VIETNAM NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF HANOI
UNIVERSITY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES
-------------------------------
Ta Thi Nguyet Trang
VIETNAM-THAILAND RELATIONS FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS THEORIES
FROM 1991 - 2019
Major: International Relations
Code: 62 32 02 06
ABSTRACT OF THE DOCTORAL THESIS IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
Hanoi – 2020
The project was completed at:
UNIVERSITY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES
VIETNAM NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF HANOI
Scientific supervisor: Prof. Dr. Hoang Khac Nam
Counter-argument 1:
Counter-argument 2:
Counter-argument 3:
The dissertation will be defended before the National University Doctoral Dissertation Examination Board.
Meeting held at: University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi
at [time] on [date] 2020
The thesis can be found at:
- National Library of Vietnam
- Information Center - Library, Vietnam National University, Hanoi
LIST OF SCIENTIFIC WORKS BY THE AUTHOR
RELATED TO THE THESIS
1. Ta Thi Nguyet Trang (2019), “Impacts of Vietnam – Thailand relationship on the economic development of Vietnam from the perspective of constructivism (1991 – 2018) ,HNUE Journal of Science64(11), pp.31-37.
2. Ta Thi Nguyet Trang (2019), “Evaluation of the Vietnam – Thailand international relations cooperation trend from the perspective of liberalism”,Proceedings of the International Workshop on Structural Prospects in the Asia-Pacific to 2025 and Vietnam's Responses, World Publishing House, Hanoi, pp. 274-284.
INTRODUCTION
1. Reasons for choosing the topic
Applying international relations theory to research aims not only to generalize and describe the practical aspects of international relations but also to understand the nature of international relations, explain various phenomena within them, predict trends, and propose principles for action in developing policies or solutions for practical activities. However, each theory offers a different perspective; therefore, to provide a more multifaceted view and clarify the many influencing factors in international relations, it is necessary to apply multiple theories in research.
Take the Vietnam-Thailand relationship as an example. Since the end of the Cold War (1991), peace has become the dominant trend in international relations between nations, especially between major powers. This is entirely understandable from a liberal theoretical perspective, because after the Cold War, all countries focused on economic recovery and development, so national interest was prioritized. The desire for peace, the need for economic prosperity, the promotion of democracy and freedom, the development of a market economy, the promotion of international law, and the expansion of international institutions... led countries to increasingly focus on absolute interests with a long-term perspective. However, in reality, this relationship is not yet completely peaceful and sustainable. Local wars and regional conflicts continue to occur at varying levels and scopes. Furthermore, the regionalization and globalization of the world economy have created many favorable conditions for small and medium-sized countries to actively and proactively participate in the process of international integration in various forms to strengthen their position. Thailand and Vietnam are also part of this movement.
Based on these practical requirements, and in order to assess and understand the relationship between the two countries in the present and near future, the researcher has chosen "Vietnam-Thailand relations from the perspective of various theories.This dissertation aims to systematically study the foreign relations of the two countries, analyzing the foundations and development of political, economic, and other aspects of their relationship. From this analysis, the author hopes to draw conclusions to provide a stronger theoretical and practical basis for further developing the relationship between the two countries.
2. Research objectives and research tasks
2.1. Research Objectives
This dissertation systematically analyzes the bilateral relationship between Vietnam and Thailand from 1991 to 2019 through the perspectives of international relations theories, including realism, liberalism, and constructivism. Through this analysis, it assesses the factors influencing this relationship and provides arguments for discussion, evaluation of the current situation, and future directions.
2.2. Research Objectives
The firstThis systematizes the concepts and perspectives applicable to the study of Vietnam-Thailand relations from international relations theories including liberalism, realism, and constructivism.
MondayThis includes a comprehensive review of research issues worldwide and in Vietnam related to the topic.
TuesdayThis study examines the arguments of three theories—realism, liberalism, and constructivism—in analyzing the practical relationship between Vietnam and Thailand from 1991 to the present.
WednesdayThis study analyzes and evaluates the prospects of Vietnam-Thailand relations and, based on that, offers recommendations for the future development of these relations.
3. Research Subjects and Scope
3.1. Research Subjects
The subject of this dissertation is the bilateral relationship between Vietnam and Thailand from 1991 to 2019, examined from the perspectives of international relations theories including realism, liberalism, and constructivism.
32. Scope of research
Regarding timeThe doctoral candidate has chosen the period from 1991 to the present as the research timeframe for their dissertation.
The year 1991 was chosen as the starting point because it marked the end of the Cold War, requiring countries to reassess their new international standing and adjust their development strategies and foreign policies to adapt to the new situation. This impacted the overall relationship between Thailand and Vietnam. Furthermore, this was the year Prime Minister Anand Panyarachun came to power – he was instrumental in initiating Thailand's economic and democratic reforms, while Vietnam had just completed five years of Doi Moi (Renovation) (1986-1991) and began implementing the Resolution of the 7th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam.
In terms of spaceThis research topic focuses on bilateral relations, therefore the main research area is Vietnam and Thailand. In addition, this relationship is also examined within the context of the dynamics of Southeast Asia and the world to gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing the relationship between the two countries.
Thailand-Vietnam relations unfold on two levels: bilateral and multilateral cooperation mechanisms. However, within the scope of this thesis, the focus is solely on bilateral relations, meaning a two-way study of the relationship between Thailand and Vietnam, and Vietnam and Thailand. The thesis focuses on bilateral relations because this is not only the main thread but also the most comprehensive and complete representation of the issues in the Vietnam-Thailand relationship.
Regarding contentThis dissertation will examine the tenets of international relations theory (Competitiveness, Conservatism, and Economicism) to study the factors impacting Thailand-Vietnam relations from 1991 to 2019. These three theories are currently considered the largest and most fundamental in international relations research. From this, it will present discussions, analyses, and assessments of the current state of Vietnam-Thailand relations, as well as prospects and future development directions.
4. Research methodology of the thesis
4.1. Theoretical basis
This dissertation utilizes the theoretical foundations of Marxism-Leninism, dialectical materialism, and historical materialism; Ho Chi Minh Thought; and the Party and State's views on diplomacy and international cooperation.
Furthermore, the thesis utilizes a system of international relations theories, specifically: realism, liberalism, and constructivism. These theoretical frameworks are then used to examine the Vietnam-Thailand relationship from 1991 to 2019.
4.2. Approach
The thesis employs several approaches to the research problem as follows:
- Approaching from the perspectives of each theory: Realism, Liberalism, and Constructivism.
- Approaching from the perspective of international relations history: examining the evolution of Vietnam-Thailand bilateral relations along a historical axis.
- Approaching the structural system in international relations to identify the impacts of external international systems and structures, including regional and global ones, on the subject of study.
- Adopting an interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary approach to examine bilateral relations across various fields such as economics, politics, culture, and society.
Research methodsThe thesis utilizes the following four main methodological approaches:
- Common methods used in the social sciences and humanities: analysis, argumentation, comparison, statistics.
- Methods used in international relations: policy analysis, interest analysis, conflict analysis, cooperation.
- Methods used in other disciplines: international economic analysis, sociology.
- Secondary document research method: aims to systematize the theoretical and practical basis already published in previous studies and documents related to the topic.
5. Scientific and practical significance of the thesis
5.1. Scientific Significance
This dissertation is the first scientific work in Vietnam to study Vietnam-Thailand relations from 1991 to 2019 from the perspective of international relations theories. Therefore, the dissertation will make new scientific contributions by systematically and comprehensively researching the factors influencing and the development of relations between Thailand and Vietnam from 1991 to 2019, drawing conclusions about the current state of Vietnam-Thailand relations and their prospects and future development directions.
This also serves as a scientific reference for researchers and educators in international relations when systematically examining international relations theories in relation to practical situations.
5.2. Practical Significance
The Vietnam-Thailand relationship is transitioning to a strategic partnership. Therefore, the findings of this study will help foreign policy makers in both countries gain a more comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing and the prospects for the future development of this relationship.
This dissertation also serves as a teaching and reference document for lecturers and students specializing in international relations, as well as readers interested in the topic of Thailand-Vietnam relations in particular, and the political, diplomatic, and economic cooperation of ASEAN countries in general.
6. Structure of the thesis
Besides the introduction, conclusion, bibliography, list of figures, tables, list of abbreviations, table of contents, and appendices, the thesis content consists of 4 chapters:
Chapter 1. Overview of the research situation
Chapter 2. Vietnam-Thailand Relations in the Security and Political Field (1991-2019)
Chapter 3. Vietnam-Thailand Relations in the Economic Field (1991 - 2019)
Chapter 4. Vietnam-Thailand Relations in the Cultural and Social Field (1991-2019)
Chapter 1. Overview of the research situation
1.1. Overview of literature on Vietnam-Thailand relations
1.1.1. Research on the overall Vietnam-Thailand relationship
Vietnamese works researching Thailand-Vietnam relations after 1991 are quite detailed and elaborate research works. Author Nguyen Tuong Lai published the book Vietnam-Thailand Relations in the 1990s [10], conducting research on the development direction of relations between the two countries. From there, he summarized the meaning and importance of cooperation between Vietnam and Thailand not only for national interests but also affecting the region. The group of authors analyzed and evaluated the 10-year reality of Vietnam-Thailand relations in the fields of politics, diplomacy, economics... and at the same time pointed out the challenges and prospects in Vietnam-Thailand relations when entering the 21st century and proposed things in adjusting and planning policies for relations with Thailand in the coming years.
1.1.2. Research on Vietnam and Thailand in specific areas
In the post-Cold War period, Thailand-Vietnam relations have been the subject of many articles published in prestigious journals such as: Southeast Asian Studies, Historical Studies, Economic Studies, International Studies... In specific fields, the fields of economics, tourism, and culture are still of the greatest interest to many scholars. A typical example is the article by author Truong Duy Hoa, Thailand-Indochina Investment Relations [4]. The article studies the situation of foreign investment in Indochina and examines the important role of Thailand-Indochina investment relations in cooperation and economic development on the basis of friendly neighborliness. Thailand has many similarities in history and culture with the Indochinese countries, including Vietnam, so Thai investors are increasingly engaging in cooperation and investment in Indochina to share economic benefits of mutual interest. Vietnam - Thailand Economic Relations: 20 Years of Development Author Ha Huy Thanh [23] has studied the trade relations between Vietnam and Thailand from the time Vietnam was still applying the centralized planning management system until now. He examines and evaluates Thai direct investment in Vietnam. He raises the prospects for developing Vietnam - Thailand economic cooperation relations in the future. However, these articles mainly focus on economic issues.
1.2. Overview of International Relations Theory in Research
1.2.1. Realism
There are many theories in international relations. Among these theories, Realism is the most prominent. This theory has had a significant influence on international relations, both theoretically and practically, especially in the 20th century. Realism focuses on the study of international political issues, and is therefore also known as Political Realism. Realism is also called Power Politics because of its focus on power.
1.2.2. Liberalism
Along with Realism, Liberalism is also a theory of international relations with a long history. However, the initial ideas of this theory appeared much later than Realism, which dates back to antiquity. The first ideas in the liberal thought tradition can be found from the modern era, such as those of Desiderius Erasmus Roterodamus, Hugo Grotius, John Locke, or William Penn, for example.
1.2.3. Constructivism
As a relatively new approach in international relations research, Social Constructivism, or Constructivism, has raised fundamental questions about international relations studies, such as the nature of the state, the anarchy of the international system, national identity and interests, sovereignty, etc. At the same time, Constructivism has opened up a range of new issues requiring research, such as the role of gender and ethnicity, which have not been adequately addressed in other approaches. Many argue that Constructivism is essentially an approach, not a complete system of viewpoints or a whole theory in international relations research. It is sometimes considered the "middle ground" or "theory of theories" (metatheory).
1.3. Some general observations on the research situation
It is evident that domestic scholars have been extensively researching international relations in Southeast Asia in general and Vietnam-Thailand relations in particular. These works build upon, supplement, and update the evolving relationship between the two countries from before 1991 to the present. This constitutes a large and valuable database for future research.
Each theoretical model contains different arguments, some of which overlap. These differences between theories are often central to academic debates on this issue. Furthermore, many experts in Asia generally do not confine themselves to a specific school of thought such as capitalism, capitalism, or capitalism. Therefore, applying international relations theories to research in Southeast Asia requires identifying and discussing arguments that are relevant to the region's practical situation. In this context, international relations theories such as capitalism, capitalism, and capitalism remain compatible and useful in analyzing international relations in this region.
Although there are still many differing opinions, each theory of international relations contains arguments that are useful for studying Vietnam-Thailand relations. All theories attempt to offer general arguments applicable to the entire world. Therefore, the researcher will only use, not all, but only certain arguments from each theory. These are also the core issues that this research aims to address.
Chapter 2. Vietnam-Thailand Relations in the Security and Political Field (1991-2019)
2.1. Overview of Vietnam-Thailand relations in the security and political field
Historically, the security and political relationship between Vietnam and Thailand has seen significant progress, marking a development in the two countries' security and political ties. This involves a shift from confrontation to a positive and cooperative diplomatic, political, and security relationship.
Particularly since 2013, Vietnam and Thailand have officially upgraded their relationship to a Strategic Partnership. In 2014, Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha visited Vietnam, and the two sides signed the Action Program to implement the Vietnam-Thailand Strategic Partnership for the period 2014-2018. In accordance with the agreement between the two Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam and Thailand, the first Deputy Ministerial-level Political Consultations between the two Ministries were held between 2010 and 2015. These contacts and exchanges took place in an atmosphere of friendship, trust, and mutual understanding. Vietnam and Thailand discussed directions and measures to further strengthen their good cooperation in many fields. The discussions emphasized political and security cooperation, working together to expedite the restart of the Intergovernmental Committee on Economic Cooperation and the early establishment of a Trade Committee to promote trade between the two countries. Both sides also shared many views on regional and international issues of mutual concern. Strengthening coordination and close cooperation will promote ASEAN's goals, boosting cooperation within regional cooperation frameworks such as the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), the East-West Economic Corridor (EWEC), and in multilateral relations at international forums such as the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), the East Asia Summit (EAS), the Asia-Europe Cooperation Forum (ASEM), the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, and the United Nations. In particular, in the context of the official establishment of the ASEAN Community on December 31, 2015, the leaders of the two countries agreed to promote coordination to effectively enhance the Community's role, while consolidating solidarity and promoting ASEAN's central role in addressing regional and international issues.
Since then, political relations between Vietnam and Thailand have significantly improved. Shifting from confrontation to dialogue, political cooperation between Vietnam and Thailand has continued to be strengthened through high-level exchanges and reciprocal visits, as well as the establishment of many new, substantive cooperation mechanisms after the two countries upgraded their relationship to a strategic partnership, such as the Joint Committee on Bilateral Cooperation, political dialogue, security, and defense.
2.2. Assessing Vietnam-Thailand relations in the security and political sphere from the perspective of international relations theory.
2.2.1. From the perspective of Realism
From a Realist perspective, international relations are constructed according to various models. One of the most well-known is the Billiard Ball Model. In this model, nations are likened to billiard balls, that is, as a unified entity, thinking only of themselves, and their interaction is primarily through collisions (competition, conflict). During these collisions, smaller balls (lower power) may be pushed away or stopped, while larger balls (higher power) continue moving, albeit perhaps slightly slower or deviating from their course. After a period of collisions, a relative stability is created corresponding to a historical period, preparing for a new collision. The power pyramid model clearly illustrates this, with the most powerful nations at the top and the less powerful nations at the bottom. The greater the power imbalance between them, the greater the gap between countries.
On the other hand, the argument about the balance of power is an important indicator that realists have contributed to the study and analysis of the political situation in the world. Whether in academic or practical political terms, realists believe that the balance of power is the main driving force in shaping Asian international relations [51, pp. 295]. Accordingly, the presence of the United States in Asia in general and Southeast Asia in particular has a significant impact on the stability and prosperity of this region due to the bipolar order during the Cold War (United States and the Soviet Union). However, since the end of the Cold War, the United States and Russia have also had their own foreign policy pivots, along with the strong rise of China, which has caused the balance of power among countries in the world to shift towards a multipolar trend. The presence of great powers in a region is for them to balance each other's influence. Accordingly, realists argue that weak countries sometimes choose to attract or create institutions to attract important powers to balance power in the region, thereby ensuring the survival and security of the nation.[47]
2.2.2. From a Liberal Perspective
Applying liberal theory to the assessment of the security and political relationship between Vietnam and Thailand involves examining it from multiple perspectives, linked to the history of each country and the context of international relations. Liberalism has offered many viewpoints on the trend of international relations towards peace, cooperation, and development. In this context, reforms in foreign policy and changes in political institutions play a decisive role in the stability of each country as well as the region.
A key issue in the international relations trends mentioned by the proponents of international relations is non-traditional security, which ASEAN has also identified in its operational objectives through specific activities aimed at strengthening the resolution of these issues, particularly in combating transnational crime and other cross-border challenges in accordance with the principles of collective security.
2.2.3. From the Perspective of Constructivism
From 1991 to the present, both Vietnam and Thailand have shared common ideals alongside their own interests. In technical terms, these interests have influenced the maintenance and evolution of international relations. Technicalism emphasizes the role of factors that form a "common identity" in international relations.
SummaryChapter 2
Applying the theory of international relations to Vietnam-Thailand relations reveals that: In an anarchic international system, power competition between major powers is constant and continuous. Therefore, Southeast Asia is always a battleground for competition between major powers. This leads to countries in the region like Vietnam and Thailand being easily drawn into conflicts and confrontations, similar to the Cold War. Applying the theory of international relations reveals that: There are individual interests but also common interests. Countries pursue both absolute and absolute interests. From this, cooperation between Vietnam and Thailand increases. Cooperation is a way to reduce conflict and gradually replace conflict, especially cooperation between the military and political circles of the two countries. Regarding the theory of international relations: Ideological differences contribute to confrontation in the Thai conflict. When ideological issues diminish, security and political relations begin to develop. The perceptions of the two countries change. The process of improving security and political relations between the two countries has helped build trust on security issues, thus further developing security and political relations.
Chapter 3. Vietnam-Thailand Relations in the Economic Field (1991 - 2019)
3.1 Overview of economic relations between Vietnam and Thailand3.1.1. Bilateral Economic Development
Thailand and Vietnam started from nearly the same economic development points, with roughly equal populations, and especially in the 1950s, both countries had similar levels of development. This can be clearly seen through GDP figures; according to World Bank statistics, in 1954, Vietnam's GDP per capita was $117, while Thailand's in 1952 was $108. However, when studying the period from 1991 to 2019, Thailand experienced significantly stronger growth.
3.1.2. Two-way trade and investment cooperation
From 1991 to the present, trade relations between Vietnam and Thailand have achieved certain successes. However, the growth rate has been uneven, with periods of negative growth in 1999, 2001, and 2009. Overall, the growth rate of total export turnover between the two countries has consistently shown strong progress from 1991 to the present. However, the trade balance between the two sides has become increasingly skewed. This figure was US$93.7 million in 1991, but decreased to US$6.5 billion in 2018. Thailand remains a net exporter, while Vietnam is a net importer. In 2018, Vietnam's imports from Thailand were more than double the amount from Thailand.
3.2. Economic relations between Vietnam and Thailand from the perspective of international relations theories.
3.2.1. From the Perspective of Realism
From the perspective of classical realism, a nation that wants to develop must break free from economic and political constraints. In other words, that nation must integrate, expand its goods market, and strengthen interaction with other countries. However, this is influenced by the interests of each nation, with each country considering the benefits gained from participating in partnerships. Thus, examining the economic relationship between Vietnam and Thailand from a classical realist perspective shows the relevance of this theory to the practical relationship between the two countries. According to classical realists, the national entity is characterized by its singularity and rationality in its relations with the outside world.
3.2.2. From a Liberal Perspective
The view of pluralistic subjects in international relations also explains the participation of states and businesses in economic relations. Liberalism argues that in international relations, besides states, there are non-state subjects such as international organizations [16] and transnational corporations [17]. Non-state subjects are increasingly participating in international relations with an increasingly important role, making international relations intertwined with interests between many different subjects, and no longer dominated solely by the interests and calculations of the state. In general, applying Liberalism in studying the economic relationship between Vietnam and Thailand shows that the close economic relationship between the two countries has established peace in the region, both countries are important members of regional economic organizations and are creating good prospects in bilateral relations in many fields and have a decisive impact on the regional order as well as the relationship between the two countries.
3.2.3. From the Perspective of Constructivism
Constructivist theorists argue that the social identities of nations determine whether those entities will cooperate or conflict with each other. A nation's social identity dictates what constitutes its national interest and determines its course of action. Constructivist theorists also argue that shared beliefs, values, and ideologies have a significant impact on the behavior of socio-political actors in international relations.
Summary of Chapter 3
Applying the principles of international relations to Vietnam-Thailand economic relations reveals that each nation acts in its own self-interest. Therefore, Vietnam-Thailand economic relations should be viewed as aligning with the national interests of both countries. New international relations emphasize the role of the international system. International relations demonstrate that the diverse actors mean that Vietnam-Thailand economic relations involve the participation of states and businesses. Interests are both individual and shared, and there are absolute interests. Economic cooperation between Vietnam and Thailand is about shared interests and aims towards absolute interests, alongside individual interests as explained by international relations. International relations highlight the role of economics in political and security matters, noting their reciprocal influence; economic cooperation and integration help reduce conflict. Economic relations are reflected in the following key points: the role of perception when both sides shift their perception of each other from adversaries to partners; the role of trust when both sides believe in the positive outcomes of economic cooperation; and the role of identity in relation to interests. It helps to shape a common identity for bilateral economic cooperation and within ASEAN helps to form a common identity.
Chapter 4. Vietnam-Thailand Relations in the Cultural and Social Field (1991-2019)
4.1. Overview of Vietnam-Thailand relations in the socio-cultural field
4.1.1. Vietnam-Thailand relations in the cultural field
During the period from 1986 to 1989, the Cambodian issue remained a major obstacle to improving cooperative relations between Vietnam and Thailand. In this context, cooperation in the cultural and social fields between the two countries faced many obstacles and lacked the conditions for development. In 1989, a series of political events changed the global landscape. The end of the Cold War led to fundamental changes in relations between the Soviet Union, the United States, and China, with these countries gradually making fundamental adjustments to their policies towards Southeast Asia. The normalization of relations between China and the Soviet Union in 1989, and between Vietnam and China in the 1990s, and the normalization of relations between the United States and Vietnam, marked by the establishment of diplomatic relations in July 1995, are significant developments. With the Cambodian issue resolved, these events had a positive impact on relations between Vietnam and Thailand. Years of confrontation ended, suspicions diminished, and relations between the two countries entered a new era of cooperation and mutual development.
4.1.2. People-to-people exchanges
Through these activities, people-to-people exchanges are increasingly strengthened. The people of both countries gain a better understanding of each other's history, land, people, and culture. The Friendship Association acts as a bridge to promote and facilitate cooperation and exchange in economics, culture, science, and technology. It contributes to the development of friendly relations and cooperation between the people of Vietnam and the people of Thailand, for peace, cooperation, and development in the region and the world.
4.1.3. Sports Cooperation
Cooperation in sports not only improves physical fitness and promotes a competitive spirit, but also facilitates exchange and learning between sports universities, training centers, and between the capitals and cities of the two countries, enabling them to coordinate in regional and international sports activities.
4.1.4. Cooperation in the field of education
Educational cooperation is a crucial factor in promoting relations between Thailand and Vietnam. The governments of both countries have established mechanisms for cooperation and support in the areas of native languages, culture, and history. With the aim of increasing the number of Vietnamese who can speak and write Thai fluently, and encouraging more Thai children to learn Vietnamese, education and training are always prioritized by both countries, as they serve as an important bridge to foster friendly relations between the people. Cooperation in education between the two countries will promote in-depth knowledge and skills among learners, striving for academic progress and excellence, particularly in the study, research, and development of knowledge and technology in natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. It will also promote the application of modern technology and the intellectual expertise of both Thai and Vietnamese people to the economic and social development of Thailand and Vietnam.
4.1.5. Cooperation in the field of tourism
Tourism cooperation between Vietnam and Thailand has yielded many positive results. This cooperation not only fosters neighborly friendship between the people of the two countries but also facilitates the transformation of the country's landscape. Where tourism develops, the appearance of urban and rural areas is improved, becoming cleaner and more beautiful, and the lives of the people are significantly enhanced. Tourism activities have boosted the development of other sectors, creating local consumption opportunities for goods and services; each year, dozens of traditional festivals are restored and organized in an orderly and healthy manner, promoting traditional customs and values.
4.2. Assessing Vietnam-Thailand relations in the socio-cultural field from the perspective of international relations theories.
4.2.1. From the Perspective of Realism
As discussed in previous chapters, Realism is used to explain the political, security, and economic relationship between Vietnam and Thailand. However, applying Realism to the assessment of socio-cultural cooperation between Vietnam and Thailand reveals a strong cultural bond and cooperation aimed at development and conflict mitigation. Furthermore, the application of Realism in this area must be considered within the context of each country at a specific historical stage.
4.2.2. From a Liberal Perspective
Evaluating the relationship between Vietnam and Thailand in the cultural and social spheres from a liberal perspective will reveal the cooperation between the two countries in this area. It will also explain that cultural and social cooperation is one of the open diplomatic strategies aimed at stability and sustainable development in the relationship between the two countries. Applying liberal principles will explain the fundamental issues in the cultural and social relationship between the two countries.
4.2.3. From the Perspective of Constructivism
Evaluating the relationship between Vietnam and Thailand in the socio-cultural field from a constructivist perspective will reveal important foundations for cooperation between the two countries in this area. Furthermore, applying constructivism will explain the role of intangible factors in shaping the structure and institutions of bilateral relations, highlighting shared regional interests and identities, as well as common values and perspectives between Vietnam and Thailand. This will allow for the establishment of common standards, enhancing friendship and cooperation based on socio-cultural exchange, ultimately leading towards an ASEAN community.
Summary of Chapter 4
Cultural exchange is a concept referring to a common, regular phenomenon that governs the movement and development of all national cultures in the world. It is a consequence of contact and a cause and condition for the integration of cultures, and is essentially a process of exchange between cultures. Any national culture would decline without this exchange. This process is the dialectical interaction between endogenous and exogenous factors of a national culture. The cultural exchange between Thailand and Vietnam also falls within this principle.
CONCLUDE
The application of international relations theories to the analysis and evaluation of "Vietnam-Thailand Relations from the Perspective of International Relations Theories (1991-2019)" has revealed important arguments regarding the theoretical and practical basis associated with the historical context of the world and the region in general, and the relationship between Vietnam and Thailand in particular. From this, the following main conclusions can be drawn:
Regarding relations between the two countries:
Vietnam and Thailand are close neighbors with a long history of relations. The relationship between Vietnam and Thailand was formed very early in history. This relationship encompasses political, economic, cultural, and ethnic ties, creating important foundations for the close ties between the two countries. The establishment of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Thailand on August 6, 1976, opened a new chapter in their bilateral relationship. Amidst the changing global and regional situation, and internal transformations within each country, Vietnam and Thailand have gradually overcome past doubts and suspicions, expanding comprehensive cooperation across many fields.
Economic relations between the two countries. Economic cooperation between the two countries truly developed in the early 1990s. However, in recent years, the economic relationship between the two countries has developed to a new level, becoming a strategic partnership in the development policies of both countries. From 1991 to the present, the relationship between the two countries has shifted from confrontation to cooperation. The proportion of bilateral trade between Vietnam and Thailand has continuously increased. Many positive factors have emerged, creating strong prospects for cooperation and development. The trade turnover between the two countries has continuously increased, and the exchange of goods has strengthened. Vietnam and Thailand are particularly more favorable than other ASEAN countries due to their geographical proximity, shared customs and traditions, and the large Vietnamese community living in Thailand. Foreign investment from Thailand and Vietnam has increased rapidly through Vietnam's open-door policy for foreign investment. From there, both countries have the opportunity to expand their markets through cooperation within the framework of AFTA and outside the ASEAN region. Participation in AFTA helps Vietnam and Thailand accelerate economic and trade development, strongly promoting Vietnamese exports to Thailand and other countries in the region, increasing the volume of Vietnamese goods in the Thai market in particular and the region in general.
The political relationship between Vietnam and Thailand is characterized by increasingly reliable and substantive foreign policies and defense and security cooperation. This is demonstrated by the results of frequent visits and contacts between high-level leaders of both countries and the regular and effective implementation of cooperation mechanisms such as the Joint Cabinet, the Joint Committee on Bilateral Cooperation, Political Consultations, Defense Policy Dialogue, the Joint Working Group on Political-Security Cooperation, and joint maritime patrols. The security and political relationship between the two countries over the years has created a solid foundation for the further development of the Vietnam-Thailand relationship. Mutual trust and the need for cooperation for shared development will create new impetus for more comprehensive and sustainable development in the future, contributing to peace, stability, and prosperity in Asia and the world. To date, the two countries have signed more than 50 agreements and cooperation agreements, creating a legal basis for promoting bilateral relations in many fields. Bilateral security and defense cooperation is constantly being promoted, based on the principles of respecting each other's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. Disputes are resolved peacefully, without the threat or use of force, and neither side interferes in the other's internal affairs. Cooperation includes exchanging experiences, coordinating joint patrols at sea, and regular and increasingly effective visits by military and security delegations from both countries. Both sides also share many views on regional and international issues of common concern. They strengthen coordination and close cooperation to promote ASEAN goals and enhance cooperation within regional cooperation frameworks such as the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), ACMECS, the East-West Corridor, and other international forums.
The relationship between Vietnam and Thailand in the socio-cultural field. Cooperation in the socio-cultural field between Vietnam and Thailand (1991-2019) has achieved certain results, contributing to strengthening the relationship between the two countries, creating opportunities for close exchanges between the two peoples, improving the quality of human resources, and working towards a united ASEAN Community, forming common regional identities while each country maintains its own unique identity. Both countries have undergone changes in their common understanding and implemented a reformed approach in diplomatic relations. This aims to establish common standards, strengthen solidarity and friendship between the two countries on the foundation of socio-cultural exchanges, and move towards the ASEAN Community.
The Vietnam-Thailand relationship is developing in depth and breadth across many fields, and has become a multifaceted integration within ASEAN.
Regarding the application of international relations theories in analyzing the relationship between Vietnam and Thailand:
The application of international relations theory in this research is useful in explaining the causes, conditions, and impacts on the development of Vietnam-Thailand relations. Specifically, the theory of cooperation helps explain past confrontations and the subsequent security and political cooperation in the post-Cold War context. The theory of cooperation effectively explains the trends in security, politics, economics, and other fields. The theory of economic cooperation identifies subjective factors influencing this process and assesses the increasing role of socio-cultural cooperation.
Each theory offers aspects and arguments that can explain the conflicts between the two countries, as well as their comprehensive cooperation. These theories provide tools for assessing the trends in this relationship. From this, the prospects for this relationship appear positive.
When applying international relations theories to assess the relationship between Vietnam and Thailand in three basic areas—political security, economic relations, and socio-cultural relations—it becomes clear that each theory explains the relationship between the two countries in a specific area. This also means that no single theory can be applied to explain the entire process. However, applying theories alone is not a guarantee of answers to every problem, as theories are often general in nature, while reality is much more diverse.
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