Cambodia ‘playing the victim’, Thailand tells global mediators

Thailand has branded Cambodia as playing the victim in a maritime dispute, as the neighboring nations presented their cases before international mediators at the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in Singapore. The hearing follows two years of deadly border clashes and Thailand's unilateral exit from a framework agreement aimed at resolving overlapping maritime claims.

Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow claimed Cambodia sought to vilify Thailand through false narratives, distortion of facts, and unfounded accusations, portraying itself as a victim with a sense of self-righteousness. The 2001 MoU, which covers a 27,000 square kilometer maritime territory, has been a source of tension between the two Southeast Asian countries for over two decades.

Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that Thailand's withdrawal from the framework agreement was not linked to the border clashes, but rather aimed to protect Cambodia's sovereignty and maritime rights. Cambodia hopes to reach a single, all-encompassing maritime boundary agreement or agree to jointly develop and share resources until a boundary is determined.

The PCA, established in 1899, is the world's oldest international dispute-resolution body, and its recommendations are not legally binding, with a one-year timeline for a decision.