ABSTRACT
The level of confrontation between the Eastern and Western powers was reduced in Austria in part because both sides saw Germany and Berlin as more significant foci for dispute. Austria participated in the Marshall Plan, and a good part of the funds paid for erection of dams and expansion of heavy industry in the Western Zones. Beginning in 1960 Austria undertook a modest foreign aid program, much of it devoted to putting Austria's excellent scientific and educational facilities at the disposal of underdeveloped countries. During the war the activity and power of the federal government in Switzerland expanded rapidly. Switzerland continues to be a location of choice for large and competitive industries in such fields as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and machinery; it is also a headquarters of international organizations and for multinational conference. Ireland is economically dependent on Britain, which in 1982 accounted for approximately 38.8 percent of Ireland's exports and 48 percent of its imports.
