Bangkok: The Royal Thai Navy is gearing up to dispatch its hydrographic officers as part of the Joint Technical Committee (JTC) to engage in negotiations with Cambodia over maritime claim areas. Admiral Jirapol Wongwit, the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Navy, emphasized the need for both technical experts and legal professionals in these discussions and announced plans to hold a public seminar on December 3 to elucidate the negotiation process and international maritime laws. According to Thai News Agency, Admiral Wongwit stated after the Royal Thai Navy's 118th anniversary ceremony that he respects the views of his predecessors regarding MOU 44 and the current social discourse around it. He noted that even retired commanders remain invested in the Navy's continuous development. He assured that the Navy has effectively managed the maritime borders declared by Thailand without conflict, thanks to mutual understanding with neighboring countries. The Royal Thai Navy, identified as a technical agency wit h expertise in maritime boundaries, is organizing a seminar to discuss maritime boundaries, agreements, and conflicts. This event will be open to the public, aiming to provide insights into negotiation processes, the workings of the International Court of Justice related to maritime law, and various international agreement scenarios. In terms of the JTC, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, has indicated that relevant agencies, including the Royal Thai Navy's Hydrographic Department, should be involved. Admiral Wongwit confirmed the Navy's readiness to support the JTC, emphasizing the importance of thoroughly understanding maritime boundary issues. He highlighted that technical expertise would come from the Hydrographic Department, while legal matters would fall under the Office of the Judge Advocate General. Addressing concerns about the JTC's independence, Admiral Wongwit explained that the working process's integrity would rely on the appropriate explanation of legal a nd technical matters. He noted that legal experts would address potential loopholes, while technical officers would assist as needed, ensuring adherence to relevant rules and conventions during negotiations.
