Now the gates are wide open and the free movement of peoples in the 21st century should be a major factor in the integration of our societies. The strong cultures of Eastern and Central Europe produced some of the great universities of the world. It is even more remarkable that during the period of almost fifty years of communist dominance, the universities remained basically committed to their historic values and culture. I have had the privilege of visiting many of them-from the Baltics to Croatia. One semester, a year or even more of study in another culture will lead to greater respect and understanding of the global environment of the 21st century.
Young people are generally more open to other points of view and different cultures.
We can preserve the mosaic of cultures and at the same time promote respect for one another. Teenage athletes, cultural groups and others with the enthusiasm of young people can be the foundation of a new world order. Our governments should encourage and facilitate these exchange programs that can help in paving the road to greater integration. While the 21st century should place a greater focus on integration in the Euro-Atlantic communities, it also should be sensitive to preserving their respective cultures, especially those of Eastern and Central Europe that survived decades of oppression. As the significant world power, the US should avoid giving the appearance of being indifferent to these cultures.