EastWest relations from "summary" of Years of Renewal by Henry Kissinger
The relations between East and West have been a central feature of international politics for centuries. In the post-World War II era, these relations were defined by the Cold War, which pitted the United States and its Western allies against the Soviet Union and its Eastern bloc. The ideological, military, and economic competition between these two superpowers shaped global affairs and dominated the international agenda. During my time as Secretary of State in the 1970s, I sought to transform EastWest relations by engaging in a policy of détente with the Soviet Union. This policy was based on the idea that the two superpowers could coexist peacefully and work together on areas of common interest, while managing their differences through dialogue and diplomacy. By reducing tensions and promoting cooperation, détente helped to prevent the outbreak of a nuclear war and laid the groundwork for improved relations between East and West. However, the end of the Cold War in the late 1980s fundamentally transformed the landscape of EastWest relations. With the collapse of the Soviet Union and the subsequent dissolution of the Eastern bloc, the old geopolitical order came to an end. The United States emerged as the world's sole superpower, while Russia and the former Soviet republics faced a period of profound political and economic upheaval. In the post-Cold War era, EastWest relations took on a new significance as the international community grappled with the challenges of globalization, terrorism, and the rise of new regional powers. The United States sought to engage with Russia and other former Soviet states in order to build a more stable and peaceful world order. At the same time, tensions between East and West persisted in areas such as NATO expansion, missile defense, and human rights. As we look to the future, the concept of EastWest relations remains as relevant as ever. In an increasingly interconnected world, the need for cooperation and dialogue between East and West is essential to address global challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and nuclear proliferation. By building on the lessons of the past, we can work towards a more prosperous and secure future for all nations.
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