Bangkok: The Prime Minister has confirmed that Koh Kood belongs to Thailand and emphasized that MOU 44 with Cambodia will remain intact to protect the interests of Thai citizens. This announcement comes as a response to growing concerns about the status of the memorandum of understanding and its implications for the maritime borders between Thailand and Cambodia. According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra recently convened with senior leaders of the coalition parties to assess the progress of governmental tasks across various ministries. The meeting aimed to address and provide solutions for challenges faced by each ministry. Key attendees included Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, and other prominent cabinet members. Ms. Paethongtarn clarified that Koh Kood, historically recognized as Thai territory, remains undisputed, aligning with the terms established by the French treaty. She asserted that the Thai government would not relinquish any part of its land. The Prime Minister reiterated that MOU 44, concerning negotiations on overlapping maritime areas, remains valid and cannot be terminated unilaterally by Thailand, as it is an international agreement. The Prime Minister further explained that the MOU does not encompass Koh Kood, as the line delineating the maritime boundary with Cambodia does not include the island. Discussions under the MOU pertain to maritime boundaries and require bilateral negotiations. The Thai government is in the process of forming a committee to engage in these discussions, ensuring continuity from previous administrations. Addressing misconceptions, Ms. Paethongtarn emphasized that the continuation of MOU 44 does not indicate acceptance of Cambodia's maritime boundary claims. Historical records show that both countries had differing perceptions of maritime boundaries since the early 1970s, necessitating ongoing dialogue. The Prime Minister assured that Koh Kood remains outside these negotiations, alleviating public concerns. Reports suggesting a previous cabinet resolution to annul MOU 44 were dismissed by the Prime Minister, who confirmed that no such resolution exists. She explained that any decision to cancel the agreement must involve parliamentary approval in both nations, which has not occurred in past administrations. The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of maintaining diplomatic relations and avoiding international disputes. She stressed the significance of peaceful negotiations and mutual agreements, which are crucial for national stability and international relations. The current trajectory involves setting up a Thai committee to engage with Cambodia, ensuring that the discussions align with legal frameworks and promote bilateral cooperation. In addressing the overlapping maritime benefits agreement, the Prime Minister stated that a thorough examination is required to ensure fair and beneficial outcomes for both n ations, particularly in terms of natural resources like natural gas. The Prime Minister declined to comment on whether the coalition parties discussed potential constitutional amendments, departing to the Thai Khu Fah building thereafter.