University internationalization: the eastern dimension

The article belongs to a conceptual category and is aimed at looking into different aspects of cooperation between Russian universities and universities from PRC and Central Asian region both within the existing agreements between countries and networking regional partnerships. It is based on a comparative analysis of statistical data and analysis of national and international publications in the given field, experience of authors and general view of regional higher educational institution internalization on the basis of regional partnership and cross - border cooperation. The article covers relevant discussion points concerning efficacy of Shanghai Organization of Cooperation University functioning, broadening bilateral mobility and development of master double diploma programs. The writing of this article was predetermined by the need to determine the place and role of Russian regional institutions in the international educational space considering geopolitical interests of Russia, economic position of countries participating in different educational cooperation programs, level of internationalization of the university. In order to formulate and achieve the aims stated for this article authors use systematic approach to internationalization of higher educational institution. Conclusions made by the authors can be applied to international activity of regional universities looking for new forms of cooperation and strengthening existing links with higher educational institutions from Central Asia and PRC. They are of interest for higher educational institutions from Siberia and Far East, as well as from the Ural Federal Area. The novelty of this article is in suggestion on creating "growth points" for university networking partnership - international (Russian - Chinese) campuses.