Anutin explains in detail the cancellation of MOU 44, emphasizing that it was done in the national interest and stating, "I know exactly what needs to be done."
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul reiterated in a post that the Thai government has canceled MOU 44 to resolve the overlapping boundary issue of Koh Kood. He affirmed that Cambodia is aware and is preparing to use mandatory compromise processes under international law, emphasizing that the action was taken in the best interest of the Thai people. He also dismissed rumors about reopening border crossings.
On May 9, 2026, at approximately 7:23 PM, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul posted on his personal Facebook page stating that he normally does not wish to publicize his work or create self-importance, because his duty as Prime Minister is to do everything, in every matter, in a way that benefits Thailand and his people.
I am currently in the Philippines attending the ASEAN Leaders' Summit, and the Philippine President, who is chairing the meeting, wanted to create a positive atmosphere. Therefore, he arranged a meeting with the Cambodian Prime Minister yesterday evening to de-escalate tensions before the summit began. Since we met in person, I took this opportunity to inform him directly that the Thai government has decided to cancel MOU 44. The Cambodian Prime Minister acknowledged this and expressed disappointment. Consequently, the Cambodian government has no choice but to proceed with the compulsory conciliation process under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) regarding maritime rights and benefits. Adhering to this convention aligns with the Thai government's wishes, as future discussions between the two countries will adhere to the same principles and provisions, since Cambodia only ratified the convention in early 2569.
For me, informing Cambodia of the Thai government's cancellation of MOU 44 during this meeting demonstrates that Cambodia has officially received Thailand's decision. Furthermore, Cambodia has informed Thailand of its future course of action and also announced this at the ASEAN Leaders' Summit. This leaves no doubt that Cambodia accepts Thailand's cancellation of MOU 44.
If this meeting had not taken place, the Thai government would have had to send a written notification to the Cambodian government, and that process would likely take at least another six months. Without MOU 44, there would be no longer a boundary line passing through Koh Kood to cause any suspicion or concern. My fellow citizens can rest assured that #KohKood belongs to Thailand.
Regarding other issues, such as border demarcation, negotiations at the JBC and GBC levels continue as usual. Both sides have requested more meetings and discussions with high-ranking officials from both countries. If the time is right, diplomatic relations can be gradually upgraded, as currently, only embassies are staffed, and services for Thai citizens there have been unavailable. Further discussions will be arranged until an agreement is reached. There was agreement on cracking down on call centers and scammers, with police forces from both countries cooperating to prosecute these criminals rigorously. I agreed, as this benefits Thailand and its people. #The issue of reopening border crossings was not discussed. Other areas of cooperation were also not raised. Both sides agreed that peace is what everyone desires. I informed them that achieving peace requires sincerity from both sides in resolving problems together and demonstrating tangible trust. #Avoiding military conflict as much as possible.
That's all there is to it. I've seen a lot of sensationalized and false news circulating on social media, fabricated with imagination to create division and hatred, even though both I and Minister Sihasak have already given detailed press conferences.
“I reiterate that the government will conduct all actions with prudence, transparency, and with the feelings of the people in mind. There is absolutely no other option. I have been involved in this situation since I was Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, and now I am Prime Minister for the second time. I know exactly what needs to be done and how to do it. Every step will consider the best interests of the country and its people, and will be based on international law and principles mutually acceptable to both sides. Please have confidence in your Prime Minister on this matter. See you in Bangkok. Greetings to everyone from Cebu, Philippines.”
Reference: Facebook: Anutin Charnvirakul
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