Continental ASEAN: The complex geopolitical landscapes requiring cross-border cooperation

Abstract

Trilateral cooperation between China, Thailand and Myanmar against transnational crimes was witnessed starting from February. Thailand limited electricity, fuel, and internet access at five Myanmar sites with which were confirmed to be centers of cybercrimes. The central Myanmar government limited fuel to these sites, implemented stricter border management to hinder scam operators from fleeing Myanmar, and transferred the victims, primarily Chinese, to Thailand. Comprehensive knowledge and proven methodologies, focusing on pollution monitoring enhancement and ambitious reduction strategies that have already transformed Beijing's skyline from grey to clear, will be transferred to Bangkok.  In March, a massive earthquake originating from Mandalay killed more than 3,700 people and caused major damage in Myanmar. Bangkok was shaken and the new State Audit Office (SAO) building collapsed, killing 96 workers, while other buildings remained intact. Thai media highlighted the role of Thai-Chinese joint venture companies that were involved the project. Evidence and testimony from experts suggested the building plan did not meet standards and codes. The police charged 17 directors, contractors, nominees, engineers and architects from Thai and Chinese companies with the felony of professional negligence causing death. In April, Thailand reported 4 anthrax cases in a province along Thailand-Laos border. Across the Mekong River, Laos reported anthrax infections in 2024 and Vietnam reported cases in 2023 underscoring the porous nature of zoonotic disease transmission across the region.