Contents: Preface. Introduction. 1. An Overview. 2. Tradition and History: Philosophy Relogion and Literature. 3. Archaeological and Historical Findings and Perspectives. 4. Cultural and Economic Exchanges: Arts and Crafts Artisans and Merchants. 5. The Nineteenth and Twentieth Centuries: Culture and Religion Political and economic Contacts. 6. The Post War Era: Impact of Globalisation. 7. National Identity and the Revival of Traditional and Popular Culture. 8. The Challenges and Prospects of Cooperation. 9. Facing a New Millennium.