The Necessity of Integration in Asia |
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14 August 2007 |
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Abstract Asia as big and ancient continent was not able in the past to define itself as a coherent entity. This was partly the result of geographical dispersion; religious, linguistic and cultural difference; different political and economic systems; and emergence of disputes and wars. Recent developments in the international system characterized by globalization, regionalism and emphasis on economic growth, have brought about new conditions for Asia. Four important political and economic changes have attracted attention to Asia: rapid economic growth; political and security developments; energy security; and emergence of new powers. Having elaborated on the developments in Asia, this article studies the consequences of the abovementioned developments for the rest of the world; economic development as the axis of Asia identity; geopolitics and Asian security; enhancing Asian common feelings; formation of an Asian collective security system; developing Asian cooperation; and energy security as the axis of Asian solidarity.
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