain neutrality. The clarity on this issue is expected once the JTC commit tee members are announced. On whether the energy minister should be part of the JTC, Mr. Supachai suggested that the minister should be involved in negotiations concerning border issues and resources. The committee discussed MOU 44's cancellation, recognizing it as a clear negotiation framework but acknowledging the need for review due to changes over the past 20 years. Regarding the ongoing border discussions, Mr. Supachai reiterated the importance of entering negotiations with a focus on benefits and borders. He clarified that the map attached to MOU 44 serves as an acknowledgment of reference lines without legal force, as explained by the Treaty Department.
