Now, the Siberian cities of Tomsk and Barnaul are closer to the geographical center of Russia than Moscow and St. An association of Russia with Northern Asia assumes that it and countries located in Southern Asia could establish more close economic and trade cooperation, in the perspective, - a large free trade zone similar to a free trade zone being developed between Northern and Southern Americas. Real cultural and humanitarian values cannot be affected by classifications or schemas whatever they are. Just because many Russian intellectuals felt that there is a gap between Russia and Europe, and many sensitive visitors and scholars were surprised by differences in life-styles. Asia was the home of several sophisticated ancient societies and cultures.
Many countries located in Asia can proudly derive their traditions from that cultural heritage.
Furthermore, if European countries do not mind against the American mass-culture influence, Russia may be even more comfortable with penetration of Arabic, Chinese, Indian and Japanese traditions into everyday life. The prolongated turmoil in the Russian economy and society prevents having a clear and simple view on the country. But the country for a long time needs a simple and generative metaphor that will help to understood its role in the modern world. Questions where is the eastern border of Europe and arguments for and against the name Northern Asia for Russia may go on forever. Let's stop here.