Patterns of Engagement: Europe-Asia Relations and Comparative Interregionalism

Abstract

This paper explores the differing approaches to conceptualizing interregionalism that have stemmed from two distinct periods in the evolution of these group to group structures: the periods of the old and the new in interregionalism. It notes the gap evident in the field of interregionalism the form of theory-guided comparative studies, and questions whether the field is yet in a position to begin filling this gap. In addressing this question, it explores the actorness-interregionalism framework of the post-bipolar period of new interregionalism, and the patterns of engagement that have begun to emerge in interregional EU-Asia relations, both in the bilateral interregional (EU-ASEAN) and transregional (ASEM) variants. It contends that these patterns are gradually becoming evident beyond the EU-Asia context, making the frameworks extrapolated from EU-Asia relations a potential foundation stone for the emergence of theory-guided comparative studies.