- May 4, 2021
- 2,886
To: <Foreign Ministries of International Governments> JamieA Judea Vladilena Milizé EnigmaMage Alexander Isa Dutchy Bruno Zak ManBear Connor Jamie Alex Drivindeath Odinson Naio90 From: <Sarabun@mod.mail.go.th> Subject: Diplomatic Communication on Dispute with Rosoboronexport Security Type: NSST Protocol + Maximum Secure Encrypted Method - Protect by NIA Counter-Intelligence Service - The decryption method is sent separately via fax |
Dear Esteemed Colleagues,
I am writing to you today on a matter that is both urgent and of utmost importance: the ongoing conflict between Rosoboronexport, a state-owned company in the Russian Empire, and the Republic of Thailand. This statement aims to dispel misconceptions, explain our stance, and appeal for your cooperation on a matter that extends beyond bilateral relations and touches on essential ideas of international law and sovereign rights.
In 1999, Thailand purchased 10 Gepard-class frigates from Rosoboronexport. Originally classified as military hardware, these vessels have undergone significant modifications for non-military purposes in line with Thailand's policy of prioritizing disaster relief, coast guard, and humanitarian endeavors. Due to a recent attempt to transfer these vessels to Canada, Rosoboronexport has accused us of violating our agreement, specifically about condition #3, which forbids transferring purchased equipment to other parties without first receiving permission.
The word "equipment" is used in the contract in an ambiguous way, which is vital. International contract law regulations provide that any uncertainty must be read against the drafter, in this case Rosoboronexport. As per the international rules and our legal understanding, the upgraded frigates do not break the agreement because they are not considered part of the initial area of military "equipment."
The improvements made to the frigates that are not military fall under our sovereign rights and adhere to international standards. The unilateral penalties imposed by Rosoboronexport are viewed as an overreach of contractual enforcement and an infringement upon Thailand's sovereign rights.
Thailand is a country that cherishes world peace, stability, and collaboration. In addition to possibly harming Thai-Russian ties, Rosoboronexport's actions—which the Russian government has indirectly endorsed—also set a troubling precedent for international trade and diplomacy.
We implore your government to take into account the following: recognize the significance of contract law principles and the need for clarity and justice in international agreements; support our position that sovereign nations have the right to interpret and apply contracts in a manner consistent with their national policies and international law; and promote dialogue and resolution based on mutual respect and understanding, rather than unilateral sanctions and coercive measures.
The Republic of Thailand is still dedicated to using legal procedures and diplomatic channels to settle this disagreement. We firmly believe that communication and understanding can resolve conflicts, and we hope that our correspondence makes our stance and the larger picture of this disagreement more clear.
With the highest regard,
Piyabutr Saengkanokkul
Minister of Justice
Republic of Thailand