Original scientific paper
Strategic Implications of the Possible Construction of the Thai Canal
Ivica Kinder
; Personnel Directorate of the General Staff of the Croatian Armed Forces
Abstract
Oil supplies coming from the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf to South East and East Asia are mostly shipped through the Strait of Malacca. There has been a long-standing idea to dig a canal through Thailand's part of the Malay Peninsula, the so-called Thai Canal, which would create a new sea lane of communication. It would allow ships to move between the Indian and Pacific Oceans without having to pass through the Strait of Malacca. The Canal would not just relieve pressure on the Strait in terms of maritime security, but would also cut transportation costs significantly. Despite the economic advantages, the possible construction and use of the Thai Canal could pose certain political and security concerns.
Keywords
Thai Canal; transportation; energy; security; cooperation
Hrčak ID:
28552
URI
Publication date:
1.8.2008.
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