Bangkok: The Secretary General of the Council of State has confirmed that the rare earths bill was approved by the Cabinet during a special meeting. The approval marks the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on cooperation in developing the rare earth mineral supply chain between Thailand and the United States, which has been clarified as non-binding and not a contractual agreement.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pakorn Nilpraphun, Secretary General of the Council of State, addressed concerns regarding the binding nature of the MOU, which was detailed on the White House website. He assured that the MOU is not binding under international law and does not constitute a contract under Section 178, emphasizing its status as an international relationship only. This assertion aligns with statements made by Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul.

Mr. Pakorn further clarified that the MOU should not be viewed as a measure for the United States to exert pressure on Thailand. Instead, it represents an initial agreement that allows for mutual investment opportunities between the two nations, contingent on compliance with Thai mineral laws and fair bidding practices. He highlighted that the MOU includes a cancellation clause, allowing it to be revoked if necessary.

During the special Cabinet meeting, the MOU was thoroughly reviewed with input from the Minister of Foreign Affairs on international relations and the Council of State on legal aspects. Mr. Pakorn confirmed the collaborative and non-binding nature of the MOU, likening it to agreements Thailand has with other countries like Cambodia and Malaysia. He urged against relying on AI for summarizing the MOU’s details, as inaccuracies may arise.

Mr. Pakorn concluded by reiterating that the MOU’s final clause mandates adherence to each party’s internal laws and regulations. He reassured that existing concerns would be addressed and emphasized that the MOU is not a binding contract, urging the public not to worry.