ANALISIS ALASAN LAOS MELAKUKAN KERJASAMA DENGAN VIETNAM DALAM PROYEK KERETA API VIENTIANE-VUNG ANG

This research aims to analyze Laos' reasons for cooperating with Vietnam in the Vientiane-Vung Ang railway project using the Foreign Policy Analysis (FPA) approach by Valarie M. Hudson. The research method employed is qualitative explanatory through library research. Laos' decision to participate in this project is driven by a combination of internal and external factors influencing its foreign policy. Seven main aspects considered are Vietnam's connectivity potential, natural resources, strategic geographical location, demographic potential, political stability, security capabilities, and economic conditions. As a landlocked country with abundant natural resources but limited infrastructure, Laos utilizes this project to gain access to international trade through the Vung Ang port and enhance its economic competitiveness. This project is expected to create more efficient connectivity, strengthen Laos-Vietnam bilateral relations, and contribute to ASEAN's regional economic integration and Laos' sustainable development.