The policy of Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam in relation to the Mekong problem

ЮГО-ВОСТОЧНАЯ АЗИЯ: АКТУАЛЬНЫЕ ПРОБЛЕМЫ РАЗВИТИЯ, 2023, №1(58), 45-57

 
Annotation: The Mekong water problem influences the politics of the lower basin countries – Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. These countries are interested in increasing the use of river resources, primarily energy. Despite the concerns regarding the impact of hydropower on the state of the ecological system of the subregion, they are increasing cooperation in the field of regional electricity trade. The involvement of external participants is considered as an important factor in the development of the subregion, including the creation and improvement of energy and other types of infrastructure. Involving as many non-regional players as possible in participating in sub-regional processes allows putting pressure on the China on the issue of water use, reducing tensions caused by the American-Chinese confrontation, as well as creating conditions for healthy competition in the development of the subregion.

Keywords: Greater Mekong subregion, transboundary river cooperation, hydropower, water resources management