Abstract:

The aim of the proposed research consists in outlining prospects of cluster mechanism application and verification of the cluster strategy in view of innovative development of cross-border regions against the background on strengthening integration processes. The work is dedicated to research of theoretical, methodical and applicable basis of strategic management of development of international integration associations as network-like structures of intra-branch and inter-branch cooperation on their mesolevel. The research method is based on mesoeconomic synthesis of development concepts in industrial and innovative clusters and international integration associations. To the authors’ opinion, it enables to work out both mechanism and scientific understanding of development trends in modern integration systems. The scientific hypothesis of the proposed work suggests that the cluster approach is the most efficient mechanism of development of international economic cooperation under modern conditions and, finally, is a mesolevel of competitive international integration systems and necessary pre-condition of qualitative progress of integration of Ukraine into the EU. The authors propose to develop integration processes of mesolevel within the framework of unified economic space basing upon clustering. Concept, structure and life cycle of net forms of self-organization of a cross-border economic space in conditions of developing a postmodern economy are considered. Conclusion is drawn to state that the cross-border clusters concept construes an approach adequate to modern challenges to stimulate economic development of peripheral regions with inherent features and advantages taking into account comprehensive dynamic competition and coordination of problems of meso– and macrolevels with conditions accompanying operation and activity of particular business entities. Under such circumstances, cluster policy consists in creating conditions for formation and development of cross-border clusters, but, under no circumstances, in artificial generation of such clusters. Theoretical positions and methodological approaches to the formation of industrial clusters within European regions are systematized. The essence of cross-border and internal relationships of the cluster as a factor in increasing competitiveness in the increasingly Euroregion integration processes and the need to enhance the role of peripheral regions within the framework of crossborder cooperation. The strategic priorities for spatial development of new forms of cross-border cooperation in the context of regional policy of the EU are outlined.

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