The ad-hoc Senate committee studying the pros and cons of the 2000 and 2001 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) on border demarcation with Cambodia has yet to reach a conclusion on whether the two agreements should be revoked, Senator Nophadol In-na said.
Mr Nophadol explained on Monday that the panel’s decision, whether to maintain, amend or nullify the MoUs could have significant implications for Thai-Cambodian relations. Therefore, the committee requires more time to examine the complex and extensive information before making any recommendations.
The committee has extended its work for another 90 days and plans to release as much information as possible to ensure the public understands both the advantages and drawbacks of the two MoUs, he added. The government intends to hold a national referendum on the matter.
When asked whether the findings could influence the referendum questions, Mr Nophadol said that the decision rests with the government but stressed that the committee’s report will provide sufficient information to help voters make an informed choice.
He also welcomed the agreement signed by Thailand and Cambodia in Malaysia on Sunday, describing it as a positive step toward restoring peace. Mr Nophadol said it was unlikely Cambodia would breach the accord, as the signing was witnessed by the United States and several Asean nations.
He clarified that the referendum outcome will not affect the new agreement, which serves only as a framework for cooperation.
The pact was signed by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet during a regional summit in Malaysia.
Mr Anutin said peace can only be achieved if Cambodia meets four conditions: withdrawing troops, removing land mines, suppressing cyber-scam operations, and resettling Cambodian nationals encroaching on Thai territory.
Pol Gen Sawat Tasana, chairman of the Senate Committee on Military and National Security, urged the government to verify whether Cambodia has indeed withdrawn heavy weapons from border areas. Some footage of the withdrawal was livestreamed on Monday on Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen’s Facebook page.
He added that Thailand should consider releasing 18 Cambodian prisoners of war only after Phnom Penh fully complies with all agreed terms.
Meanwhile, Senator Decha Nutalai noted that the 2000 MoU states both sides must maintain “friendly and amicable relations”. Given the current strained situation, he argued, the MoU may already be legally void.