∙ India is on the way become the next new economic power, following China, by capitalizing on its low labor costs and technological advancement.
∙ The move by ASEAN leaders to draft an East Asian Free Trade agreement is a commendable one.
∙ The formation of the East Asian summit has helped resolve many economic issues and led to advancement to countries like Vietnam that are pushing forward to make a mark globally.
∙ Thailand is a symbol of economic resilience as it has arisen amidst economic currency crisis.
Para 2 : Political stability and peace
∙ North Korea’s nuclear standoff is a rising concern as the Asian countries have resorted to a long term strategy to coax Pyongyang to give up the goal of attaining nuclear arms. The six party talks have been in progression to make the Korean peninsula a nuclear free zone.
∙ Consideration for a multilateral security framework for Northeast Asia. The six-country talks could serve as a base for such a security structure. The idea is to have a 16 nation framework by involving the US.
∙ Recently visits by the Japanese and Chinese leaders to each other’s country have helped to resolve disputes and strengthen bilateral ties.
∙ Political upheaval in Thailand is a major concern for the ASEAN.
Para 3 : Commodities , security and the environment
∙ In order to deal with uncertainty in the Middle East, the Asian countries have decided to share their oil reserves. Japan and South Korea have facilities for storing oil, and China and India are moving toward securing reserves. This will help reduce the dependency on the Middle East.
∙ The creation of a multilateral security framework such as an Organization for Security is being proposed to counter the growing threat of terrorism and weapons of mass destruction as well as the spread of organized crime.
∙ The proposal to reduce emissions of global warming gases is in the pipeline for discussion and the Asian countries have been actively involved in speeding up forestation projects.
Provide some examples of how Malaysia, Indonesia and other countries are carrying out forestation and taking measures to reduce global warming.
Conclusion : The importance of having integration among Asian countries.
The integration among the Asian nations has not only helped resolve political disputes, economical crisis and social issues but has also led to the unification of the countries irrespective of size and geographical conditions. The future of Asia depends upon the co-operative ability of these countries to respect each other’s boundary, yet maintain an everlasting coalition to lead Asia into a one –nation progression.
ESSAY OUTLINE : JAPAN
Introduction: About Japan
∙ Location
∙ Why it is called the Land of the Rising Sun
∙ Geographical features in brief – volcano, neighbouring countries etc.
∙ Its capital Tokyo – a metropolitan city
∙ Currency- yen
∙ Its rulers – constitutional monarchy
Para 1 and 2: Culture and tradition
∙ Traditional Japanese arts and crafts – ikebana, origami, pottery, ukiyo-e, dolls
∙ Dances - , , , ,
∙ Traditional literature: poetry, folk legends
∙ Traditional tea ceremony
∙ Typical Japanese cuisine- staple diet –rice. In addition to rice, Japanese like bread and noodles and enjoy a wide array of sushi, meats, fishes, vegetables, and fruits.
∙ Traditional clothing: kimono. Still worn for special occasions, such as the Shichi-go-san (Seven-five-three) ceremony (a time when parents pray for the health of their children) and the New Year. A lightweight, informal kimono known as yukata is worn by children and young adults at summer festivals, fireworks, and other special occasions.
∙ Traditional dwelling: A typical Japanese house does not involve furniture like chairs or beds. You sit and sleep on the floor using cushions and futon bedding. Also add tatami mats, paper screen doors –fusuma/shoji and the guest room –zashiki.
Para 3 and 4 : Modern culture and technology
∙ Introduction of classical music from the West.
∙ Japanese cinema advances to other country-eg: Ju-On
popularity, awards, film festivals etc.
∙ Japanese anime – comic books
∙ Literature: emergence of modern authors
∙ Economic and Industrial advancement -technology giants like Toyota, Fujifilm, Sony etc.
∙ ASIMO the humanoid robot developed by Honda.
∙ Automated cars and highly developed transport system.
Conclusion: : Japan has bridged the gap between traditional and modern cultural aspects and yet retained a balance to uphold its diversity and integrity and thereby has become one of the fastest developing nations in the world.
