Reference is made to the Press Release issued by the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) on 14 August 2026 regarding the appointment of Ambassador Katrina Cooper, an Australian national, as the fifth conciliator who will serve as Chairperson of the Conciliation Commission in the Conciliation Proceedings under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Thailand has been duly informed of this development by the PCA. Ambassador Cooper is a former diplomat and well-regarded international lawyer and one of the candidates whom Thailand supports. She possesses extensive knowledge, expertise, and experience in international law and negotiation. In addition, she also has considerable experience in diplomacy and international relations, which contributes to an understanding of the broader context and related sensitivities in international relations. She previously served as Australia’s Ambassador to Mexico and as Co-Agent of the Australian Government in the Conciliation Proceedings under UNCLOS between Australia and Timor-Leste, reflecting her direct and relevant experience for the discharge of these duties.

As a next step, the Commission will determine the date of the first meeting, which is tentatively expected to be held in September 2026. Key agenda items for this first meeting will include consideration of the Rules of Procedure, which will establish the rules and framework for the Commission’s work and serve as guidance for subsequent meetings and related proceedings.

Thailand stands ready to cooperate with and fully support the work of the Conciliation Commission under the UNCLOS framework for the peaceful settlement of disputes. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and all relevant agencies remain committed to carrying out their duties to the best of their abilities to safeguard Thailand’s national interests and to engaging in the proceedings on the basis of international law, with the aim of contributing to a sustainable resolution for both countries.