Mechanisms of policy cooperation between Thailand and China on the new overseas Chinese in Thailand under BRI context

Abstract

In this research entitled “Mechanisms of policy cooperation between Thailand and China on the new overseas Chinese in Thailand under BRI context,” the objectives were to study (1) the mechanism of network buildings of the new overseas Chinese in Thailand under the context of Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) (2) the interaction between the new overseas Chinese Associations and the Thai government sectors (3) the mechanism development for promoting people-to-people exchanges and networking opportunities. This research was qualitative research consisting of documentary research and field research. The research found that since 1978 the number of new overseas Chinese migrating to Thailand has increased enormously. The new overseas Chinese in Thailand has an important role for trade and investment under the BRI context. New overseas Chinese who became nationalized Thai citizens are able to establish the associations with network buildings. The study found that interactions between the new Chinese associations and Thai governmental sectors in 4 dimensions showed different interactions. Many new overseas Chinese business associations are very active in trading and investment, however, there has been only a symbolic interaction in the establishment of friendship cities between Thailand and China. Many new Chinese associations interact moderately in education and culture, but have no interaction on security issues.