The Hague:The second meeting of the Conciliation Commission under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) with Cambodia and Thailand convened at the Peace Palace, headquarters of the Permanent Court of Arbitration and the International Court of Justice, in The Hague, Netherlands. The first day of discussions concluded on the afternoon of October 14.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the Cambodian delegation was led by Deputy Prime Minister PRAK Sokhonn, who also serves as the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, while the Thai delegation was headed by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow. The meeting was chaired by Ms. Katrina Cooper, President of the Conciliation Commission, with the Permanent Court of Arbitration acting as the Registry.
During prior remarks in Singapore, Deputy Prime Minister PRAK Sokhonn emphasized Cambodia's goal of achieving a mutually beneficial solution that enhances regional peace and cooperation. The objective is to negotiate a treaty with Thailand to establish a comprehensive maritime boundary, adhering to international law, with the Commission's support.
Cambodia has also proposed an alternative plan to agree on joint development and equitable resource sharing while a final boundary agreement is pending. If no resolution is reached on maritime delimitation or joint development, Cambodia has requested that the Commission compile a report with recommendations to guide future negotiations, in line with their obligations under UNCLOS.