The integration of regions and quality of economic space

The article defines the role of integrative interaction of regions in their socio- economic development and preconditions the development of integration processes. The authors reveal the interdependence of economic space quality and the intensity of integration processes. The quality of economic space is seen as a factor of regions’ readiness for integration interaction. In this regard, an attempt is made to assess the available opportunities for interregional cooperation and the intensity of integration processes in the subjects of the North Caucasus Federal district. Chronological period for assessment of analytical indicators is the period from 2008 to 2013. The authors conducted a ranking of subjects of the North Caucasus Federal district by the main characteristics of the economic space and assessment of the level of integration. On the basis of calculations the authors make conclusions about the degree of realization of integration potential of regions. The analysis revealed the discrepancy between the average level of integration activity with the average level of assessment of economic space quality in many subjects of the district. A number of regions of the North Caucasus Federal district are being outsiders by coefficient of integration, despite the favorable conditions for interregional cooperation. Most regions of the district are not fulfilling their potential for integration. On the other hand, some regions, despite the generalized low score for integration in the current conditions, became the leaders of the district on integration cooperation. Taking into account that integration processes contribute to the improvement of the characteristics of the economic space and increase the competitiveness of regional economy, the issues of intensification of interregional economic cooperation are brought up to date. Stimulation of the integration activity is possible on the basis of improving the quality of economic space by improving the existing infrastructure of the complex, providing maintenance and integration of regions. In this regard it seems appropriate to create and support the integration of different forms of spatial organization, to improve the existing infrastructure complex, providing maintenance and integration of regions, to develop an overall strategy for the district integration processes, etc.