FORMATION OF THEORETICAL APPROACHES TO THE REGIONAL ECONOMIC RESEARCH, BY IDENTIFYING THE CONCEPT OF "COMPETITIVENESS OF THE REGION"
In this paper the theoretical approaches to the definition of «regional competitiveness» are presented. A critical analysis of existing interpretations of the concepts of «regional competitiveness» of various authors avail-able in modern scientific literature is conducted. On the basis of conducted critical analysis and demanded the formulation of the concepts proposed author´s interpretation of the concept of «competitiveness of the region». Formed in the article definition is based on the rules of formal logics. It is defined by the nearest kind and specific difference, is proportionate, does not contain the «circle», does not contain logical contradictions. The proposed author´s interpretation of the concept allows to determine accurate criteria and requirements to ensure the competitiveness, to analyze factors and diagnose the condition of the region´s competitiveness, to measure the level of competitiveness, to assess the competitive advantage, to determine the competitive position of the region. This will allow to make more informed decisions on the management of regional competitiveness.