Vietnam's Maritime Economic Cooperation with ASEAN Countries (1995-2024)

This study examines the process of formation, development, and outcomes of maritime economic cooperation between Vietnam and the member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) from 1995 to 2024. The focus of this research is the cooperation in the maritime economy between the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and ASEAN member states during the period from 1995 to 2024. The subject of the study includes key directions, mechanisms, forms, and outcomes of maritime economic cooperation between Vietnam and ASEAN countries, as well as the institutional and legal aspects of interaction within bilateral and multilateral formats during the specified period. The aim of the work is to evaluate the effectiveness of cooperation, identify key challenges, and analyze the role of Vietnam in promoting regional maritime initiatives. The research is based on the liberal theory of international relations, which emphasizes the importance of international institutions and norms in facilitating cooperation. The methodology includes analyzing ASEAN documents, specialized UN agencies, Vietnamese authorities, comparing statistical, regulatory, and political data, as well as studying interaction models. The novelty of the work lies in a comprehensive assessment of maritime economic cooperation between Vietnam and ASEAN over almost three decades, with a focus on contemporary trends in "blue" economy in the post-pandemic period. Special attention is given to Vietnam's initiatives: the development of the Cai Mep-Thi Vai deep-water port, combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and restoring marine ecosystems, including coral reefs, mangrove forests, and coastal ecosystems with high biological value. The results obtained confirm Vietnam's significant contribution to enhancing the region's competitiveness in global logistics chains and strengthening its role in ASEAN maritime projects. At the same time, challenges remain related to policy inconsistencies, limited financial and technological resources, and threats to non-traditional maritime security. In this regard, it is proposed to strengthen institutional coordination, expand the participation of the private sector, and activate Vietnam's role in promoting initiatives for creating a sustainable and secure maritime space.