The issue of Russian identity—whether Russia belongs to Europe or Asia or is unique and distinct—has been debated for nearly three centuries within and outside Russia. Though Russia's relation with Europe was central to the debate, Asia also figured prominently in it. The article tries to examine Asia's role in the shaping of Russian identity. The issue has acquired further importance in the recent years as post-Soviet Russia is faced with the task of defining its place in the present day world.
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