Vietnam's insistence on including Laos and Cambodia on maps isn't difficult to understand.
This insistence stems from multiple factors, including historical, geopolitical, geographical, and cultural aspects.
Firstly, Vietnam endured long periods of colonial rule during the colonial era, often being in the position of the colonizer's "second fiddle." With the withdrawal of colonizers, Vietnam naturally developed ambitions to annex surrounding regions.
This mindset, similar to India's, aims to fill the void left by the colonizers and become the dominant force in the region. However, Vietnam's ambitions are constrained by more powerful forces.
From this perspective, Vietnam's aspirations aren't inherently right or wrong, as in international relations, might often makes right.
Secondly, Vietnam perceives itself as inheriting France's legacy in Southeast Asia, including French colonies like Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam itself. Consequently, Vietnam has dreamt of establishing an Indochina Federation led by itself.
This sense of heritage fuels Vietnam's strong desire for regional leadership.
To achieve this dream, Vietnam has even resorted to invading Cambodia and attempted to economically control Laos. However, this ambition hasn't gained universal recognition and support from the international community, facing resistance and opposition from other regional countries.
Furthermore, Vietnam stretches 1650 kilometers from north to south and is narrowest at only 50 kilometers from east to west.
Therefore, it's inappropriate to omit Laos and Cambodia on maps.
This isn't just a geographic necessity but also an accurate reflection of regional relationships.
Vietnam has close geostrategic ties with Laos and Cambodia, with frequent cultural, economic, and political exchanges in history.
Including these countries on maps helps accurately represent Vietnam's geopolitical relations and cultural connections with neighboring countries.
Lastly, despite no longer being rulers of Cambodia and Laos, Vietnam still includes them on maps, demonstrating its desire for leadership in the Indochinese Peninsula.
Historically, Vietnam has seen itself as the leader of the Indochinese Peninsula, aiming to consolidate its influence in the region by establishing an Indochina Federation.
Even though both countries have joined the United Nations, Vietnam's geopolitical ambitions persist.
Vietnam's inclusion of Laos and Cambodia on maps isn't merely a simple act but reflects its geopolitical strategy and regional influence.
In summary, Vietnam's insistence on including Laos and Cambodia on maps is a comprehensive reflection of historical, geopolitical, geographical, and cultural factors.
This insistence mirrors Vietnam's desire for its position and influence in the Indochinese Peninsula, while also reflecting its historical and cultural identity.
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