The Asia-Pacific region in the 1990s is facing the challenge of transition from the Cold War to new security and political relations. This period for the North Pacific may be as critical as was the decade of the 1950s for Europe and trans-Atlantic relations. The objective of this project is to study possible approaches to a new vision of regional security -- comprehensive, non-confrontational, based upon multilateral cooperation. In the post-Cold War, post-Soviet Union international environment, non-conventional approach to security problems could be based more on preemptive measures, rather than deterrence. The project's special emphasis is on the multilateral, non-exclusive solutions required to ensure long-term regional stability. New subregional relations should encourage positive changes in the security environment, provide a room for economic progress, cooperation and cross-cultural contacts in the North Pacific in general and Sea of Japan region in particular.