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system so that to become more actively involved in the integration processes underway in
the APR.
Alexander Panov,
Rector, Diplomatic Academy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Feder-
ation:
I fully agree with those who described 2010 as a successful year from the point of view of
Russia's stronger positions in the region. We finally joined the EAS and ASEM; we are still
outside the Asian Development Bank for the simple reason that Japan is dead set against
it.
We all agree that Russia should move to the East; we all agree that we should integrate. Our
understanding of integration, however, is lopsided: we move into the region but keep our
country closed. This is obvious in the Far East, to my regret. Foreigners cannot start their
businesses, especially innovative businesses, because our economic model in the Far East
(and elsewhere) rejects innovations and modernization.
There are no threats to Russia in the East while its possibilities are practically unlimited;
they are limited only by our economic weakness and shortage of intellectual ideas.
Alexander Lukin,
Director, Center for East Asian and SCO Studies, Moscow State Institute (Uni-
versity) of International Relations, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation:
Russia's position in the APR is far from brilliant. Those who said here that foreign policy
should serve domestic aims were right. It is equally true that a country without real achieve-
ments at home, with no inner force and influence in the region cannot be very active outside
its borders.
There is also a cultural factor. What can Russia offer the region in the form of what is called
soft power? Practically nothing: all our cultural performers, writers and other figures are
West-oriented.
We should develop bilateral cooperation, encourage trade and improve our trade balance.
In fact, it is one of our weakest points; since 2007, our trade balance with China remains
negative; the structure of trade needs attention.
It is too early to talk about global problems: we should work consistently to gradually build
up Russia's greater presence in the region.
Kirill Barsky,
Deputy Director, Asia-Pacific Cooperation Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
of the Russian Federation:
I totally agree with Mr. Panov who said that Russia is not threatened in the Far East and
the APR.
This is not a simple region; it is brimming with problems and disagreements; it is dotted
with seats of conflicts and is torn apart by mutual mistrusts. This creates an impression
that regional security is fairly fragile; from time to time passions flow high.
A reliable and effective APR architecture fits the interests of all forces which need political
stability and sustainable development. This fits the interests of Russia as well: today, the
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