Transport Infrastructure Connectivity Through the Mekong–India Economic Corridor: A Case Study of India and Vietnam

Abstract

Transport infrastructure connectivity plays an important role in promoting trade between two countries, and creates an impetus for economic development and international cooperation. A synchronous, modern, flexible and appropriate transport infrastructure connectivity system promotes trade, boosts productivity and efficiency of cooperation, and promotes linkages between countries. The Mekong–India Economic Corridor (MIEC) is considered a bridge between India and the Mekong sub-region, including the CLMV countries (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam). Despite the position of an end point in the connectivity system, Vietnam is an important factor in India’s Look East strategy. Enhancing transport infrastructure connectivity through the MIEC will help promote Vietnam–India comprehensive strategic partnership effectively. The paper, based on objective assessment, presents an in-depth perspective on the transport infrastructure connectivity between Vietnam and India through the MIEC and figures out the bottlenecks in connectivity, cooperation and development between the two countries.

Geo-Economic Analysis Based on an Improved Ant Colony Optimization

“…The China-Myanmar International Railway on the western route of the Trans-Asian Railway and the China-Myanmar Oil and Gas Pipeline, which is the fourth-largest energy import corridor, are the main geopolitical corridors between China and Myanmar and important nodes in the expansion of the geopolitical relations network in Southeast Asia. Vietnam is also actively building various transnational infrastructures as the basis for economic corridors [55]. The closest route between South Korea and China is only 102 nautical miles and includes approximately 12 ports and 15 shipping routes, making communication among countries convenient in all areas.…”