No Flaws or Blemishes; Gift Quality. --- The performance of Asian and African economies over recent decades has clearly shown that engagement with the global economy can play a key role in advancing development. Researchers and policymakers have paid particular attention to the marked divergence in growth in Southeast Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. One of the most obvious differences in their performance and economic structure has been the extent of their participation in the global economy. While many East Asian economies have accelerated their integration into the world economy and upgraded their mode of linkages, the majority of sub-Saharan African countries have been increasingly marginalized.