Lancang-Mekong Cooperation: A Cambodian Perspective

Abstract

Regionalism or sub-regionalism in the Mekong region has gained new momentum after China launched the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) in 2015 as part of China’s diplomatic and political advances in this region. In January 2018, Cambodia, as the rotating co-chair, successfully hosted the 2nd LMC Summit by injecting new ambitions and future action plans into the equation. Notably, three years after its inception, the LMC has become a prominent sub-regional institution in the Mekong region, and can be expected to influence and shape the region’s geopolitical, economic, social and ecological landscape. The Mekong countries have expressed support for the China-led LMC in varying degrees. Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam are more cautious of China’s strategic intentions compared to Cambodia and Laos which are relatively comfortable and confident in accepting China’s geo-economic presence. Cambodia is most enthusiastic of China-led multilateral mechanisms, including the LMC, due to its own economic and political considerations. This Perspective discusses Cambodian perspectives on the LMC and discusses the challenges facing LMC and its prospects.