It is difficult to keep pace with the history in which we live. And yet we struggle to articulate the thread that will weave this new era and nations together. In an ironic way, the Cold War made things easy. In Asia and elsewhere, during the Cold War viewed security concerns as overriding.
Fear is a powerful motivator.
Traditional security concerns will continue to shape American foreign policy. We see constant reminders that the world remains a dangerous place, and no obligation is more important than the maintenance of international peace and security. But the end of the Cold War has broadened the concept of national security. Trade and economic development have emerged as fundamental strategic issues. International trade is at the heart of this new system.