Features of Russian foreign policy in the Asia-Pacific region at the present stage

Abstract

This article examines the features of Russian foreign policy in the Asia-Pacifi c region at the present stage of international relations. The authors consider the directions of Russia's multivector course, multilateral and regional structures and associations. The article, based on a systematic approach, examines the Asia-Pacifi c vector of Russian foreign policy at the present stage in order to obtain a holistic, comprehensive picture of the current situation. Using structural and functional analysis, the authors examine the features and characteristics of Russian foreign policy in the Asia-Pacifi c region, and also evaluate their eff ectiveness in changing conditions. The following features are analyzed in detail: multipolarity, the importance of strategic partners, energy cooperation, and security. In the analysis, special attention is paid to Russian-Chinese relations due to their growth and signifi cance, especially in the trade and economic sphere. In addition to the above methods of political science, the authors use the method of analyzing the current situation, as well as the analysis of global changes. The article highlights the reasons for the interest of the countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in investments in the Russian Far East: geographical proximity, economic cooperation, investment potential, similarity of opinions regarding the formation of a multipolar world order, as well as a bilateral regulatory framework. Based on the analysis of statistical data, the authors analyze the development of the Far East, exploring the Eastern Economic Forum, comparing the annual dynamics of trade turnover of entities located in the Far Eastern Federal District, the volume of outgoing foreign direct investment by destination countries. As prospects for the further development of Russia in the Asia-Pacifi c region in modern conditions, the authors identify and consider three factors (foreign policy, economic and social) that directly infl uence Russian foreign policy in the region. The novelty of the article should also be indicated, namely, using the method of scenario forecasting, the authors identifi ed three scenarios for the conduct and development of Russian foreign policy in the Asia-Pacifi c region at the present stage, designed for 15–20 years: global/regional regulation (positive), integration dimension (negative), cooperation 2.0 (fantastic). The authors come to the conclusion that the most likely is a positive scenario, and the ongoing multi-vector Russian foreign, economic and investment policy allows the country to remain part of the Asia-Pacific region.