CKM Matrix: Present and Future

Abstract

We review the present status of the CKM matrix and we offer some visions of its future. After a brief presentation of the theoretical framework for weak decays we discuss the following topics: i) CKM matrix from tree level decays, ii) Standard analysis of the unitarity triangle, iii) CKM matrix from rare and CP violating K- and B-decays, iv) CKM matrix from CP violation in two-body B-decays. In particular we compare the CKM potentials of the standard analysis of the unitarity triangle, of the very clean K --> \pi\nu\bar\nu decays and of CP asymmetries in B-decays.