Thaksin Shinawatra Unfazed by MOU44 Criticism in Government Debate.

Bangkok: Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra expressed his lack of concern over the recent criticisms involving MOU44, which have been used to attack the government. He emphasized that many critics were unaware of the memorandum's actual content and insisted on the distinction between personal relationships and national interests. According to Thai News Agency, Thaksin elaborated on the nature of MOU 44, clarifying that it is a memorandum of understanding concerning overlapping maritime claims between Thailand and Cambodia. He explained that MOU 44 is not an agreement but rather a preliminary discussion framework that does not require parliamentary submission. The memorandum serves as a guideline for dialogue, supported by international laws and treaties from the colonial era when Cambodia was under French rule. Thaksin urged people not to be alarmed by the issue, noting that misunderstandings about MOU 44's purpose are common. When asked about the political implications of the issue, Thaksin reiterate d his indifference, stating there was no cause for excitement. He also addressed the connections being drawn between the MOU and his relationship with Cambodia, emphasizing that these were separate matters. Thaksin recalled his tenure as prime minister when tensions arose due to the burning of the Thai embassy in Cambodia. He highlighted that, despite close personal ties, the interests of the nation always took precedence. He recounted, "Friendship is friendship, but the country's interests are two different things," underscoring the primacy of national interests over personal connections.