Cambodia starts UN move to settle maritime dispute with Thailand

11 Sept 14:15 Key points summarised by AI

Cambodia initiated a compulsory conciliation process with the United Nations to resolve its long-running maritime boundary dispute with Thailand, aiming to protect its sovereignty and rights under international law.
This move comes after Thailand unilaterally terminated a 2001 agreement that provided a framework for negotiations over the disputed area in the Gulf of Thailand.
The contested Overlapping Claims Area (OCA) is estimated to contain significant natural gas and oil resources, valued at approximately $300 billion, driving an urgent need for resolution amidst global energy concerns.
The UNCLOS-mandated conciliation process involves a panel of independent experts making non-binding recommendations; Cambodia has appointed its conciliators, and Thailand has 21 days to appoint its own, despite its historical preference for bilateral negotiations.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Yesterday 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.