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Asia Awakening examines ways countries are modernizing in a global era. It paints a picture of Asian economic and cultural life. It provides insight into the countries that are influencing global institutions, such as the G20, as well as the world markets, media and transactions.
Many people have named the 21st Century as the "Pacific Century." It is for good reason that the region is earning respect. Rather than turning away from the world, most Asian countries have strategically embraced globalization. They have negotiated key trade pacts with each other, tightening economic transactions, production lines and infrastructures. And they have further reached out to trade partners in Europe, Latin America and the United States. But key questions remain about whether Asia will live up to its potential.
According to one observer,
"the Awakening of Asia is the most important feature in the world-politics of our time." It is interesting that that statement was uttered not at the beginning of this century but early in the last century. Writing in the Fortnightly Review in October of 1916, H.M. Hyndman said Asian nations were gaining strength and autonomy while European powers had been weakened by war.
Nearly one hundred years later, writers are still proclaiming that the rise of Asia will be the most important event of our time. With a combined population approaching 4 billion people and an $18.5 trillion economy, Asia deserves the attention. The region is dynamic and diverse. Traditions evolve yet remain constant. Its cities are modern representations of our high-tech times.
Asia Today
3.8 Billion People (56.3% of the world) * 47 Countries * Exports: $3.79 Trillion/year * Imports: $3.5 Trillion/year * 764 Million Internet Users (2010)
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