LOOKING BEYOND A PERPETUAL DEADLOCK RUSSIA'S NATIONAL INTERESTS AND ITS INVOLVEMENT IN THE BLACK SEA REGIONAL COOPERATION

Summary/Abstract: The present study examines whether the last evolutions of the Black Sea Region support the region-building project proposed by the European Union or it asks for a reassessment considering the last issues the Black Sea states were faced with. It also aims to determine whether Russia decided to strengthen its national identity and pursue its national interests instead of actively participating in regional cooperation in the last ten years and what are the major reasons behind its actions. To answer these questions the study utilizes two indicators that examine Russian involvement in regional and institutional schemes of cooperation and its regional cooperation in the energy sector. Using mainly qualitative research instruments, the study determines Russia's current position towards the region emphasizing the major issues the European Union should take into consideration when formulating a strategy for the Black Sea Region

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