Introduction

The global economic centre of gravity is shifting from the West to the East. Today, Asia is the home to about 60 per cent of the world's population and produces nearly 40 per cent of the world's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Asia is growing rapidly and in the absence of a major distraction is likely to produce more than a half of global GDP by 2050. Against this backdrop, the authors initiated a research project – "Economic Cooperation in Asia Based on Japan-China Relationship" – to examine Japan and China's leadership role in regional economic integration and development. This chapter highlights the lively discussions that took place during the workshop. It raises public awareness, especially in China and Japan, that their competition and cooperation are not only beneficial for them but also for Asia and the wider world.