Final answer:
The border/highland regions between Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar, part of 'Zomia', are known for their opium production. Myanmar, in particular, contributes to the Golden Triangle's drug trade. The area's challenging geography, including high peaks and the Mekong River, complements its role in the opium and heroin trade.
Step-by-step explanation:
The border/highland regions of Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar, which are part of "Zomia", are significant for several reasons. One important aspect is the opium production in this area, particularly in Myanmar's segment of the Golden Triangle, which is a key income source for the country's economy. Myanmar has been contrasted with nations like North Korea and Somalia in terms of authoritative rule and human rights issues, and the drug trade plays a role in the nation's challenges. While Myanmar is a leading producer of opium, it is not the largest in the world; that title goes to Afghanistan, which supplies a significant portion of Europe's heroin.
The rugged, mountainous geography of this region, with peaks reaching considerable heights in both Thailand and Laos, is a natural environment for opium poppy cultivation. Despite its beauty, the remoteness of the mountainous terrain has made it a haven for the drug trade. The Mekong River also plays a crucial role in the geography of Laos, providing irrigation and transportation throughout the region.
The region's role in drug production has had international consequences, with Afghan poppies being transported to South America to support the drug trade there. Tourism has been growing in Laos, bringing attention to this remote area, while the fight against drug cartels continues in countries across the globe, including Colombia in South America, indicating how interconnected these issues are.