This book integrates European perspectives into a discussion that has traditionally been dominated by Asian and U.S. voices, analyzing the economic, strategic, and cultural elements that shape the attraction—and the friction—between the Pacific and Atlantic communities.

Preface -- The Pacific Rim and the Western World: A Cultural and Historical Introduction -- The Pacific Rim and World Politics -- Soviet Strategy and the Pacific Basin -- U.S. Military and Political Interests in East Asia -- China’s Influence in the Pacific Basin -- Security in the Pacific Basin: The Role of Japan -- Economic Development in the Pacific Rim Countries -- Transitions from Less-Developed Country to Advanced Nation Status: Case Studies of the Asia Pacific and Brazil -- The Japanese Economy: Consolidation or Continued Expansion? -- The Economic Development of the ASEAN Countries -- The Economic Development of the Newly Industrialized Countries in East Asia -- Economic Relations Between the Pacific Rim and the Western World -- Economic Relations Between the European Community and East Asia: Protectionism or Cooperation? -- Japan’s Trade and Investment Relations with the European Economic Community -- Japan’s Trade and Investment Relations with the United States -- Trade Relations of Australia, New Zealand and South Africa with East Asia -- Conclusion -- The Pacific Rim and the Western World: Conclusions and Perspectives