Expert of the Russian strategic research institute Tamara Guzenkova told in an exclusive interview with RIA Novosti that this event is more important and meaningful than simply demonstration of mutual understanding of the presidents shortly before the presidential elections in one of these countries. This meeting can be considered in the context of more serious events and processes. The point at issue is above all the signing of a number of agreements and understandings on creating the Common Economic Space between Belarus, Kazakhstan, Russia and Ukraine. Economic cooperation is usually referred to as a basis and the determining factor in relations between the former Soviet republics, but, according to Ms. Guzenkova a moment comes when it turns out that economic cooperation and declaration of its priority are not enough. She believes that we should speak here about the restoration of cultural and spiritual ties but in a new form.
Tamara Guzenkova says it is now difficult to speak about a strong Slavic union, but, nevertheless, a serious attempt of such integration is being made now - cultural integration between the countries, on the one side, and intra-Slavic integration on the other.
Summing up its commentary, Ms. Guzenkova stressed that if this event serves the restoration of cultural ties between the three states this will be a very good result of the youth festival.
