Soviet-U.S. Cooperation for Africa as as a Confidence-Building Measure

Abstract

Soviet-American cooperation for Africa can be an important confidence-building measure in reducing tensions, correcting misperceptions, promoting mutual understanding, fostering improved bilateral U.S.-U.S.S.R. relations, and creating trust. It could also lead to further cooperation in other fields or regions. At various times people have cited trade, cultural exchanges, exchanges of visitors, student exchanges, arms control agreements, and cooperation in space as initiatives that could be interpreted as confidence-building measures. All are valuable, and each can play a role in improving bilateral relations.