Concept and Function of the ACMECS

Abstract

The end of the Cold War facilitated the expansion of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to include Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam (CLMV), all with lower economic standards than the original six members. Within this expanded framework, sub-regions have been formed, among them the Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS), followed by a Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam Development Triangle and now by the Ayeyawadi-Chao Praya-Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy (ACMECS). The latter was initiated by Thai Premier Thaksin Shinawatra. The Bagan declaration of 2003 sets out its aims. External partners are there and now this forum resembles a mini-ASEAN, with the detailed programmes and schedules of meetings that it has. But the promotion of ACMECS also enriches Thaksin's business empire, while there is some hint here of Sino-Japanese rivalry. In a globalised world, ACMECS cannot afford to be a closed group and it will not be long before India is invited to join.