Japan: back to the future

Article Abstract:

Japan's economic downturn is unlikely to foreshadow an economic collapse, since the Japanese have shown an ability to turn around economically tenuous situations. Some political turmoil has accompanied the economic problems, but voters do not seem ready to turn away from a system which has brought them substantial economic benefits. The Liberal Democratic Party will probably continue its coalition-building with smaller opposition parties to get specific laws through the Diet. Domestic uncertainties leave Japan with limited interest in being part of the 'new international order.'

Japan

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North Korea after Kim II-sung

Article Abstract:

The death of Kim II-sung has left a void in North Korea; Kim's son has not been able to step into his father's shoes successfully despite prior political grooming. North Korean economy is not in good condition. North Korea did not allow the inspection of its nuclear research reactor at Youngbyon by the International Atomic Energy Agency and threatened to withdraw from the Non-proliferation treaty. Former US President Carter's effort to bring about a North-South Korean summit and US-North Korean talks on nuclear inspection did not succeed because of Kim II-sung's death.

North Korea, Nuclear nonproliferation

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Europe to the rescue?

Article Abstract:

Hong Kong may play a pivotal role in the future political and economic relations between China and the European Union (EU) after its turnover to China in July 1997. EU countries appear to have differing views on the priorities of potential Chinese human rights issues and the importance of ongoing business relations with Hong Kong. It remains to be seen how effective agreements made within the Joint Declaration will be in balancing these issues.

Europe, International aspects, International relations, International economic relations, Hong Kong, Hong Kong foreign relations, Hong Kong-China reunification question

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