ABSTRACT
A leading Soviet official explained that the processes of integration in Western Europe had intensified. Their 'contradictory' nature notwithstanding, the realities had to be taken into account. Another 'channel of dialogue with Western Europe' was needed. The official made clear that the new policy line was not simply shaped by pragmatism. Prior to 1986-7, the Soviet side tended to emphasize the negative economic implications which West European integration would be likely to have for the socialist countries. Until 1985, the Soviet attitude toward West European integration was essentially negative. The European Community (EC) was portrayed as little other than an instrument to bolster North Atlantic Treaty Organization by strengthening its European pillar. Under Mikhail Gorbachev, Soviet policy toward Europe has simultaneously become more pragmatic and more principled. Previous unwillingness to accept the EC as a fact of international life has been overcome. The Soviet Union can hope that the EC, while entailing risk, offers economic and political opportunities as well.
