Holland, Martin. (2001) Rediscovering Europe: The New Zealand Experience. NCRE Online Paper No. 01/04. [Working Paper]
Abstract
[From the Introduction]. In the recent past, the study of the EU and Europe in general, has struggled to establish an identity in New Zealand. Despite – or perhaps because of - New Zealand’s European legacy and historical ties, Europe has often been taken for granted or even ignored in New Zealand’s search for a Pacific identity. The 1990s have witnessed a growth in Asian languages taught in New Zealand, and government sponsored initiatives such as the Asia 2000 organisation have heightened a public awareness of Asia. While such multiculturalism was over-due and has had undeniable benefits, it is now appropriate that a “rediscovery” of Europe is underway and a coherent national approach that recognises the political, commercial and cultural importance of the EU is belatedly emerging. As the 1997 Asian crisis served to underline, it is in New Zealand’s interests to adopt a multilateral perspective in international relations. With the introduction of monetary union and enlargement, the EU’s importance as a global actor has never been of greater significance for the Pacific region in general.
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