PROBLEMS OF THE FAR EAST IN THE XXI CENTURY

Abstract

The paper proposes a new geo-strategic approach to the development of the Far East. The geopolitical position of the Far East, its proximity to the dynamically developing countries of the region is not a sufficient precondition for the development of active economic and political relations with the countries of Asia Pacific. Adverse factors, affecting the socio-economic indicators of the region' socio-economic development, are narrow specialization and resources' oriented economy of the region, depopulation, lack of a modern business environment. For the full-scale implementation of its economic, geopolitical interests, Russia should convert Far East into a region of viable economic activity, pursuit of a balanced investment policy with Asian partners: Japan, South Korea, and especially China. Important areas of cooperation between Russia and China are the development of transport infrastructure, energy cooperation. Since between Russia and China is not only a common interest for cooperation, but also a conflict, the most favourable scenario foe the development of Russian-Chinese relations is the implementation of geo-strategic approach, based on an integrated perception of «national interests». The main benefits, which Russia can obtain from such a format of the relations, - economic growth of the Far East, and as a result, Russia's integration in Northeast Asia and the Asia-Pacific region and the status of the country - stability guarantor of the international economic system.