On-line journal no. 4 – July 2012 - Modelling the New Europe

On-line Journal Modelling the New Europe
Issue no. 4/2012
LOOKING BEYOND A PERPETUAL REGIONAL DEADLOCK
RUSSIA’S NATIONAL INTERESTS AND ITS INVOLVEMENT IN THE
BLACK SEA REGIONAL COOPERATION
Oana Poiană, PhD candidate
Faculty of European Studies, Universitatea Babeș-Bolyai, Cluj-Napoca,
Email address: pnoana@yahoo.com
Abstract: The present study examines whether the last evolutions in 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
projects 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.
Keywords: Black Sea region, Russia, European Union, National interest, Energy security, Regional
cooperation
18