Abstract

• This paper analyzes the territorial disputes between Myanmar and Thailand, focusing on two key contested areas: The Loi Lan region and the O-7 Hillock. After Myanmar's independence, it could measure the borders with neighboring countries and sign agreements, but it was not to measure the borders with Thailand. Border disputes arose as the Myanmar government asserted political control and legal influence. Due to the encroachment of Thai military bases in the Loi Lan area, the Myanmar delegation objected to Thai outposts in Myanmar and discussed territorial ownership. Despite discussions, relations between Myanmar and Thailand became strained when Thailand helped SURA attack Myanmar military bases on the Myanmar-Thai border. In addition, the Thai army joined forces with the SURA armed insurgents to carry out further attacks on the O-7 hillock and Pachee Camp. Therefore, due to the attack along the Myanmar-Thai border in early 2001, Myanmar and Thailand relations were diminished. However, the two countries tried to negotiate and resolve the over-the-border issues. This research analyzed Myanmar-Thailand relations regarding the Loi Lan region and the O-7 hillock issues.