The European Community and Eastern Europe: An Evolving Relationship (Chatham House Papers)

Economic reforms and new policies in both Western and Eastern Europe have stimulated a debate on how best to restructure the relationships between them through association and possible enlargement of the European Community. This paper surveys the emerging patterns of trade, economic co-operation and financial links. It examines both the economic interest and instruments of the European Community and the political options. These issues are assessed in the light of perestroika in the Soviet Union and reforms in Eastern Europe.