ASEAN-Indochinese Relations from the British Perspective, 1989-1993

Abstract

This research aimed to study the historical development of relations between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Indochinese countries between 1989 and 1993 and to identify the attitude of the British government vis-à-vis ASEAN policy towards the Indochinese states during this period. Analysis drew on the Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s recently declassified archival documents held at the National Archives at Kew in the United Kingdom. The research found that the ASEAN member states were generally supportive of the inclusion of Indochinese states in the organization. The level of support for Myanmar/Burma’s membership varied, with Thailand being the most supportive. Although ASEAN coherence was high, there were uncertainties as to the effects of the Indochinese states’ membership on the organization. The British were initially skeptical of Vietnam’s capacity for economic and political reform, but became more supportive. Indochinese developments were not the main hindrance to ASEAN and European Community relations. Instead, the Portuguese position regarding Indonesia and East Timor proved to be the main obstacle.