Thailand holds edge in sea spat: senator

ITLOS execs to help with maritime rift

PUBLISHED : 18 Jun 2026 at 04:24

Thailand holds a strong advantage over Cambodia in the maritime dispute process under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos), says Senator Nophadol In-na.

He cited the appointment of two former presidents of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) to assist Thailand's case.

Speaking at parliament on Wednesday, Mr Nophadol, who chairs the Senate's Foreign Affairs Advisory Committee, welcomed the cabinet's decision to appoint Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow to lead Thailand's delegation in the compulsory conciliation process.

He said the delegation possesses extensive diplomatic and legal expertise and is well prepared to work together throughout the proceedings.

The senator also expressed confidence in Thailand's nomination of South African international law expert Judge Albert Hoffmann and German jurist Judge Rüdiger Wolfrum as conciliators, adding both possess the required expertise and experience, having previously served as ITLOS presidents.

One of the judges also took part in the compulsory conciliation case between Timor-Leste and Australia, a landmark maritime dispute in which Timor-Leste ultimately secured a favourable outcome.

He said Timor-Leste's decision to appoint the judge reflected his outstanding reputation and expertise.

Mr Nophadol said Thailand would not be disadvantaged in the proceedings and could even hold a stronger position. All conciliators involved are highly respected figures with considerable international credibility and can be trusted to adhere strictly to Unclos rules.

Asked about Cambodia's proposal to discuss benefit-sharing arrangements before maritime boundaries are formally established, he said Thailand would likely oppose the plan because it would be impossible to determine the extent of any overlapping claims without clearly defined boundaries.

Mr Nophadol said the committee would respond promptly to misinformation or false statements from foreign sources that could damage the reputation of Thailand's legislative bodies, particularly the Senate.

He said the dispute could be resolved through international legal mechanisms, adding the 2001 MoU failed because Cambodia's claimed boundaries were not established in line with international principles.