On April 23, 2025, at 11:50 a.m. in Phnom Penh, Kingdom of Cambodia, Dr. Chalermchai Sri-on, Minister of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Minister of Environment of the Kingdom of Cambodia on transboundary environmental pollution cooperation. The signing took place during the official visit of the Prime Minister of Thailand to commemorate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Cambodia. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Samdech Moha Borvor Thapadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, witnessed the signing ceremony, held at the Jasmine Room, 2nd Floor, Peace Palace.
The MoU, which was approved by the Thai Cabinet on April 22, 2025, forms part of the Joint Action Plan for Preventing and Resolving Transboundary Haze Pollution under the “Blue Sky Strategy” (2024–2030). It aims to enhance cooperation in preventing and mitigating the impacts of transboundary pollution, not limited to haze, but also encompassing air pollution, water pollution, solid waste, hazardous waste, and other forms of pollution. Additionally, the agreement seeks to strengthen the diplomatic relationship between the two countries.
The MoU outlines five areas of cooperation:
- Exchange of knowledge, information, and best practices on transboundary pollution prevention;
- Capacity-building for personnel and relevant stakeholders in pollution management;
- Joint implementation of transboundary pollution management research projects;
- Rapid response to mitigate environmental and public health impacts;
- Collaborative efforts to address transboundary environmental pollution effectively.
“This MoU will be effective for a period of five years from the date of signature by both parties. It includes mechanisms for implementation, monitoring, and regular progress reviews. It is expected that this cooperation will substantively support the prevention and resolution of transboundary environmental pollution in all the aforementioned areas,” stated Dr. Chalermchai.
