Bangkok: The Secretary-General of the Council of State has referred the issue of canceling MOU 44 to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for further explanation, emphasizing the potential for cancellation if it does not violate international law. The Secretary-General highlighted the necessity for Thailand and Cambodia to reach a mutual agreement in order to establish new rules from the ground up. On the matter of QR codes on election ballots, he advised patience, suggesting that those who have lodged a complaint with the court should await the judicial process.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pakorn Nilapraphan, the Secretary-General of the Council of State, addressed Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul's directive to explore the annulment of the 2001 MOU. Mr. Pakorn noted that the Prime Minister has tasked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with studying the potential cancellation. He explained that the process entails a thorough examination of international law and meeting agreements to assess feasibility. Although he acknowledged the possibility of cancellation, he stressed that specific procedures and conditions must be adhered to.

Regarding the drafting of new rules post-cancellation, Mr. Pakorn stated that it depends on the discussions between Thailand and Cambodia. He suggested directing inquiries to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as he is not an expert in international law but rather specializes in Thai law.

When questioned about the legal implications of QR codes on ballot papers, Mr. Pakorn responded by inquiring whether a petition had been filed with the court. He emphasized the importance of allowing the court process to conclude before making any assumptions, advising against external speculation and conflicting interpretations.