Проблемы восприятия белорусско-российской интеграции странами Центральной и Восточной Европы и странами Запада

Abstract

The author in her article reviews the integrational process between Belarus and Russia. The positions, assessments and forecasts of a number of Western academics, politicians and experts in the field of Belarus—Russia integration are set out. The positive points as well as problem issues are noted. The article points out that the integrational process is important and necessary for both countries and priority should be given to economic integration via the customs union, the common market, the introduction of a single currency etc. The necessity of fostering democratic institutions both in Belarus and Russia is drawn attention to. The article also stresses that only in case the sovereign rights of the integrating member-states are not infringed upon, the disbalance in democratic institutes and economic and political systems of Russia and Belarus is eliminated and the economy progresses to a high level, the integrational process between Belarus and Russia will become attractive and non-threatening for their neighbours.