Russia’s role in the North-East Asian space

Abstract

Russia continues to wrestle with its identity, tending to be either a European or an Asian country, or the link between the two regions. Recently, there has been a Russian «pivot» to Asia, but in contrast to the US rebalancing in the region, Russia does not intend to take a leading role in shaping the ongoing political and economic process in accordance with the interests of the superpower. Rather, Russia shows intent to try to fit in more actively in the existing Asia-Pacific order and engage on an equal basis with other members of the region. While this process started earlier, charted by Primakov’s «strategic triangle» idea and multi-vector diplomacy, recent confrontation with the West significantly sped up the process. This article aims to review the evolution of Russia’s conceptual understanding of Asia and its own place and role in the Asia-Pacific region. Further on, the author attempts to take a brief look at major developments happening in the region, review its conflict potential and define the role of its main players. While those factors are reviewed, there is no intention to attempt a comprehensive description of the situation in the Asia- Pacific, but rather to offer an account of existing opportunities and challenges through Russia’s interests and views.