"The idea was introduced by Anatoly Chubais more than a year ago. "Liberal empire" is noting but a metaphor-there is no thought of any emperor," said Mr. Gozman.
The project suggests that Russia will see the post-Soviet environment as a zone of responsibility so as to uphold liberal and democratic freedoms in the former Soviet republics. This also implies that Russia will be protecting its own business interests in the post-Soviet environment on the basis of a liberal market model.
Leonid Gozman believes that Russia should assume responsibility for protecting the rights of ethnic Russians in the former Soviet republics. "Russia ought to ensure the rights of those who identify themselves with this country. We want this country to defend their legitimate interests," said Mr. Gozman.
In his opinion, responsibility for developments in other countries will unite the political missions of Russia and the European Union.
A world empire to integrate Russia, West Europe, the U.S. and Japan may shape up. "We want to be an equitable part in this ring," said Mr. Gozman.
