People’s Party (PP) MP Piyarat Chongthep, spokesman for the extraordinary committee reviewing MoU 43 (2000) and MoU 44 (2001) concerning border demarcation with Cambodia, said the committee has yet to reach a conclusion on whether to cancel the agreements.
Opinions within the committee are split on MoU 43 — with one side favouring amendments, while the other supports cancellation. However, no consensus has been reached, Mr Piyarat said.
As for MoU 44, some members want to retain it while others call for its cancellation, he said, adding further meetings are required. Mr Piyarat said cancellation is a difficult choice, as any repeal would require clear public communication while certain information remains classified.
On whether the review of both documents could lead to a public referendum, Mr Piyarat said the possibility can be considered once the study of MoU 44 is complete. If a referendum is held, the main challenge will be how to provide the public with clear information without compromising national interests, so that voters can make an informed decision.
He said if it is agreed that the MoUs can serve as a negotiation framework, they could remain in place until a new and improved framework is established.
“For example, if we decide the 1:200,000-scale map mentioned in MoU 43 is not reliable, then what should the new proposal be?” Mr Piyarat said.
He added that allowing the use of alternative map scales could be part of an open negotiation framework.
Details from the Treaties Department, armed forces, and other state agencies will be compiled before the committee pens its full report, which is expected by early December.
“The committee must first clarify what damage cancellation might cause — or what benefits it might bring — before deciding how to communicate this to the public,” he said. “Our biggest concern is ensuring the public receives comprehensive information.”