Laos Deepens Military Ties with China
From July 5-19, China and Laos commenced joint military exercises, known as the "Laos-China Friendship Shield-2024,". This marked the latest chapter in a growing military partnership between the two nations.
The exercises involved approximately 900 Laotian and 300 Chinese troops, with a focus on technical cooperation, weapons handling, and joint maneuvers. Notably, China introduced its advanced QBZ-191 assault rifle to the Laotian military. Moreover, the integration of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) into the drills underscored China's intent to test and potentially share this technology with its ally.
While Laos sought to modernize its military and benefit from Chinese expertise, the exercises also served broader geopolitical interests. China's involvement in these drills is seen as an effort to expand its influence in Southeast Asia as Laos' geographical location, bordering China and situated along the Mekong River, offers geostrategic advantages for Beijing.
This deepening military ties between the two nations occurred against the backdrop of Laos' significant debt burden, primarily owed to China. Many of these debts are linked to infrastructure projects under Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative. This economic dependence raises concerns about Laos' ability to maintain its independence in broader foreign and domestic policy decisions.
