寮國的外交關係──行走在巨人之間

Foreign Relations of Laos: Walking among the Giants

Since Vietnam and Thailand began to confront each other in Laos in the 18th century, Laos’relations with these two countries have always been intertwined. Vietnam and Thailand both believe that their national defense and security are closely related to Laos. In addition, according to investment in Laos from 1989 to 2015, the three largest foreign investors in Laos are China, Thailand and Vietnam. This article analyzes how Laos implements its foreign policy issues among the three giants: Thailand, Vietnam and China. In addition to discussing Laos’adjustment of its foreign policy priorities among these three giants, the author also attempts to explain Laos’foreign policy in accordance with international relations theory. Laos is a landlocked country, sometimes called a country connected to land. In terms of space, landlocked countries must rely on their neighbors for access to and from the ocean and for transit trade. This dependence puts Laos in a relatively fragile position. It must often succumb to pressure from neighboring countries and adjust its foreign policy at any time.