Building Thailand-China Relations in a Third Country: A Case Study on the Promotion of Soft Power in the Lao People's Democratic Republic

Abstract

Currently, Thailand's soft power in its international relations with the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) is facing significant challenges, particularly due to China's increasing influence. China has been extensively and intensively exporting its soft power across multiple dimensions, prompting Thailand to adjust its soft power strategy in Lao PDR to maintain its status and expand its role in the region. Therefore, it is crucial to study the resources and dynamics of Thailand’s and China’s soft power in Lao PDR, as well as the indirect impact of third-party countries on Thailand’s soft power in its international relations with Lao PDR. This understanding is essential for analyzing the dynamics of international relations and predicting future trends in soft power that may influence regional transformations.

This article forms part of a doctoral dissertation in the field of Politics and Development Strategy, titled “Thailand’s Use of Soft Power in International Relations with the Lao People's Democratic Republic.” The study employs a qualitative research approach, focusing on an in-depth analysis of Thailand’s use of soft power within the context of its international relations with Laos.

This section of the study reveals that the country most influential in driving Thailand's soft power in the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) is China, which plays a pivotal role. China's export of soft power into Laos encompasses all three sources of power as outlined in Joseph S. Nye’s theoretical framework: cultural, international policy, and political values. Furthermore, China holds a significant role in trilateral cooperation involving Thailand, China, and Laos. This cooperation can be categorized into four types: General city or provincial collaborations, Joint investments in general urban or provincial areas, National or regional-level collaborations, and Joint investments in special economic zones.

The primary objectives of this cooperation can be classified into four areas: Expanding intergovernmental cooperation to strengthen diplomatic relations, establishing trade and investment partnerships in Laos for the private sector, Attracting Chinese investors and citizens to develop greater interest in Thailand, and Promoting understanding and collaboration at the grassroots level among the three nations. This cooperation generates shared benefits in economic, social, and cultural dimensions, not only for Thailand and China but also for the Lao PDR as the host country. Additionally, this collaboration serves a wide array of goals beyond the economic scope, such as fostering cultural understanding, advancing social development, and building long-term amicable relationships. These outcomes are expected to be mutually advantageous for all three countries in the future.