Chair's Statements
Statements from ASEM Summits.
Chair's Statement of the Seventh Asia-Europe Meeting
Beijing, 24-25 October 2008
1. The Seventh Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM 7) was held in Beijing on 24 and 25 October 2008. The Summit was attended by the Heads of State and Government of sixteen Asian and twenty-seven European nations, the President of the European Commission and the Secretary-General of ASEAN Secretariat. The President of the People's Republic of China, H.E. Hu Jintao addressed the opening ceremony. The Premier of the People's Republic of China, H.E. Wen Jiabao chaired the meeting.
2. The Meeting was the first gathering of the leaders of 45 members of ASEM since its second round of enlargement. They represent around 50% of world GDP, approximately 58% of the world's population and 60% of world trade. A warm welcome was extended to the leaders of Bulgaria, India, Mongolia, Pakistan, Romania, and the ASEAN Secretariat who attended ASEM Summit for the first time.
3. Leaders of ASEM members held in-depth discussions on important international and regional issues of common concern and interest under the overarching theme of Vision and Action: Towards a Win-Win Solution.
4. Leaders reaffirmed the strategic importance of ASEM, and recognized that Asia and Europe are closely related geographically, historically and culturally, share many common ideals, are complementary in economic and social development and rich in cultural diversity. They recognized the high expectations placed on ASEM by their peoples, and emphasized the need to further strengthen Asia-Europe dialogue and cooperation on the basis of equal partnership, mutual respect, mutual benefit, seeking common grounds while shelving differences and learning from each other, which will bring about development opportunities and tangible benefits to both regions and be conducive to peace, stability and development.
5. Leaders expressed their deep condolences and sympathy over the recent severe human and property losses incurred in natural disasters in Asia in the past year. They affirmed their commitment to continued assistance to the affected countries. They stress the importance of efficient and prompt delivery of humanitarian aid and expertise in case of natural disasters. Leaders highlighted the need for joint global efforts to address global challenges including natural disasters in a timely manner and undertook to conduct practical disaster preparedness and management and reconstruction cooperation in the areas of infrastructure, agriculture, health, water, environment, education, science and technology, with a view to promoting regional and national capacity building in disaster preparedness and management.
6. Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace and security, sustainable development and human rights in accordance with the UN Charter and principles of International Law. Leaders, in marking the 60th Anniversary of Universal Declaration of Human Rights, reaffirmed their commitment to the principles contained therein.
Promoting Political Dialogue
7. Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening multilateralism and a multilateral international system with the United Nations at its core based on international law. They underlined that international institutions provide both a means of cooperation and a mechanism through which to deliver change, and should adequately address the global challenges, ensuring global security and working for global prosperity. With regards to UN and other international institutions reforms, leaders recognized the need to work in partnership to achieve more democratic, more accountable, more efficient, and more effective international institutions in the face of new challenges. They also reiterated their support to peaceful resolution of international disputes through political and diplomatic efforts.
8. While condemning terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, leaders reaffirmed their commitment to take practical steps to prevent and combat terrorism with reference to the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, underlining the need to adhere to the major UN conventions and protocols dealing with terrorism and to respect international laws, including the Charter of the United Nations, Human Rights law, refugee law and international humanitarian law, in the global fight against terrorism. Calling for expeditious finalization of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the UN, they expressed their appreciation with the outcome of the formal review of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy held in New York on 4/5 in September 2008 and the existing dialogue and cooperation on counter-terrorism within ASEM and welcomed the outcomes of the ASEM Conference on Counter-Terrorism in Tokyo, Japan (2007) and Madrid, Spain (2008). Leaders also welcomed the offer of the Philippines to host the 7th ASEM Counter-Terrorism Conference in 2009.
9. Leaders had in-depth exchanges over international and regional situation. The Leaders discussed and evaluated the current development of situations in Asia and Europe, and agreed that the prevailing hope of the Asian and European peoples is promoting peace, development and cooperation. The peoples of Asia and Europe are dedicated to dialogue and cooperation so as to enhance strategic mutual trust, create enabling regional security environment and commonly address conventional and nonconventional security threats. They supported the progress of the integration process of East Asia, ASEAN and South Asia, and welcomed the signing of the ASEAN Charter including the proposed creation of an ASEAN Human Rights Body and the delivery of the ASEAN Economic Community Blueprint. They discussed the development of European Union’s integration process and acknowledged that since its inception, this process had promoted peace, stability and development in Europe.
10. Leaders had exchanged views on recent developments on the Korean Peninsula. They positively confirmed and supported the Six-Party Talks and welcomed the progress made in the second-phase actions for the full and balanced implementation of the Joint Statement of the Six-Party Talks unanimously adopted on 19 September 2005. They agreed that these developments contribute to the peace and stability of Northeast Asia. They called on the relevant parties to continue to take positive steps to move forward the Six-Party Talks with the aim of early and verifiable denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula in a peaceful manner. They also emphasized the importance of addressing the humanitarian concerns.
11. Leaders stressed their commitments to promote peace, stability and development in Afghanistan and emphasized their support to Afghanistan’s national reconciliation, unity and territorial integrity. They welcomed the progress of the reconstruction achieved so far and the International Conference in Support of Afghanistan held in Paris last June and the final declaration issued. They expressed the support to the full implementation of the Afghanistan Compact and the Afghanistan National Development Strategy. Leaders vowed to contribute to the fulfillment of the aims of the agreement to strengthen institutions, good governance and anti-corruption efforts to promote the rule of law and the respect of human rights. They emphasized that the international community should assist Afghanistan in these regards, and help combat narcotics cultivation of and trafficking in drugs in Afghanistan and its neighbors. They welcomed the key role played by the United Nations in the reconstruction process, and stressed the support to deepening the regional cooperation and dialogue on the issue of Afghanistan. They also expressed their appreciation for the international efforts in combating terrorism in Afghanistan.
12. Leaders exchanged views on developments in Myanmar. They expressed their unanimous support for the good offices role of the UN Secretary General. The Leaders acknowledged the progress achieved in assisting the post-Nargis relief work by the Tripartite Core Group (TCG) comprising Myanmar, the UN and ASEAN, and the assistance provided by the international community to those in need. They expressed the support to the United Nations to continue to play a constructive role and to the ASEAN led mechanism to continue its good performance in coordinating the ongoing relief and recovery efforts in Myanmar. The Leaders took note of the briefing by Myanmar on the recent developments and prospects. They noted the recent visit to Myanmar last August by the UN Secretary-General Special Advisor Ibrahim Gambari and supported the UN to continue its good offices efforts, and they encouraged the Myanmar Government to conduct closer cooperation with the UN. They also encouraged the Myanmar government to engage all stakeholders in an inclusive political process in order to achieve national reconciliation and economic and social development. In this regard, they called for the lifting of restrictions placed on political parties and early further release of those under detention.
13. Leaders confirmed their commitment to seek a negotiated solution to the Iranian nuclear issue, addressing their serious concerns about Iran's nuclear programme. They called on Iran to comply fully with UN Security Council resolutions and to meet fully and without delay the requirements of the IAEA Board of Governors. They welcomed the offer of a road-map of the resumption of negotiations proposed by China, France, Germany, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom and the United States in June 2008 and called on relevant parties to seize this opportunity for the resumption of negotiations.
Advancing Economic Cooperation
14. Leaders discussed the current international economic and financial situations and recognized that the current global financial crisis has severe impact on the global financial system and world economy. The international community should jointly overcome the financial crisis through enhanced cooperation. The leaders agreed to issue the Statement on the International Financial Situation.
15. Leaders reiterated their commitment to strengthening economic and development cooperation and coordination, raising capabilities to address various risks and challenges and promote fair and balanced progress of economic globalization which benefits all. Concerned about the development of the least developed countries, leaders stressed the importance of debt relief and debt sustainability.
16. Leaders reaffirmed the importance of an open, fair, rule-based and stable multilateral trading system under the World Trade Organizations (WTO) to achieve economic growth and development, and to reduce global disparities and trade imbalances, recognizing that such a system is the most effective way in promoting trade liberalization and expanding and diversifying trade relations and increasing economic opportunities among ASEM partners.
17. Leaders were concerned over the current situation of the Doha Round negotiations of the WTO and expressed the conviction that an early and successful conclusion of the Doha Development Agenda would bring benefits to all members, especially developing and the least developed countries. They remain deeply committed to pushing for successful conclusion of a comprehensive, ambitious and balanced Doha outcome, recognizing the central importance of its development dimension. Leaders reaffirmed their full support for ASEM members’ universal membership to the WTO and thus for early accession of Lao PDR into the WTO.
18. Leaders recognized that each country has the primary responsibility for its own development and stressed national development need to be supported by an enabling international economic environment. They called upon all countries to actively implement the internationally agreed development goals including the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and looked forward to a substantive outcome of the Follow-up International Conference on Financing for Development to be held in Doha at the end of November 2008 and noted the importance of Accra Agenda for Action of the 3rd High Level Forum on Aid Effectiveness held in Accra in September 2008. Leaders stressed their commitment to mobilize additional development finance through increased official development assistance (ODA), debt relief, where appropriate, and innovative financing mechanisms towards the attainment of the MDGs. Leaders welcomed the recent success of the replenishment of the Asian Development Fund, which contribute to regional development. They also welcomed the holding of a Conference on Development Cooperation in the Philippines in 2009.
19. Leaders expressed their concern over fluctuation of commodity prices worldwide especially of oil and food, since they pose a serious challenge to stable growth and cause great difficulties to the life of people in many countries, especially the most vulnerable. They called for strengthened efforts including food aid and social protection activities, and trade facilitation to stabilize the surging food prices quickly, mitigate their impact and help the affected developing countries, especially the least developed countries get through this challenging time. They expressed their commitment to taking joint and comprehensive measures to address the crisis in the medium to the long run, including strengthening policy coordination and cooperation, increasing sustainable input in agricultural production, raising agricultural productivity, in a bid to secure food supply. To coordinate and implement these measures effectively, leaders called for the formation of a global partnership involving all actors, including governments, the private sector, civil society and other international institutions. In this connection, they highly appreciated Vietnam's initiative on the first ASEM Forum on Food Security in 2009. They affirmed their support to the United Nations in playing a leading and coordinating role in this regard, and expressed the support to the outcomes of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) High-Level Conference on World Food Security in Rome. Leaders also look forward to the upcoming Follow-up High Level Conference that will be held in Madrid later this year. In addition, they also confirmed the importance of advancing research and development of agricultural technology, particularly on enhancement of agricultural productivity.
20. Leaders recalled the Hanoi Declaration on a Closer ASEM Economic Partnership (CEP) and reiterated that ASEM partners should strengthen cooperation and join hands to deepen economic partnership, promote open trade and boost two-way investment, further develop a conducive business environment and offer sustainable trade opportunities to all ASEM partners, especially the developing and the least developed countries. In this regard, they urged the Economic Ministers to convene the meeting at the earliest possible time to review past performance and implementation of the CEP and identify concrete areas and activities for practical and effective cooperation in the coming years. They emphasized the importance of implementing activities within the Trade Facilitation Action Plan (TFAP) and the Investment Promotion Action Plan (IPAP) and better engaging the business community in the ASEM process, especially via the Asia- Europe Business Forum. Furthermore, they stressed the need to revitalize links among ASEM investment focal points to bring the economic pillar forward in a more substantive and comprehensive manner. Leaders also recognized the value of bilateral and regional trading arrangements, consistent with the WTO’s rules and commitments, and noted progress in the negotiations between ASEM partners.
21. Leaders recognized that, although structural reforms and sound macroeconomic policies have increased the resilience of both Europe and Asia against the global financial turmoil, the global economic slowdown and persistently high commodity prices, both regions are increasingly being affected by the worsening global environment. They agreed that long term stability of the global and regional financial markets is key to sustainable economic growth of both regions. They welcomed the consensus on the necessity of strong and coherent policy responses to recent economic difficulties and mutual cooperation among ASEM partners in the areas of economic integration, infrastructure finance and microfinance in the form of sharing information and knowledge, capacity building, reached at the 8th ASEM Finance Ministers' Meeting held in Jeju, Korea in June 2008.
22. Leaders agreed on the need to enhance cooperation in the fields of innovation, science, and technology among ASEM partners so as to narrow the digital divide and ensure sustainable development. Leaders called for reinforced efforts to protect intellectual property rights and ensure their enforcement. They noted that protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights should contribute to the promotion of technological innovation in and to the transfer and dissemination of technology to developing countries, which is vital for sustainable development. Leaders also supported enhanced cooperation between the government, business, and the international institution on the advancement of ICT to facilitate economic integration and international cooperation in the reduction of tariff barriers, enabling open access, and the promotion of International Standard.
23. Leaders reiterated the importance of closer cooperation among small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) to economic development and job creation, and welcomed the consensus reached and action plans adopted at the inaugural ASEM SMEs Ministerial Meeting held in Beijing in October 2007. Leaders also welcomed the recommendations on promoting SMEs development made by the business community at the ASEM SME Trade and Investment Fair in Qingdao in October 2007.
24. Leaders welcomed the recommendations from the 11th Asia-Europe Business Forum on promoting trade and investment between Asia and Europe.
25. Leaders welcomed the initiative of Lithuania to host the first ASEM Transport Ministerial Meeting on 19-20 October 2009 as the platform for launching ASEM dialogue on transport issues between partners and the initiative of Romania to host a first ASEM Ministerial Meeting on Migration in 2009 which will deepen the dialogue on this important issue.
Driving Sustainable Development
26. Leaders held extensive and in-depth discussions on issues of realizing the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) as well as the sustainable development targets agreed in Johannesburg, strengthening energy security cooperation, jointly addressing the challenge of climate change, and environmental protection, including water resources, forests and air, and improving social cohesion under the framework of sustainable development.
27. Leaders stressed the importance of mid-term review of the MDGs, and underscored the need for ASEM members to further deepen international development cooperation to meet the IADGs, particularly the MDGs, in a timely manner.
28. Leaders expressed their support for strengthened international cooperation on climate change that could help assess impacts and vulnerabilities, build adaptive capacities, and support adaptation actions. Recalling the ASEM 6 Declaration on Climate Change, leaders noted with satisfaction the outcomes of the ASEM 3rd Environment Ministers’ Meeting held in Copenhagen in April 2007 as well as the ASEM Seminar on the Adaptation to the Climate Change held in Japan in October 2008. In this context, leaders welcomed the substantial progress made at the Climate Change Conference in Bali, Indonesia in December 2007. They confirmed their commitment to securing an ambitious, effective and comprehensive agreed outcome now, up to and beyond 2012 by the end of 2009 on the basis of the Bali Road Map and underlined the need to act with resolve and urgency during the Climate Change Conference in Poznan and the Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen.
29. Leaders also emphasized the need for the sustainable management of forest and ocean as well as other territorial, coastal and marine ecosystems. In this respect, leaders also welcomed the offer by Brunei Darussalam to host a workshop on understanding the impact of climate change on the biodiversity of tropical rainforests in 2009. ASEM leaders agreed to encourage and support regional and sub-regional organizations to develop cooperative projects entailing specialized studies on bio-diversity, melting of glaciers and protection of life-sustaining water resources as well as raising mass awareness through dissemination of expertise and technology.
30. Leaders stressed the need to focus on development needs and environmental sustainability in the energy sector. They emphasized the need for Asia-Europe cooperation to ensure the availability of environmentally sound energy at a reasonable price to support economic growth and that the latest technology should be intended to increase energy efficiency. Leaders recognised the need to develop regional and sub-regional projects amongst ASEM partners to promote low-carbon economy. Leaders acknowledged the key message on sustainable energy from the 6th Asia-Europe Environment Forum.
31. Leaders recognized that the impact of globalization is increasingly being felt by the people of ASEM members, and share a common interest in strengthening the social dimension of globalization and improving social cohesion. They welcomed the outcome of the 2nd ASEM labour and employment ministers’ declaration issued at the ministers’ meeting in Bali earlier this month and highlighted the importance of decent work and good governance.
32. To this end, leaders unanimously agreed to issue the Beijing Declaration on Sustainable Development.
Furthering Social and Cultural Exchanges
33. Leaders reaffirmed the respect for cultural diversity and the need to protect our cultural heritage and advocated mutual understanding, tolerance, respect and peaceful coexistence among different social systems, development paths and cultures. Leaders welcomed the valuable contributions made since the last meeting at the global level to bridge the gap between cultures and civilisations. They emphasized the importance of combining the multilateral framework with the national efforts to promote the understanding among faiths, cultures and peoples. They welcomed the results of the 1st Alliance of Civilisations (AoC) Forum held in Madrid in January 2008 and the consolidation of this UN Initiative and the increasing number of ASEM countries that have joined its Group of Friends. The UN AoC implementation of concrete projects in the field of media and youth employment, and the elaboration of National Action Plans, show the way ahead to promote global understanding involving civil societies.
34. Leaders reaffirmed the positive role of dialogue among cultures and civilizations in reducing poverty, realizing social peace, preventing regional conflicts, protecting the environment and promoting sustained economic growth, social development and common prosperity. They resolved to take concerted action to further promote interfaith understanding and exchanges, taking global leadership in working towards building a world where different cultures and civilizations co-exist in harmony, equality and mutual respect.
35. Leaders noted with satisfaction the outcome of the ASEM Culture Ministers' Meetings (CMM) held in China, France and Malaysia. They welcomed the progress achieved to enhance cultural exchanges and cooperation between Asia and Europe inspired by the ASEM Declaration on Dialogue among Cultures and Civilizations adopted in 5th ASEM Summit in Hanoi, and welcomed the decision to convene the meeting on a regular basis as well as the recommendation that a Cultural and Art Festival proposed by China be held in connection with ASEM Summits or ASEM CMM. They expressed the desire for more results-orientated discussions during the next Culture Ministers’ meeting in Poland in 2010. They reaffirmed their determination to respect, protect and promote cultural diversity and the equal dignity of all cultures, and therefore encouraged the expeditious ratification and implementation of the UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions by all ASEM countries. Leaders also noted that tourism could contribute to mutual understanding and respect for cultural diversity. In this connection, they welcomed the outcome of the ASEM Tourism Forum held in Vietnam this year.
36. Leaders emphasized the importance of keeping the good momentum of the ASEM Interfaith Dialogue and welcomed the outcomes of the ASEM Interfaith Dialogues (Nanjing 2007 and Amsterdam 2008) and urged governments to actively facilitate interfaith and intercultural dialogues, particularly at the regional and interregional levels, which is part of a much broader dialogue between Asia and Europe. In this regard, they underlined the need to intensify discussions among themselves and with 9 other regional organizations and fora on further institutionalizing interfaith dialogue at regional and global levels.
37. Leaders welcomed the constructive role of parliaments, NGOs and the civil society in promoting dialogue among cultures and civilizations and mutual understanding between people of Asia and Europe.
38. Leaders recognized that human resources development constitutes a key factor in poverty reduction and economic and social development. They renewed their commitment to further strengthen their cooperation in human resources development, capacity building and sustained dialogue and exchanges in primary and higher education, vocational training and lifelong learning. Leaders endorsed the outcome of the First ASEM Education Ministerial Meeting held in Germany and looked forward to a substantive outcome of the Second ASEM Education Ministerial Meeting to be held in Vietnam in 2009. Leaders recognized the success of the Trans-Eurasia Information Network (TEIN) in fostering research collaboration between all ASEM partners, welcomed the launch of TEIN3 and renewed their commitment to its long-term sustainability.
39. Leaders expressed their appreciation of the dialogue carried out by ASEM partners through the informal ASEM Seminars on Human Rights, held annually since 1998. They underlined their commitment to cooperate in the promotion and protection of human rights on the basis of equality and mutual respect.
40. Leaders affirmed their commitment to promote global health security including developing health-care systems and local infrastructure to improve public health in the developing world and reiterated their determination to combat health threats such as HIV/AIDs and avian influenza. Leaders welcomed the ASEM Workshop on Avian Influenza Control hosted by China and the ASEM Initiative for the Rapid Containment of Pandemic Influenza financed by Japan and looked forward to the success of the ASEM workshop on sharing experiences of preparedness to respond to the global climate change and emerging diseases to be held in Vietnam in 2009.
41. Leaders commended the Asia-Europe Foundation for its positive contribution to promoting cultural, intellectual and people-to-people exchanges between Asia and Europe. Leaders recognized the value of ASEF’s flagship programmes in furthering the priorities, and enhancing the visibility of ASEM. They also commended ASEF for spearheading the development of Culture 360, an Asia-Europe cultural web-portal to enhance art and cultural exchange among ASEM member countries.
The Future of ASEM
42. Leaders reaffirmed the role of ASEM as a multi-faceted dialogue facilitator and the key cooperation areas identified in the Helsinki Declaration on the Future of ASEM for its second decade. They adopted various cooperation initiatives put forward by partners (attached as Annex I) and the ASEM Work Program for 2008-2010 (attached as Annex II).
43. With the increasing number of initiatives and meetings at various levels in ASEM, Leaders reaffirmed the importance of developing effective ways of communication within ASEM members to support ASEM cooperation in the near future.
44. Leaders applauded progress made in the institutional building of ASEM, including the Issue-based Leadership initiative (attached as Annex III) and closer coordination among embassies/permanent representations of ASEM partners as agreed at ASEM 6.
45. Leaders tasked Senior Officials to further explore ways to achieve greater visibility of ASEM and welcomed European Commission’s efforts in this regard and Vietnam’s initiative on the first SOM Meeting on “Coordinating Cultural Activities for the Enhancement of ASEM Visibility.
46. Leaders instructed the Ministers of Foreign Affairs to discuss the issue of enlargement in their future meetings.
47. Leaders accepted with gratitude Belgium's offer to host ASEM 8 and looked forward to meeting again in 2010.
Beijing, China
October 2008
Chairman’s Statement of the Sixth Asia-Europe Meeting, Helsinki, 10-11 September 2006
The sixth Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM6) was held in Helsinki on 10-11 September 2006. The Summit was attended by the Heads of State and Government of thirteen Asian and twenty-five European nations and the President of the European Commission. The Prime Minister of Finland, acting also as the President of the European Council, chaired this historic meeting.
Leaders, recalling their previous meetings in Bangkok (1996), London (1998), Seoul (2000), Copenhagen (2002), and Hanoi (2004), held comprehensive, in-depth and fruitful discussions on various topical issues of common interest under the overarching theme 10 Years of ASEM: Global Challenges -Joint Responses.
Leaders noted with appreciation the positive outcomes of Foreign and Financial Ministers' Meetings as well as Culture and Labour Ministers' Meetings since ASEM5, and endorsed their recommendations.
10 Years of ASEM: Global Challenges-Joint Responses
1. Leaders acknowledged the significant growth in the importance of Asia and Europe as global political and economic actors during the past decade. They welcomed the intensification of Asia-Europe relations and enhanced interaction in all major areas of cooperation, reflecting the common efforts of both regions to develop joint responses to the profound changes in the international environment, including increased global interdependence.
2. Looking back at the first ten years of ASEM, Leaders welcomed ASEM's overall achievements in promoting peace and stability, emphasising that during its first decade ASEM has gained strength as a multifaceted dialogue facilitator and established its role as a platform for policy development between Asia and Europe. They noted with satisfaction the expansion of political interaction, progress in the accomplishment of a stronger economic partnership, closer dialogue between peoples of various cultures, and a better awareness of cross-dimensional issues affecting both regions. Moreover, Leaders appreciated the wealth and diversity of activities carried out during ASEM's first decade as evidenced by the comprehensive list of initiatives (as annexed) based on the Overview Report on ASEM Initiatives.
Regional Developments
3. Leaders discussed the continuing integration process of the European Union, which has promoted peace, stability, and development in Europe since its inception. They exchanged views and reaffirmed their support for the ongoing processes of community-building in East Asia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), noting also the Vientiane Action Programme. They further welcomed the first East Asia Summit (EAS) held in Kuala Lumpur in December 2005 and its role as an integral part of the overall evolving regional architecture, with ASEAN as the driving force. Furthermore, Leaders took note of the EU's intention to accede to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC) and looked forward to the EU's participation in the rapidly evolving regional cooperation, recognising that building an East Asian community would contribute to peace, security, prosperity and progress in the region and beyond. Leaders discussed and took stock of regional developments and experiences related to regional security dialogue and cooperation, in particular as regards the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), the European Security and Defense Policy (ESDP) and the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) as a model for regional security cooperation and confidence-building. Leaders also welcomed the cooperation between the EU and countries in Southeast Asia contributing to the Aceh Monitoring Mission, as a positive reflection of close cooperation between Europe and Asia in promoting peace and security.
4. Leaders exchanged views on developments on the Korean Peninsula. They emphasized that the denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula is essential in maintaining peace and stability in Northeast Asia, and voiced support for the peaceful resolution of the DPRK nuclear issue through dialogue. They reaffirmed their support for the Joint Statement of the Six Party Talks unanimously adopted on 19 September 2005 in Beijing. They also stressed that any action that might further aggravate the situation should be refrained from, and urged the DPRK to return immediately to the Six-Party Talks without precondition and to work towards the expeditious implementation of the Joint Statement. Leaders expressed serious concern over the recent test-firing of missiles by the DPRK that jeopardised peace, stability and security in the region and beyond, reaffirming their support for UN Security Council resolution 1695. They also emphasised the importance of addressing the humanitarian concerns.
Leaders shared the view that, reflecting the European experiences of successfully transforming their mistrust and confrontation into dialogue and cooperation, promoting multilateral security cooperation in Northeast Asia would enhance mutual understanding and confidence among the countries in the region and thereby lay the foundation for greater peace and common prosperity in Northeast Asia.
5. Leaders took note of the briefing on the recent political developments in Myanmar given by the Head of the Myanmar delegation. Leaders welcomed ASEAN's efforts and their statement on Myanmar in the Joint Communiqué of the 39th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting (Kuala Lumpur, July 2006). They also welcomed UN Under Secretary General Ibrahim Gambari's visit to Myanmar in May 2006 and reaffirmed their continued support for the efforts of the UN Secretary General to bring about peaceful political change. They encouraged the Government of Myanmar to engage constructively with ASEAN, the UN, and the international community. Leaders expressed deep concern on the lack of tangible progress and lack of inclusiveness in the process towards national reconciliation and called for a transition via an inclusive process to a democratic government, in line with the assurances given by Myanmar at the ASEM5 Summit (Hanoi, 2004). They also called for the early lifting of restrictions placed on political parties, the early release of those placed under detention, and for effective dialogue between all parties concerned.
6. Leaders exchanged views on the recent developments in Timor-Leste and welcomed the adoption of UNSCR 1704, which led to the establishment of the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) for restoring stability, law and order in Timor-Leste.
They also welcomed the contribution of countries, including ASEM partners, which had responded to the request of the Timor-Leste Government in May 2006 to assist in stabilizing the situation there. Leaders called upon the international community to extend assistance to Timor Leste while respecting the country's integrity and ownership of its national development process.
7. Recalling the need to assist the Afghan Government in establishing its control throughout the country, Leaders reaffirmed their long-term commitment to assist the Afghan Government in the stabilisation and rebuilding of Afghanistan within the framework of the Afghanistan Compact. They noted that although much has been achieved during recent years, formidable challenges still lie ahead in the arena of security, rule of law, governance and human rights as well as economic and social development. Leaders also stressed the importance of the moves to enhance governance, the importance of increased and better coordinated counter-narcotics efforts in and around Afghanistan and the security sector reform including disbandment of illegal armed groups. Leaders expressed their support for the reinforcement of regional cooperation and dialogue with regard to Afghanistan, in particular in the framework of SAARC. They also welcomed the 2nd conference on economic regional cooperation, which will take place in New Delhi (18-19 November).
8. Leaders welcomed the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 which led to the cessation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, mindful of the high incidence of civilian casualties and heavy losses on both sides. They confirmed that UNSCR 1701 sets the principles and elements for a political solution of the crisis supported by the reinforced UNIFIL forces. They also acknowledged the leadership role played by the EU as well as the offers to contribute troops to UNIFIL by some ASEM partners. They urged all concerned parties to lift all obstacles to the free access to the Lebanese territory of persons and goods, notably in order to allow the reconstruction of Lebanon. They recalled the necessity for all states to comply with the embargo on arms and related material to any entity or individual other than those authorized by the government of Lebanon or by UNIFIL, in accordance with the terms of UNSCR 1701. They also stressed the importance of strengthening the Lebanese government and of supporting all its efforts to extend its authority over its territory. Leaders urged all parties in the region to continue to play a constructive role in helping to swiftly and fully implement this resolution. They called on the international community to extend humanitarian assistance to the victims of the recent war.
9. Leaders reaffirmed their support for efforts to reach a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East. They also reaffirmed their support for a negotiated settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on existing agreements, which include the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions and the principles laid down in the Road Map.
10. Leaders emphasised their commitment to seek a diplomatic and peaceful solution which addresses international concerns about Iran's nuclear programme. They called on Iran to implement UN Security Council Resolution 1696 (2006) and all Resolutions of the IAEA Board of Governors, and noted with concern the IAEA's 31 August report detailing Iran's failure to suspend enrichment activity and Iran's continuing failure to cooperate with the IAEA. Leaders welcomed the proposals put forward by China, France, Germany, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, for a comprehensive arrangement with Iran, based on mutual respect and the establishment of international confidence in the exclusively peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear programme. They called on Iran to respond positively to these proposals.
11. Leaders welcomed the formation of a constitutionally elected government in Iraq and the priority given in its programme to promoting national reconciliation and the rule of law. They noted the International Compact put forward by the Iraqi government. They reaffirmed their support for the Iraqi government in its efforts to ensure unity, security, stability and prosperity of the country, and encouraged further international engagement with Iraq.
Strengthening Multilateralism and Addressing Security Threats
12. Leaders underlined that modern challenges and threats recognise no national boundaries, are interlinked and require common solutions. They reconfirmed their strong support for a fair, just, and rules-based multilateral international system with the United Nations playing a central role, and reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace and security, sustainable development and human rights in accordance with the UN Charter and international law. Leaders stressed the importance of the continued implementation of the reforms and commitments agreed at the 2005 UN World Summit, including the necessity of reforming the UN's principal organs. They welcomed the establishment of the Peace-building Commission and the Human Rights Council as well as the continued progress on the UN management reform and the High Level Panel set up to examine more effective delivery of UN development, humanitarian, and environmental operations. Moreover, Leaders reaffirmed their continued commitment to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and poverty reduction. They also emphasised the need for more efficient environmental activities in the UN system and for exploring the possibility of a more coherent institutional framework, building on existing institutions. Leaders referred to the need to ensure that there is no impunity for the most serious international crimes and discussed in this context the role of the International Criminal Court (ICC). Within the ASEM context the Leaders also noted the value of initiatives such as the Informal Human Rights Seminars.
13. Leaders emphasised the importance of multilateral efforts for strengthening disarmament and the non-proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) and their means of delivery. They stressed the importance of universalization, implementation and compliance with the international disarmament and non-proliferation treaties, including the need to implement UNSC Resolution 1540/2004. They reiterated the importance of cooperation to ensure a successful outcome of the 2006 Review Conference of the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BTWC) as well as the importance of the early entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). Furthermore, they welcomed the ongoing efforts to establish standards for the global transfer of conventional arms and reconfirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation to prevent trafficking of illicit small arms and light weapons.
14. On the 5th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks, Leaders observed a moment of silence in commemoration of all victims of terrorism. They reaffirmed their commitment to the fight against terrorism, which still poses a threat to the international community, and underlined the need for a comprehensive approach. Leaders stressed that the fight against terrorism must be carried out in accordance with international law, in particular the UN Charter, respect of human rights, refugee law and international humanitarian law. They agreed that it is equally important to identify and address the conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism, as a means of preventing radicalisation and recruitment into violent extremism and rejected any attempts to associate terrorism with any religion, race, nationality, or ethnic group. Leaders welcomed the recent adoption of the General Assembly Resolution on the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy and called on states to become parties to and fully implement all UN Conventions and Protocols related to terrorist acts as well as relevant UN Resolutions, and called for the finalisation of the negotiations on the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism. Moreover, they asserted their determination to prevent the use of nuclear weapons and other WMD to commit terrorist acts, and underlined the need to ensure the early entry into force of the International Convention on the Suppression of Nuclear Terrorism and the Amendment to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material. They acknowledged the importance of preventing the financing of terrorism and related efforts against money-laundering in accordance with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations. Leaders noted with appreciation the ongoing practical ASEM cooperation on counterterrorism, including within the framework of the UNCTC, and endorsed the recommendations made at the ASEM Conferences on Counter-Terrorism.
15. Taking into consideration the shared interest in ensuring an effective response to serious forms of organised crime, such as trafficking in persons, money-laundering, terrorism financing and corruption, drugs-trafficking and illicit arms-trade, Leaders recognised the important role of the multilateral system and particularly the implementation of the UN Convention Against Transnational Organised Crime and its Protocols, as well as the UN Conventions on corruption and illicit drugs. In this context they welcomed the positive outcomes of the first ASEM Prosecutors-General Meeting. Furthermore, recognising the importance of mitigating threats to the Sea Lanes of Communication between Asia and Europe, Leaders discussed maritime security, and safe and secure conditions of air and maritime transportation, including safety of international energy transporting routes.
16. Leaders emphasised the need to promote global health security and reiterated their determination to combat global health threats, such as HIV/AIDS, avian influenza and a possible human influenza pandemic, tuberculosis and malaria. They took note of the Political Declaration of the UN High Level meeting on AIDS in 2006 and reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing all necessary efforts towards achieving the goal of universal access to comprehensive prevention programmes, treatment, care and support by 2010. Leaders also affirmed their commitment to facilitating access to antiretroviral treatment (ARV) in the developing world. Moreover, Leaders recognised the efforts made in various international fora to fight highly pathogenic avian influenza, stressing the importance of research cooperation and of establishing monitoring systems and prompt initial responses, including at grassroots level. In this context they also stressed the importance of honouring commitments made at relevant international pledging conferences and the implementation of the recently revised International Health Regulations. Leaders welcomed the concrete common actions on global health issues within the ASEM framework and invited partners to continue their cooperation.
17. Leaders recalled the unprecedented loss of life and destruction caused by the 2004 tsunami and other devastating natural events and expressed their solidarity with the people and communities affected. They commended the efforts made to respond to these disasters and expressed appreciation for the actions taken to build resilience through people-centred regional early-warning systems and other emergency response mechanisms. Leaders underlined the need to strengthen global disaster reduction activities and capabilities, including mitigating the risk and the impact of disasters and facilitating effective civil-military response to disasters, building upon relevant international commitments and frameworks and reaffirming the vital coordinating role of the UN system. In this respect Leaders took further note of the important work on disasters management and emergency response within the ASEAN. Leaders also welcomed the establishment of the UN Central Emergency Response Fund.
Globalisation and Competitiveness
18. Leaders discussed globalisation, the acceleration of exchanges, and the opportunities for economic growth that globalisation is bringing about both in Asia and Europe. They exchanged views on how to manage the rapid transformation and structural change of their countries' economies while recognising the need to tackle the challenges of globalisation and to extend its benefits to all. Leaders reconfirmed that the process of market opening provides irreplaceable benefits overall and boosts productivity. They underlined that structural reform and effective policies at all levels, are needed to address the challenges posed by adjustment to globalisation and to seize the opportunities that it provides, stressing at the same time that protectionism has to be resisted in defining these policies.
19. Leaders discussed the state-of-play of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) negotiations. They expressed deep regret about the suspension of the negotiations on the Doha Development Agenda (DDA) and underlined the importance of preserving the integrity and credibility of the multilateral trading system and of realising the development promise of the DDA. They called on all parties to the negotiations to show the necessary political will and flexibility to allow the negotiations to resume as soon as circumstances allow. They emphasised the importance of achieving an ambitious and balanced outcome resulting in new commercial opportunities and improvement of existing global trade rules, while taking into account the needs and interests of developing and least-developed countries. Leaders underlined the importance of flanking such an agreement with appropriate measures aimed at further integrating developing and least developed countries in global trade. They encouraged all WTO members to bridge their differences and redouble their efforts to achieve a successful conclusion of the DDA. Bearing in mind the need for greater flexibility to be accorded to developing and least developed countries, Leaders expressed their strong support for Vietnam's entry into the WTO by November 2006 and for the early accession of the Lao PDR to the organisation.
20. Leaders took note of the increase in Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs) and underscored that these agreements should support and further the objectives of the multilateral trading system. Leaders agreed on the importance of ensuring that all RTAs are ambitious and comprehensive in scope, fully complying with WTO rules, taking into account the different levels of development of the parties to an RTA, and ensuring the long-term inclusion of developing countries in the world economy. They stressed that such considerations have become even more critical in the light of the recent suspension of the WTO negotiations. In order to maintain a level playing field for all ASEM partners and their respective businesses, they emphasised the need for improvements in market access to be undertaken on a multilateral basis, in parallel with steps to enhance regional or bilateral trade. Similarly, Leaders recognised the need to improve and clarify rules for RTAs in the WTO, once the DDA negotiations are resumed, and in this light welcomed the progress already secured through the proposed new Transparency Mechanism for RTAs.
21. Leaders asserted their commitment to deepening the economic cooperation between the two regions through constructive policy dialogue and action-oriented programmes. In this respect Leaders called on the Economic Ministers to convene at an early date to review past performance and implementation of the Hanoi Declaration on Closer Economic Partnership (CEP). They noted the need to review and consider further action within the Trade Facilitation Action Plan (TFAP) and the Investment Promotion Action Plan (IPAP) further focussing in particular on areas of direct business interest. In this context Leaders took note of the ASEM Customs Directors-General/Commissioners Meetings and the progress made in the customs fora. They stressed their commitment to the promotion and the implementation of effective protection worldwide and to combating IPR piracy and counterfeiting, underscoring the importance of international cooperation on and capacity-building in supply chain security. They also noted the dialogue on IP related matters, including in the area of geographical indications. Moreover, Leaders noted with satisfaction the recommendations of the Asia-Europe Business Forum (AEBF) and emphasised the importance of further engaging the business sector as an active stakeholder in the ASEM process, also welcoming the ASEM Trade and Investment Expo. Leaders further emphasised the important role of SMEs in promoting economic development and employment and welcomed the offer by China to host the first Ministerial Meeting on SMEs in 2007.
22. Leaders reaffirmed the need to strengthen ASEM financial cooperation and welcomed the conclusions of the Finance Ministers' meeting in Vienna in 2006, regarding appropriate policy responses for securing balanced and sustained economic expansion. To this end, they welcomed the progress made in the implementation of the Tianjin Initiative on Closer ASEM Economic and Financial Cooperation, in particular the ASEM Contingency Dialogue Mechanism for Emergent Economic and Financial events. Leaders appreciated the positive results of the ASEM Trust Fund II and looked forward to advancing cooperation in new areas. In this regard they noted the work of the Finance Ministers in exploring ways to support efforts in policy dialogue and capacity building, including the possibility of establishing a new instrument. They also acknowledged proposals to develop national and regional bond markets in Asia. Leaders noted their willingness to strengthen global governance structures by supporting the proposal for the IMF governance reform. They highlighted the importance of the IMF annual meeting for reaching an agreement on and expeditiously implementing the quota revision, which would give a higher share of influence and responsibility to emerging and developing countries, according to objective criteria, and which could be followed by parallel reforms in other organisations. Leaders welcomed with satisfaction the offer by the Republic of Korea to host the next Finance Ministers' Meeting in 2008.
23. Recalling that structural adjustment is inherent to a changing global economy and that industries and people must be prepared to tackle it, Leaders underlined the need for active labour market policies. In this context, Leaders highlighted the importance of the first ASEM Labour and Employment Ministers' Conference in Germany in 2006 and its results, as well as the need to sustain the substantive ASEM dialogue and cooperation in this field, including with social partners. Leaders also recognised the need to strengthen the social dimension of globalisation, underlining that productive employment, decent work, the protection of the rights of all workers, and social cohesion are crucial for sustainable socioeconomic development. They welcomed the Indonesian offer to host the second Ministerial Conference in 2008. Furthermore, Leaders underlined that countries stand to benefit from an orderly and managed process of international migration and agreed to take forward actively cooperation on migration between Asia and Europe, such as through the ASEM Director-General level meetings on migratory flows.
24. Leaders emphasised that qualified human resources constitute a key factor for economic and social development. They recognised that globalisation poses challenges to human resources development affecting the entire field of education and training, and that both Asia and Europe are facing common issues such as managing financing and ensuring quality education and training for all. Leaders also underlined the importance of basic education, vocational training, and lifelong learning as investment in human resources. With this in mind, Leaders stressed the value of continued dialogue and exchange of best practices on questions related to education and training, and welcomed the offer by Germany to host the first ASEM Ministerial Meeting on Education in 2008. They also recognised the role of the ASEM DUO Fellowship Programme in promoting exchanges in the field of education.
25. Leaders recognised that investments in know-how and knowledge infrastructures play a key role in the promotion of scientific excellence, competitiveness and wellbeing of societies, also stressing the need for constructive interplay between different policy areas. To this end, Leaders discussed ways to enhance cooperation in the fields of innovation, science, and technology between all ASEM partners, and emphasised the importance of the EU Research Framework Programmes. In particular, they expressed their support for the ICT Ministerial Meeting to be organised in Vietnam in December 2006, and agreed that the possibility of a follow-up to the first Science and Technology Ministerial Conference should be studied. Furthermore, Leaders acknowledged the important role of the Trans-Eurasian Information Network (TEIN2) in extending connectivity between Asia and Europe in the fields of research and education, and supported its application in broader areas.
Sustainable Development including Environment and Energy Security
26. Leaders reiterated that economic development, social development, and environmental protection are interdependent and mutually reinforcing components of sustainable development. They endorsed the outcome of the 14th session of the Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD), and expressed their support for a successful and action-oriented outcome of CSD15 in 2007. Moreover, Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to eradicate poverty, to ensure the timely and full realisation of the MDGs and to promote global prosperity. To this end they emphasized the need for a substantial increase of resources from all sources, including domestic resources, official development assistance and other resources, as well as effective technical cooperation and capacity building to promote sustainable development and to support developing countries, in particular least developed ones.
27. Leaders emphasised the importance of respecting the limits of the planet's natural resources and of ensuring a high level of protection and improvement of the quality of the environment, including the marine environment. To this end, they underlined the need to manage sustainably and safeguard forest resources, to combat desertification and illegal logging, and to strengthen international cooperation on oceans and seas. Leaders also reiterated the importance of significantly reducing the rate of biodiversity loss by 2010. Furthermore, Leaders emphasised the importance of accelerating actions to promote sustainable production and consumption, such as the 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) Initiative and programmes of education for sustainable development. Leaders underlined the need to carry on the ASEM dialogue on environmental issues, and welcomed the offer by Denmark to host the next Environment Ministers' Meeting in 2007. In this respect, they also noted the valuable role of related activities including the ASEM Oceans Initiative and the Asia-Europe Environment Forum.
28. Leaders recognised that climate change poses a serious threat to sustainable development and the future of our planet. Acknowledging that the global nature of climate change calls for the widest possible cooperation and participation in an effective and appropriate international response, in accordance with the principles of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, they expressed their determination to respond to climate change through international cooperation, based on the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, with a view to achieving the ultimate objective of the Convention. To this end, Leaders adopted the ASEM6 Declaration on Climate Change (as annexed).
29. Leaders underlined the synergies between the promotion of energy security and addressing environmental concerns. They reaffirmed that encouraging energy efficiency and the use of renewable and alternative sources of energy improves access to sustainable, reliable, affordable and modern energy services, noting also that some countries have chosen nuclear power as an option. Furthermore, Leaders emphasised that providing access to energy for the poor contributes to the eradication of poverty in developing countries, as called for in the MDGs.
30. Leaders thoroughly discussed questions related to energy security, reiterating their earlier calls for multilateral measures to promote stable, effective, and transparent global energy markets, and agreed to cooperate in relevant international fora with a view to meeting these challenges. In this context, they noted the importance of the Energy Charter Treaty. Leaders also stressed the importance of strengthening mutually beneficial, open and stable legal conditions conducive to new investments in infrastructure both upstream and downstream. Moreover, they acknowledged that energy security can be enhanced by the diversification of energy sources and geographical origin, appropriate policies affecting energy demand, as well as by collaboration on research and development of renewable and alternative sources of energy. They also recognised the common interest in decreasing the dependency on oil in economies, emphasising measures such as better end-use efficiency and targeted investment and research programmes.
31. Leaders encouraged both public and private actors to further stimulate technological innovation, aiming at sustainable energy resources and energy efficiency through development, transfer, and deployment of technology, and foreseeing the implementation of a well-diversified and climate-friendly mix of technologies adapted to local circumstances. Leaders recognised the immediate mutual benefits of energy efficiency measures such as technology and best practices dissemination, supported by multi-stakeholder involvement including government and market incentives and extension of financing. They also underlined the need for investments in capacity building, such as energy audits and assessments, which enhance the systematic identification of cost-effective energy efficiency measures.
Dialogue among Cultures and Civilisations
32. Reiterating their commitment to further promotion of interactions between the peoples of Asia and Europe, Leaders underlined that dialogue and cooperation among cultures and civilisations are essential means to prevent and overcome ignorance and prejudice and to promote mutual understanding and tolerance. They reaffirmed their determination to respect, protect, and promote cultural diversity and the equal dignity of all cultures, and encouraged the implementation of the UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions. Leaders approved the Cultural Action Plan adopted in the 2nd ASEM Culture Ministers' Meeting in Paris in 2005, encouraging the Ministers, assisted by preparatory work undertaken by the Culture Senior Officials, to meet regularly from now on and welcoming Malaysia's offer to host the 3rd ASEM Culture Ministers' Meeting in 2007. Furthermore, Leaders expressed their support for actions to be carried out in Asia in the field of intercultural dialogue, parallel to and in cooperation with the European Year of Intercultural Dialogue in 2008, also appreciating the richness and variety of cultural festivals and cultural years in both Asian and European countries.
33. Leaders underlined the importance of the ASEM Interfaith Dialogue in contributing to the creation and reinforcement of an environment conducive to building harmony and understanding within the international community. In this context, they also noted the value of initiatives such as the UN Alliance of Civilisations and the UN Tripartite Forum on Interfaith Cooperation for Peace. Leaders firmly condemned the use of violence in the name of religion, denouncing any stereotyping on the basis of religion and reiterating their determination to stand united in the global efforts to cultivate a culture of peace, to increase mutual respect and to build confidence amongst people of all faiths. Furthermore, Leaders welcomed the outcomes of the Interfaith Dialogue, stressing the importance of translating the shared values of peace, compassion, and tolerance expounded in the Bali Declaration into practical actions. With this in mind, they expressed their support for the implementation of the Larnaca Action Plan.
Asia-Europe Foundation
34. Leaders reaffirmed their support for the role played by the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) in enhancing dialogue and cooperation between the peoples of Asia and Europe through intellectual, cultural, and people-to-people exchanges, underlining in particular the importance of involving the young and reaching out to civil society. They emphasised the importance of ASEF's flagship programmes in further aligning ASEF activities with ASEM priorities and encouraged ASEF to pursue this orientation. Furthermore they stressed the need to optimise ASEF's capacity in enhancing the visibility of ASEM. Leaders welcomed and endorsed the solution to secure ASEF's long-term financial sustainability as prepared by the ASEM Senior Officials.
The Future of ASEM
35. Leaders agreed that while continuing the process within the framework of three pillars, ASEM should start its second decade by focussing on key policy areas such as strengthening multilateralism and addressing global threats of common concern; globalisation, competitiveness and structural changes in the global economy including finance, labour issues, education and human resource development; health; science and technology including Information and Communication Technology (ICT); sustainable development with special focus on the MDG's, climate change, environment, and energy; and intercultural and Interfaith Dialogue as a means to promote mutual understanding. They adopted the ASEM work programme for 2006-2008 (as annexed) reflecting the important role of ASEM in further developing the comprehensive Asia-Europe relations.
36. Leaders warmly welcomed the two acceding EU Member States Bulgaria and Romania on the European side, as well as India, Mongolia, Pakistan and the ASEAN Secretariat on the Asian side, as from the time of completion of the respective internal procedures by the European and the Asian sides, to participate in the ASEM process. Leaders tasked the next Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Germany in 2007 to report on these internal procedures by the European and Asian sides and looked forward to the formal celebration of the admission of the new partners at the 2008 ASEM Summit in China.
37. Leaders adopted the Helsinki Declaration on the Future of ASEM and its Annex on Working Methods and Institutional Mechanisms (as annexed). They tasked the Senior Officials to continue policy discussions, and reflect on the possible need to adapt the Asia-Europe Cooperation Framework (AECF) 2000 to the requirements of ASEM's second decade and the new developments in the process.
38. Leaders accepted with gratitude the offer by China to host ASEM7 and looked forward to meeting again on 24-25 October 2008.
Helsinki, Finland
September 11, 2006
Chairman's Statement of the Fifth Asia-Europe Meeting, Hanoi, 8-9 October 2004
The fifth Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM 5) was held in Hanoi on 8-9 October 2004. The Summit was attended by the Heads of State and Government of thirteen Asian and twenty-five European nations, with the Prime Minister of Luxembourg acting also as the President of the European Council, and the President of the European Commission. The Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, H.E. Phan Van Khai chaired this momentous Meeting.
The Leaders, recalling the previous Summits in Bangkok (1996), London (1998), Seoul (2000) and Copenhagen (2002), held comprehensive, in-depth and fruitful discussions on a variety of issues of common interest and concern, under the overarching theme: "Further Revitalising and Substantiating the Asia-Europe Partnership".
The Leaders noted with satisfaction the progress made in the ASEM process on the basis of the principles agreed upon at previous Summits and set out in the Asia-Europe Cooperation Framework (AECF 2000). They noted with appreciation the positive outcomes of Foreign, Economic and Financial Ministers' Meetings, as well as the Meetings of Environment Ministers, Culture Ministers and ASEM High-Level Conference on Agricultural Cooperation since ASEM 4, and endorsed their recommendations.
1. Deepening Political Dialogue
1.1. The Leaders, reviewing the complex and profound changes in the current international situation since ASEM 4, underlined that these changes are of global and multi-dimensional nature, which present both opportunities and challenges for global peace and security, and for sustainable economic development. They agreed, however, that the prevailing trend continues to be of peace, cooperation and development.
1.2. The Leaders reaffirmed their determination to address new global challenges and threats such as instability, terrorism, separatism, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, trans-national crimes, negative aspects of globalisation, the widening gap between the rich and the poor, infectious diseases, environmental degradation and climate change. To this end, they agreed to strengthen coordination and cooperation in the context of ASEM dialogue and cooperation and the Asia-Europe partnership.
1.3. The Leaders, acknowledging that these serious challenges of global and multi-faceted nature should be addressed through a multilateral approach and collective actions through intensive dialogue and close cooperation on the basis of mutual understanding, equality and mutual benefit, reaffirmed their strong commitment to multilateralism and to a fair, just and rule-based international order, with the United Nations playing the central role.
1.4. The Leaders reiterated their support to the ongoing process of the reform of the United Nations and its principal organs, including the General Assembly and the Security Council, with a view to strengthening and enhancing the representativeness, transparency and effectiveness of the UN system. They underlined that ASEM countries are committed to making utmost efforts to ensure the success of the UNGA High-Level Plenary Meeting in 2005, addressing the implementation of all the commitments of the Millennium Declaration, including the Millennium Development Goals and the follow-up to the High-Level Panel on Threats, Challenges and Change. They also touched upon the International Criminal Court and agreed to continue dialogue on this issue.
1.5. The Leaders agreed on the need to reinforce multilateral dialogue and cooperation in ASEM as well as within regional and inter-regional frameworks, to help strengthen the global multilateral system. They underlined the need to ensure enhanced coordination on multilateral issues among ASEM partners, and endorsed recommendations by the Foreign Ministers to review existing ASEM procedure with a view to making proposals to strengthen ASEM coordination where appropriate in the multilateral framework, especially at the United Nations. They also welcomed the "ASEM Declaration on Multilateralism" by the ASEM Foreign Ministers in Kildare, Ireland in April 2004.
1.6. The Leaders condemned the series of terrorist attacks and expressed their deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of those killed in the terrorist attacks, particularly in Indonesia, Russia and Spain. They reaffirmed their strong commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, which remains a serious threat to international peace and security, sustainable development and political stability. They stressed that the fight against terrorism requires a comprehensive approach, collective efforts, and international cooperation where the United Nations plays the leading role, duly taking into account the root causes of terrorism. They also underlined that the fight against terrorism must be conducted in accordance with the principles enshrined in the UN Charter and basic norms of international law, including those of non-interference, respect for territorial integrity and national sovereignty, respect for human rights and the rule of law. They stressed the importance for the international community to ensure conclusion and implementation of all relevant counter-terrorism conventions and protocols, and the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolutions on counter-terrorism including Resolution 1373.
1.7. The Leaders, recalling their determination as expressed at ASEM 4, agreed on the need to further strengthen ASEM consultation, cooperation and coordination in the fight against terrorism through specific initiatives and practical measures and extension of capacity building assistance where needed. They noted with appreciation the results of the ASEM Seminar on anti-terrorism held in Beijing in September 2003, and looked forward to the next seminar to be held in Germany in October 2004. They also welcomed other initiatives on counter-terrorism undertaken recently by ASEM and among ASEM partners, as well as in the regional frameworks of the European Union, the ASEAN Regional Forum, the ASEAN Plus 3 and APEC.
1.8. The Leaders, noting the scourge of transnational crimes and their possible linkage with terrorism, agreed to work closely together and in accordance with the principles of the UN Charter and international law to effectively combat trans-national crimes and other non-traditional threats to international peace and security, such as money laundering, arms trafficking, trafficking in human beings, the production of and trafficking in illicit drugs, and computer crimes.
1.9. The Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery and their determination to deepen ASEM cooperation in this field. They underlined the need to strengthen multilateral approach and cooperation as well as respective multilateral instruments on non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, other WMD and their means of delivery, especially an enhanced role of the United Nations. They agreed that efforts aimed at non-proliferation should be in parallel with efforts towards disarmament, and the enhancement of international cooperation in research and use of technologies for peaceful purposes. They also expressed concern over the illicit trade related to WMD and their means of delivery, and demonstrated their strong resolve not to allow WMD and their means of delivery to fall into terrorist hands.
1.10. The Leaders took note of the results of the UN Bangkok Conference on AIDS and expressed their concern that the global HIV/AIDS epidemic, through its scale and impact, constitutes a global emergency. It provides a formidable challenge to human life and dignity, undermining social and economic development throughout the world and affecting all levels of society. They reaffirmed their commitment to the implementation of the Declaration of Commitment issued at the UN General Assembly Special Session on HIV/AIDS and agreed that the fight against HIV/AIDS should feature in the framework of ASEM cooperation.
1.11. The Leaders praised the role of the ASEM Environment Ministers in coordinating positions on global environment issues, particularly climate change. They underlined the need to pursue and intensify the coordination on environment issues and look forward to the next Environment Ministerial Meeting. They confirmed their belief that climate change remains one of the most serious environmental challenges facing the planet. They confirmed their support to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and emphasised the important role of its Kyoto Protocol as the only existing global instrument to pursue the ultimate objective of the UN Framework Convention. They welcomed the decision of the Government of the Russian Federation to submit the proposal to ratify the Kyoto Protocol to the State Duma, and urged countries that have not yet ratified the Kyoto Protocol to do so soon. They will work together for the post 2012 framework to develop global action on the basis of an international partnership which enables the participation of all countries based on their common but differentiated responsibilities in order to meet the objectives of the UNFCCC and increase the effectiveness of action in addressing climate change.
1.12. The Leaders underlined the need to reinforce ASEM cooperation in the field of international migration through the concrete actions identified by ASEM senior officials in charge of migration, and expressed support for UN efforts to tackle migration issues.
2. Closer Economic Partnership
2.1. The Leaders welcomed Asia's growing importance in the global economy and the overall economic growth rates of the EU. They encouraged the ASEM partners to continue domestic economic reform in accordance with their respective needs and priorities with a view to ensuring sustained development.
2.2. The Leaders reaffirmed their determination to bring forward the Asia-Europe economic partnership to a new stage of comprehensive and forward-looking cooperation, and to this end, adopted the "Hanoi Declaration on Closer ASEM Economic Partnership", which sets out directions and measures for strengthening ASEM economic cooperation. They tasked Ministers to undertake the accelerated implementation of this important Declaration.
2.3. The Leaders agreed on the need to intensify and focus ASEM economic activities on enhancing Asia-Europe trade and investment facilitation and promotion; strengthening coordination and cooperation on financial issues, including possible greater cooperation among regional bond markets; expanding cooperation in areas of common interest such as information & communication technology and knowledge-based economy, energy, transport, tourism, intellectual property rights, small and medium enterprises; promoting sustainable economic growth, dialogue on employment, and the reduction of development gap among ASEM partners; enhancing the role and deeper involvement of the business community.
2.4. The Leaders expressed the concern over high oil prices that could slow down regions' economic growth. They thus agreed on the need to call on oil producers to provide adequate supplies to ensure moderate prices, and stressed the importance of energy conservation and the increase in energy efficiency in consumer nations.
2.5. The Leaders highly appreciated the thoughtful and important recommendations submitted by the ASEM Task Force for an Asia-Europe closer economic partnership, and tasked Economic and Financial Ministers and their Senior Officials to review and follow up with its positive recommendations, including the development of an Asian bond market and the ASEM Virtual Promotion Center for Trade, Investment and Tourism, where practical and feasible, in their future work with a view to achieving concrete outcomes.
2.6. The Leaders agreed to promote and strengthen interaction between Government and the business community for closer Asia-Europe economic partnership. They welcomed positive recommendations made by the 9th Asia-Europe Business Forum in this regard, and tasked Economic and Financial Ministers and their Senior Officials to study the applicability of these recommendations and report to ASEM 6.
2.7. The Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to an open and fair multilateral trading system under the World Trade Organization (WTO), and agreed to further strengthen ASEM collaboration and coordination on WTO-related issues for a successful conclusion of the Doha negotiations. They thus expressed their strong support for early accession of the Lao PDR and Vietnam to the WTO.
2.8. The Leaders congratulated WTO members on reaching an agreement on the Framework for the Doha Development Agenda (DDA) negotiations in Geneva, and urged WTO members to undertake the remaining work aimed at achieving balanced and sustained progress in the future negotiations.
2.9. The Leaders, welcoming initiatives for economic integration based on non-discriminatory regionalism, underlined the need to ensure that all regional and bilateral agreements of economic integration should be consistent with WTO rules.
3. Expanding and Strengthening Cooperation in Other Fields
3.1. The Leaders acknowledged that dialogue and cooperation among cultures and civilizations is one of effective measures to enhance understanding and tolerance among people. They underlined the importance of dialogue on cultures and civilizations in preserving world peace, security and cooperation for development, particularly in context of globalization.
3.2. The Leaders adopted the "ASEM Declaration on Dialogue among Cultures and Civilizations", expressing their shared conviction on this important topic and reaffirming their strong commitment to further promote this dialogue at all levels within ASEM framework on the basis of mutual respect and equality.
3.3. The Leaders, noting with satisfaction all ASEM activities in promoting dialogue among cultures and civilizations, supported recommendations adopted by Ministers at the First ASEM Conference on Cultures and Civilizations held in Beijing in December 2003, and requested the Second Conference to be held in France in 2005 to develop a long-term plan for ASEM dialogue and cooperation in this important field. They encouraged the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) to make further contribution to this dialogue through undertaking concrete activities and programs. They also welcomed the planned inter-faith dialogue to be held in Indonesia in 2005.
3.4. The Leaders underlined their conviction that the cultural diversity is the common heritage of humanity, and agreed on the need to promote unity in diversity and respect for the equal dignity of all cultures and civilizations. They emphasized in particular the need to preserve the national cultural identity, in face of the ongoing rapid advances of information & communication technology and globalization, and rejected the imposition and discrimination of culture values under any form or manifestation. In this respect, they underlined their commitment to pursue dialogue within the UNESCO in the course of ongoing negotiations on a draft convention on cultural diversity.
3.5. The Leaders acknowledged the importance and potentials for Asia-Europe cooperation at all levels in various fields such as social development, labor and employment, education and training, public health and environment. They agreed to further expand and strengthen ASEM cooperation in these fields, and tasked Ministers to work out action- and result-oriented programs to this end.
3.6. The Leaders appreciated the important work carried out by the ASEF to foster people-to-people, cultural and intellectual exchanges between Asia and Europe. They adopted the recommendations for Organizational and Management Strategies and Long-Term Financial Sustainability of ASEF as annexed to further encourage the Foundation's activities so as to align more closely with the ASEM process. They welcomed the launching of the ASEM Infoboard as a pilot project by ASEF. They encouraged new partners to participate in ASEF, and the ASEF Executive Office to make necessary arrangements so that the Board of Governors' meeting in November 2004 in Hanoi would include representatives from new ASEM members.
4. Recent Regional Developments
4.1. The Leaders welcomed the integration process of the European Union, including its latest membership enlargement, which would help promote peace, stability and development in Europe. They also welcomed efforts towards closer cooperation in Asia, especially the ASEAN's determination to build an ASEAN Community by 2020 as specifically reflected in the Bali Concord II, as well as enhanced cooperation under the framework of the ASEAN Plus 3, ACD and trilateral cooperation among China, Japan and the ROK.
4.2. The Leaders noted that these latest developments in Asia and Europe would present both opportunities and challenges for ASEM in the process of enhancing dialogue and cooperation. They urged ASEM partners to make every effort to fully exploit all potentials to develop Asia-Europe synergy and effectively deal with the challenges, including possible implications on the promotion of Asia-Europe partnership.
4.3. The Leaders expressed their strong support for the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula through a peaceful solution and the Six-Party Talks process, and urged the earliest resumption of the Six-Party Talks. They encouraged the parties to continue to take coordinated steps to address the nuclear issue and address all the related concerns. They also supported the continued dialogue and cooperation between the ROK and the DPRK, which would in turn help promote peace and mutual prosperity on the Korean Peninsula.
4.4. The Leaders discussed the situation in the Middle East and urged both parties to implement their respective obligations under the Road Map with a view to paving the way for the two-state solution.
4.5. The Leaders confirmed their support to the Interim Iraqi Government in its effort to ensure security and stability in the country, and their willingness to engage together with the UN and the international community to achieve these goals and to contribute to the reconstruction of Iraq. They also look forward to the holding of elections as scheduled for January 2005, and immediately thereafter, the formation of a constitutionally-elected government of Iraq.
4.6. The Leaders expressed their support for the reconstruction and stabilization of Afghanistan and for the Afghan Transitional Administration. In this regard, they noted with concern the continuing threats posed by terrorist activities and by opium production and trafficking, and recalled the need for comprehensive disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration of all armed factions. They welcomed the Presidential election taking place on 9 October 2004 and expressed their hope that it would bring about peace and security for the country and stabilize the democratization process.
4.7. The Leaders took note of the briefing on the recent political developments in Myanmar given by the Head of the Myanmar delegation. In this connection, they encouraged all stakeholders in the country to work together to ensure a successful outcome of the ongoing national reconciliation process. The National Convention should be an important element in the national reconciliation and democratization process and a forum for a genuine open debate with the participation of all political groups in the country. They looked forward to the early lifting of restrictions placed on political parties in accordance with the assurances given by Myanmar. They also reaffirmed their support for the efforts of the Special Envoy of the UN Secretary General.
5. Taking the ASEM Process Forward
5.1. The Leaders, noting with satisfaction the dynamic development and significant achievements of the ASEM process since its inception, underlined the need for ASEM to provide a foundation and framework for fostering the Asia-Europe comprehensive partnership in the 21st century. To this end, they agreed to further revitalise and substantiate the ASEM process, moving towards enhanced cooperation with specific goals and resulted-oriented programs/projects. They tasked the SOM to elaborate on areas of substantive cooperation for consideration at the next Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Kyoto, 2005.
5.2. The Leaders agreed that the development of ASEM which remains an open, evolutionary and informal process should continue to be based on the objectives and key principles as set out in the Asia-Europe Cooperation Framework (AECF 2000) adopted by ASEM 3. They reiterated the importance of full participation at the highest level by all Leaders and the need to carry forward in a balanced manner the three key pillars by strengthening political dialogue, reinforcing economic cooperation and promoting cooperation in other areas.
5.3. The Leaders also agreed on the need to continue the improvement of the ASEM coordination and management mechanism as commensurate with the nature and development level of ASEM. To this end, they endorsed the Foreign Ministers' "Recommendations on ASEM Working Methods" as annexed, which shall constitute an integral part of the AECF 2000.
6. ASEM Enlargement
6.1. The Leaders warmly welcomed the admission into ASEM of 13 countries, namely the Kingdom of Cambodia, the Republic of Cyprus, the Czech Republic, the Republic of Estonia, the Republic of Hungary, the Lao People's Democratic Republic, the Republic of Latvia, the Republic of Lithuania, the Republic of Malta, the Union of Myanmar, the Republic of Poland, the Slovak Republic and the Republic of Slovenia.
6.2. The Leaders, commending the enlargement as an important milestone in the evolution of the ASEM process, underlined that the participation of the 13 new members would provide greater dynamism to the ASEM process, help enhance and expand Asia-Europe dialogue and cooperation. They stressed the need to assist and facilitate the active engagement of the new members into the ASEM process, with a view to strengthening the unity in diversity within ASEM.
6.3. The Leaders, emphasizing the need to consolidate the ASEM process after the enlargement, agreed to consider future enlargement, taking into account the continued EU enlargement and important role of other candidates. They tasked Foreign Ministers and Senior Officials to study and submit their recommendations on the continued improvement of ASEM institutional mechanism, including the possibility of moving towards an ASEM Secretariat at an appropriate time, and the issue of future membership enlargement, based on their ideas expressed at ASEM 5.
7. The Leaders adopted a list of new initiatives to promote cooperation on various fields as annexed. They also adopted the ASEM Work Programme for 2004-2006 as annexed.
8. The Leaders accepted with gratitude Finland's offer to host ASEM 6 and looked forward to meeting again on 14-15 September 2006.
Hanoi, Vietnam
9 October 2004
Source: http://www.asem5.gov.vn/detail_new.asp?id=209&langid=2&menuid=86&curentmenuid=86
Chairman's Statement of the Fourth Asia-Europe Meeting, Copenhagen, 23-24 September 2002
The fourth Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM 4) was held in Copenhagen on 23-24 September 2002. The Summit was attended by the Heads of State and Government of ten Asian and fifteen European nations and the President of the European Commission, with the Prime Minister of Denmark acting also as President of the Council of the European Union.
Leaders, recalling their previous Summits in Bangkok (1996), London (1998) and Seoul (2000), held comprehensive, in-depth and fruitful discussions on a variety of issues of common interest and concern. Leaders noted with satisfaction the progress made in the ASEM process on the basis of the principles agreed on at previous Summits and set out in the Asia-Europe Cooperation Framework (AECF 2000).
Leaders noted with appreciation the positive outcomes of Foreign, Economic and Financial Ministers' Meetings in 2001 and 2002, as well as the meetings of Environment Ministers and Ministers in charge of managing migratory flows, and endorsed their recommendations.
Political dialogue on the challenges of the 21 st century
Leaders took the general international security situation as their point of departure and had a broad-based and forward-looking discussion of the new security challenges in the aftermath of the tragic events of September 11.
Leaders underlined their resolve to fight international terrorism, while taking into account the multiple reasons leading to the emergence of terrorism. They pledged to work closely together to combat this threat to global peace and security, sustainable economic development and political stability, and emphasised that the fight against terrorism must be based on the leading role of the United Nations and the principles of the UN Charter. To this end, Leaders adopted the ASEM Copenhagen Declaration on Cooperation against International Terrorism and the ASEM Copenhagen Cooperation Programme on Fighting International Terrorism, as annexed. Leaders also endorsed the initiative to hold an ASEM Seminar on Anti-terrorism.
Drawing on the positive experience of the consultative meeting of ASEM partners in the margins of the United Nations General Assembly, Leaders agreed that ASEM partners should continue this political dialogue, and decided to establish an ad hoc informal consultative mechanism enabling ASEM Coordinators and Senior Officials to confer expeditiously on significant international events.
Unity in diversity
Leaders underlined that September 11 has clearly demonstrated that the ASEM process, encompassing peoples of various cultures and from different civilizations, is an asset in international relations that merits further development. In this spirit, Leaders held for the first time a retreat session under the heading "Dialogue on Cultures and Civilizations". The dialogue was conducted on the basis of respect for the equal dignity of all civilizations and the conviction that cultural diversity is an asset. Leaders emphasised that the already existing constructive bi-regional discourse in ASEM should serve to promote unity in diversity.
The importance of education, narrowing of the digital divide and equal access to information were deemed crucial in overcoming and preventing pre-conceived opinions, stereotypes and prejudices among present and future ASEM generations. To this end, they pledged to continue this useful exchange at future meetings, tasked Ministers with developing further the dialogue on cultures and civilizations at all levels of ASEM cooperation, and endorsed a follow-up ASEM Conference on Cultures and Civilizations at the political level. Leaders invited ASEF to continue contributing to this dialogue through publications focused on these issues.
Ministers were also requested to collaborate in organising the first ever "ASEM Youth Games". Such an event will foster further people-to-people contacts and raise mutual awareness and understanding between the two regions.
Leaders welcomed a proposal to organise a meeting in the framework of ASEM in Athens in connection with the ARTIADE ATHENS 2004 Olympic Games of the Visual Arts.
Leaders proposed to study the possibility of establishing a connection between the annual European Capitals of Culture and Asian counterparts.
Recent regional developments
Leaders were informed about the latest developments on the Korean Peninsula. They adopted the ASEM Copenhagen Political Declaration for Peace on the Korean Peninsula, as annexed, thereby reaffirming their support for the peaceful process of inter-Korean reconciliation and cooperation. In this regard, Leaders welcomed the progress recently made towards realising a number of projects for inter-Korean cooperation. They took note that the re-establishment of the railway links could eventually lead to a Trans-Eurasian railway (the "Iron Silk Road"). This link would have positive effects on the region-to-region exchanges.
Leaders also discussed the Iraq issue and the situation in the Middle East.
Leaders took note of perspectives for EU enlargement and the resulting positive outlook for the world economy.
Asian Leaders commended the European Union for the successful introduction of the Euro and expressed their interest in the role of the Euro as a major reserve, transaction and reference currency.
Leaders took note of the progress made by Asian partners in their regional cooperation, such as ASEAN+3 and the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD).
Closer economic partnership
Leaders addressed economic and financial priorities in the context of the global economic situation and reiterated their firm intention to revitalise their economies after the transitory shock of September 11. They sent a strong political signal confirming their commitment to enhance economic relations between the two regions, thereby contributing to achieving sustainable growth in the world economy.
Leaders expressed their undiminished commitment to a strong, open, transparent and fair multilateral trading system, and agreed that the WTO work programme launched at Doha represented a unique opportunity to promote economic growth to the benefit of their societies. They stressed their commitment to ensure balanced progress on all issues under the Doha work programme, and underlined that the development dimension and the needs of the developing countries should continue to be a central component. Leaders agreed that further trade liberalisation and the strengthening and further development of WTO rules should go forward together in a mutually reinforcing manner, so as to stimulate economic growth, enhance predictability, manage the challenges of globalisation and support sustainable development. Leaders endorsed the support expressed at the fourth ASEM Economic Ministers' Meeting regarding the acceleration of Vietnam's WTO accession.
Leaders appreciated the progress in increasing mutual understanding and transparency, the overcoming of barriers to trade and investment between the two regions, achieved through the implementation of the Trade Facilitation and Investment Promotion Action Plans during the past two years, as well as the new goals agreed for the future. Furthermore, they recognised that the ASEM process constitutes an effective means for consultation and dialogue on the WTO Doha Round, particularly in the run-up to the WTO ministerial meeting in Cancun in 2003. Leaders therefore welcomed as a new initiative a flexible framework for consultation and dialogue on economic issues launched by Economic Ministers at their fourth meeting, i.e. two rounds of consultations on the Doha Development Agenda by WTO experts, an ASEM Symposium on Multilateral and Regional Economic Relations as well as an ASEM High-Level Conference on Agricultural Cooperation. In addition, they endorsed a workshop on Building Market Systems in the Context of Globalisation.
Reviewing developments concerning economic integration in their respective regions, Leaders expressed their desire to deepen economic cooperation between Asia and Europe. Following the successful conclusion of the Doha Development Agenda, region-to-region cooperation should be enhanced, including through new steps aimed at furthering economic integration between the two regions. Leaders underlined that closer economic links and the enhancement of the information and communication technology cooperation among ASEM partners, such as the Trans-Eurasia Information Network, form the basis of a strong partnership between Asia and Europe.
Leaders agreed to work towards a closer ASEM economic partnership. To this end, they tasked ASEM Coordinators to set up an action-oriented Taskforce. Taking into account work already carried out within the ASEM economic pillar, this Taskforce should consider three areas: Trade, Investment and Finance. These areas could include issues such as creation of a Eurobond market in Asia and use of the Euro as an international currency. The Taskforce should consist of five experts from each of the two regions. Leaders requested that an interim report be prepared for submission to Foreign, Economic and Finance Ministers in 2003, with a view to submitting a final report to ASEM 5.
Human resources development, social cohesion and environmental cooperation
Leaders addressed adverse consequences of globalisation. They stressed the importance of human resources development and education as factors for employability and alleviation of poverty and encouraged increased educational exchange to foster mutual understanding between the two regions. They welcomed the broadening of the ASEM-DUO Fellowship Programme and encouraged expansion of educational exchange among ASEM partners by building on this and other such initiatives. Leaders endorsed an ASEM Seminar on Educational Exchange aimed at collecting and disseminating information on ASEM-wide exchange schemes.
In view of the interplay between economic growth and progress in the social sphere, and in order to ensure long-term social cohesion, Leaders endorsed an ASEM Workshop on the Future of Employment and the Quality of Labour.
In addition, Leaders endorsed an initiative on Asia-Europe Cooperation in Promoting Awareness in the Young Generation of the Drug Problem.
Leaders underlined the importance of the ASEM dialogue on environmental matters leading up to the next ASEM Environment Ministers' Meeting in 2003. They reaffirmed their political will to implement the commitments made at the World Summit on Sustainable Development and welcomed the new international targets on sanitation, energy, sustainable consumption and production, chemicals and biodiversity. Leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to address climate change and stressed the need for further action within the framework of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol.
Deepening ASEM cooperation
Leaders affirmed that the relations between Asia and Europe had become closer, more extensive and more important than ever, and that ASEM has entered a new stage of dynamic development. They committed themselves to deepening understanding, expanding common ground and to further enhancing cooperation.
Leaders noted with satisfaction the results of the many ASEM activities and initiatives carried out since ASEM 3 as reported to the Summit. Appreciating the very informal, substantive and interactive discussions at this Summit, Leaders looked forward to continuing the ASEM process in a deepened and broadened manner. They agreed that the fight against international terrorism and transnational organised crime, closer economic partnership, cooperation in the social, educational and environmental fields as well as dialogue on cultures and civilizations are among the foremost priorities among the upcoming activities listed in the ASEM Calendar 2002-2004, as annexed.
Leaders appreciated the important work carried out by the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) to foster people-to-people, cultural and intellectual exchanges. They urged ASEM partners to adopt the necessary measures to ensure ASEF's long-term financial sustainability before the next Summit.
Leaders accepted with gratitude Vietnam's offer to host ASEM 5 and looked forward to meeting again in 2004.
Copenhagen, 24 September 2002
Source: http://ec.europa.eu/comm/external_relations/asem/asem_summits/asem4/stat.htm
Chairman's Statement of the Third Asia-Europe Meeting, Seoul, 20-21 October 2000
Introduction
1. The Third Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM 3) was held in Seoul on 20-21 October 2000. It was attended by Heads of State and Government from ten Asian and fifteen European nations, with the President of the French Republic acting also as President of the Council of the European Union, and the President of the European Commission. Leaders were accompanied by their Foreign Ministers, a member of the European Commission and other Ministers. This momentous Meeting was chaired by the President of the Republic of Korea.
2. Leaders recalled the inaugural Summit in Bangkok on 1-2 March 1996 (ASEM 1), which forged a new comprehensive Asia-Europe Partnership for Greater Growth, envisaging cooperation between Asia and Europe in the political, economic, cultural and other areas, and the second Summit in London on 3-4 April 1998 (ASEM 2), where Leaders reinforced this partnership notably through their commitment to working together to address the economic and financial crisis in Asia.
Leaders recognized the Third ASEM in Seoul as a historic milestone in the evolution of the ASEM process, which provided a unique opportunity both to review achievements to date and to set the broad direction to take ASEM forward into a new millennium. Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the Asia-Europe partnership and confirmed their intention to meet again at ASEM 4 in Copenhagen in 2002.
3. Leaders noted with satisfaction the progress made in the ASEM process since the Second ASEM on the basis of the principles agreed at the Bangkok and London Summits and set out in the Asia-Europe Cooperation Framework(AECF). They appreciated the discussions at the second Foreign, Economic and Finance Ministers' Meetings in 1999 and welcomed the holding of the Science and Technology Ministers' Meeting also in 1999.
Developments in the Two Regions
4. Leaders noted with particular satisfaction the clear signs of recovery in the Asian countries affected by the financial and economic crisis and recognized the importance of continued reform in the light of specific situations in countries concerned. They acknowledged that ASEM had played a crucial role in bringing Asia and Europe together to work in conjunction to address this crisis. They expressed their confidence that the renewed economic dynamism of Asia and the growing economic strength of Europe would in synergy promote prosperity and stability in both regions, thereby benefiting the international community as a whole in this increasingly interdependent world.
In this regard, expressing concern over volatility in oil prices, Leaders shared the view that ensuring a stable supply of energy, including oil and other fuels, was vital to the maintenance of long-term economic growth for all ASEM partners and the world at large.
5. Leaders welcomed the admission of Cambodia as a new member of ASEAN at the Special ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Hanoi in April 1999 ("ASEAN 10") and noted ASEAN's achievement of their goal of embracing all the ten countries in Southeast Asia. They also acknowledged that great progress had been made in East Asian cooperation at the ASEAN + 3 Summit held in Manila in November 1999, where ASEAN countries, China, Japan and the Republic of Korea affirmed the importance of meeting on a regular basis and adopted the Joint Statement on East Asia Cooperation. In this connection, they welcomed the progress made at the inaugural ASEAN+3 Foreign Ministers' Meeting held in Bangkok in July 2000. They further welcomed the progress made at the ASEAN+3 Finance Ministers' Meeting held in Chiang Mai in May 2000 and the ASEAN+3 Economic Ministers' Meeting also held in Chiang Mai in October 2000, as further strengthening East Asian financial and economic cooperation .
Leaders also took note of the continued development of the ASEAN Regional Forum(ARF) as an important forum for dialogue and cooperation on regional, political and security issues and welcomed the admission of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea(DPRK) in July 2000 as a significant step which has further strengthened the ARF and would help contribute to advancing the cause of regional peace and security.
6. Leaders welcomed the introduction of the euro and noted that it will contribute to greater exchange rate stability in the international monetary system. They also noted progress in the European Union Intergovernmental Conference to strengthen institutions of the European Union as well as in the European Union enlargement process. They further noted developments in security cooperation within the context of the Common Foreign and Security Policy, such as the European Security and Defence Policy.
Fostering Political Dialogue
7. Leaders noted that on the basis of the guiding principles for conducting political dialogue as established at the Bangkok and London Summits, the first and second ASEM Foreign Ministers' Meetings, and the regular Senior Officials' Meetings had been the occasion for useful discussions of regional and global issues of common concern, and had contributed to enhancing mutual awareness and understanding between partners.
8. Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing a secure international environment for all countries and to intensifying cooperation between Asia and Europe with a view to contributing towards international peace, stability and prosperity, and respect for international law. From this standpoint, they engaged in detailed discussions on regional and international issues of common interest.
Leaders welcomed the historic first inter-Korean Summit held in June 2000 in Pyongyang and acknowledged the great significance of this event which has laid the foundation for the peace process on the Korean peninsula. In recognition of the importance of this process, a separate declaration has been issued on the recent developments on the Korean peninsula.
Leaders welcomed the progress toward the restoration of stability in East Timor and encouraged further efforts by UNTAET, in cooperation with the countries closely involved, in order to guarantee the success of the transition process. They shared the view that the rehabilitation and nation building process in East Timor should be actively and continuously supported by the international community as a whole . They also recognized the important steps taken and the urgency to solve the problems still remaining, concerning the East Timorese refugees in West Timor, in a comprehensive manner. These actions should be aimed at ensuring reconciliation, peace and harmony for all Timorese.
Leaders stressed the importance of developing cooperation between the states of Southeastern Europe and in this context welcomed the Stability Pact and noted its aims. They also underlined the importance of the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1244 in Kosovo.
Leaders expressed their concern at the situation in the Middle East. They welcomed the Summit in Sharm El Sheikh, which reached an agreement on measures in order to put an end to violence. They called upon the parties to put those measures into effect without delay.
Leaders welcomed the successful conclusion of the Millennium Summit held on 6-8 September this year at the headquarters of the United Nations. They particularly welcomed world leaders' renewed commitment to the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter and reaffirmed the key objectives of the international community in the 21st century as identified in the Millennium Declaration. In this context, Leaders expressed their commitment to UN reform, with the goal of strengthening and enhancing the representativeness, transparency and effectiveness of the UN system, including the Security Council. They also called for better coordination between the UN and other relevant organizations in the area of development cooperation and confirmed the importance of sounder UN finances as well as providing the UN with sufficient financial resources to enable it to fulfill its mandate.
Leaders committed themselves to promote and protect all human rights, including the right to development, and fundamental freedoms, bearing in mind their universal, indivisible and interdependent character as expressed at the World Conference on Human Rights in Vienna.
Expressing their grave concern over the recurrent armed conflicts around the world, Leaders agreed to work together for effective prevention of conflicts in conformity with the UN Charter and international law. They also underlined the importance of maintaining global strategic balance and stability, and strengthening regional and global initiatives on arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons of mass-destruction. They further expressed their determination to preserve the integrity and validity of existing international arms control and disarmament treaties and to further develop ASEM dialogue and cooperation in these fields. They welcomed the successful results of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) Review Conference and looked forward to the full implementation of the Final Document adopted by consensus at the Conference. They reaffirmed their support for: the early entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty; an immediate commencement of the negotiations in the Conference on Disarmament on a Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty, within the framework of an agreed working programme, with a view to their conclusion within five years; and an early conclusion of Ad Hoc Group negotiations on measures to strengthen the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention. They further noted the progress made by the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in implementing the Chemical Weapons Convention and stressed the need to actively promote universality. Leaders appreciated the international community's efforts to deal with the suffering and casualties caused by indiscriminate use of anti-personnel land mines (APL) and support international assistance for training in demining, the removal of unexploded ordnance and the rehabilitation of victims. They also stressed the need to address the issue of small arms and light weapons, and agreed to work together for the success of the UN Conference on the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects in 2001.
Leaders shared the view that a rapidly changing world represents formidable challenges to the whole international community. In this regard, they expressed their commitment to ASEM playing a constructive role in promoting increased multilateral dialogue and cooperation, based on equal partnership, mutual respect and mutual benefit, and in building a new international political and economic order in light of the growing interdependence of Asia and Europe and the changing international environment.
9. Building on the conclusions of the Bangkok and London Summits and the Asia-Europe Cooperation Framework 2000, Leaders expressed their commitment to addressing global issues of common concern such as managing migratory flows in a globalized world and transnational crime, including money laundering; smuggling and exploitation of migrants and trafficking in persons, in particular of women and children for the purpose of sexual exploitation; international terrorism and piracy; racism and xenophobia; the fight against illegal drugs; the welfare of women and children; community health care improvement; the fight against HIV/AIDS, infectious and parasitic diseases; as well as food security and supply. In this respect, Leaders expressed their firm support for the adoption of the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime and its protocols by the end of the year 2000.
Leaders acknowledged that the degradation of the natural resource base and, in particular, the problem of energy and environment, is a challenge for all ASEM partners and reiterated their commitment to addressing global environmental issues, to ensuring a successful Sixth Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in November 2000, and to working towards the early entry into force of the Kyoto Protocol. In this context, they underscored the great importance of environmental protection and enhanced cooperation among ASEM partners. In this connection, they noted with appreciation the progress made by the Asia-Europe Environmental Technology Centre (AEETC) in Thailand since its formal opening in March 1999 and supported its efforts to act as a catalyst for enhanced cooperation in the environmental field.
Reinforcing Cooperation in the Economic and Financial Fields
10. Leaders committed themselves to promoting greater economic linkages between ASEM partners as an indispensable element of a strong partnership between the two regions. They noted in particular the substantial contribution of the trade and investment pledge made at ASEM 2 in stabilizing the economies hit by the Asian crisis and providing a strong basis for renewed growth in the region. They also welcomed the results of the second Economic Ministers' Meeting held in Berlin in October 1999 and those of the Senior Officials' Meetings on Trade and Investment.
Leaders decided to further intensify their efforts to increase trade and investment flows between the two regions and expressed satisfaction with the progress made in relation to the Trade Facilitation Action Plan (TFAP), particularly the concrete goals achieved since ASEM 2 as reflected in the report of the overall evaluation of TFAP, the addition of e-commerce as a new priority area, and the agreement to prepare voluntary annual reports on the status of individual partners to overcome the major generic barriers to trade as identified collectively by ASEM partners. They also noted the positive steps taken by SOMTI in implementing the Investment Promotion Action Plan (IPAP) including the expansion of the Virtual Information Exchange (VIE) website, which provides, inter alia , information on the investment regimes and opportunities of partners, and the compilation of a list of most effective measures to promote foreign direct investment (FDI), which was endorsed by Economic Ministers as a non-binding benchmark for partners. They asked Economic Ministers to maintain the momentum to ensure that these, and other mechanisms to be developed, will be implemented effectively to strengthen trade and investment regimes between Asia and Europe in an open and transparent manner. To this end, they endorsed the work programme annexed to the Trade Facilitation Action Plan: TFAP Deliverables and Goals for 2000-2002.
In this age of knowledge, information and globalization, Leaders recognized the importance of cooperation in the areas of information and communications technology as well as trade and investment. Leaders shared the view that information and communications technology have become pivotal engines of growth in the world economy and also that the resulting digital divide would deepen economic and social disparities in and among countries. With this in mind, they agreed to accelerate efforts to address the digital divide to promote the joint prosperity of the two regions and instructed Economic Ministers to review the progress made in this area. In this context, they also emphasized the need to establish and expand information and research networks between the two regions and among ASEM partners in order to facilitate the flow of knowledge and information as well as research exchanges.
11. Leaders reiterated the importance of a rules-based multilateral trading system in promoting global growth, prosperity and sustainable development and meeting the challenges of globalization. In this regard, they underlined their commitment to work together to promote further liberalization and to strengthen and develop rules through a new round of multilateral trade negotiations. They agreed to intensify their efforts with other WTO Members to launch such a round at the earliest opportunity. The negotiating agenda should reflect an overall balance, which responds to the interests of all WTO Members, including developing country Members. This would more likely be achieved by an inclusive approach to the agenda setting, with no a priori exclusion of subjects of interest to individual WTO Members, seeking to secure the WTO's continued relevance in the globalized world economy. To this end, they stressed that strong political will and greater flexibility as well as open and constructive dialogue among all WTO members would be necessary to lay the ground for the necessary consensus decision on the launching of a round.
Leaders welcomed the positive and constructive manner in which the negotiations under the built-in agenda have so far been carried out and pledged to actively pursue these negotiations in good faith. They recognized that more meaningful and balanced results within a reasonable time frame could be achieved if negotiations were conducted as part of a new round. In this regard, there was also a general understanding among them that further progress in the mandated negotiations would in turn have a positive effect on such multilateral negotiations.
Leaders also stressed that the interests and concerns of developing and least-developed countries should be duly addressed through various means, including, inter alia , improved market access opportunities and technical assistance for enhanced capacity-building, and addressing issues related to the implementation of Uruguay Round undertakings.
Leaders recognized that full participation in the WTO by ASEM partners will strengthen the system and reaffirmed their support for the acceleration of current accession negotiations of ASEM non-WTO Members, through the exchange of information, experience and technical cooperation, that would be based on mutually acceptable market access commitments and adherence to WTO rules. Leaders also stressed the importance of sustaining broad public support for the multilateral trading system and agreed to strengthen efforts to improve their engagement with the public regarding the benefits and challenges of trade liberalization.
Noting that the number of regional trade arrangements has been increasing in recent years, Leaders stressed the primacy of a multilateral trading system. In this regard, they agreed to ensure that all regional trade arrangements are consistent with WTO rules, complementing the multilateral trading system.
12. Noting with satisfaction that with substantial support from the international community, Asia is well on the way to recovery from the economic and financial crisis which broke out in 1997, Leaders assessed the status of ASEM activities aimed at strengthening cooperation in the financial area, particularly in preventing the recurrence of a crisis.
In this context, they reviewed the results of the second Finance Ministers' Meeting held in Frankfurt/Main in January 1999 and thereby recognized the significant impact of specific initiatives such as the ASEM Trust Fund and the European Financial Expertise Network in addressing problems in the financial and social sectors. They welcomed the progress made in the implementation of sound financial regulation, in particular in the Basel Core Principles for effective banking supervision. They also welcomed the steps already taken to strengthen the international financial architecture. Leaders recalled the crucial role of reform in creating the conditions for sound long-term growth, and invited European and Asian partners to exchange experiences on their respective economic reform efforts.
Leaders welcomed the achievements of the ASEM Trust Fund (ATF) in helping alleviate the impact of the economic and financial crisis on affected Asian countries. They supported the extension of the ATF into a Phase 2. In this connection, they called on the Finance Ministers in their Meeting in Kobe in January 2001 to determine the modalities for a Phase 2 ATF.
Upon assessing the vulnerability of the international financial market, Leaders agreed to take further measures to strengthen the international financial system and ensure long-term stability, stressing the importance of domestic financial reform and corporate governance. They agreed to make every effort to put the principle of orderly financial liberalization into practice. Leaders emphasized the need to implement codes and standards. They took note of the Financial Stability Forum's work on Highly Leveraged Institutions, and stressed the importance of implementing indirect regulations. They stressed that direct regulation would be considered if, upon review, the implementation of indirect regulation was not adequately addressing the concerns identified. They also reaffirmed that they remained committed to addressing potential problems associated with international volatile capital movement. In addition, they reiterated the need to enhance regulation in problematic Offshore Financial Centres, and underlined from this perspective the crucial role that the fight against money laundering should play in strengthening market integrity and therefore financial stability as a whole. In this perspective, they strongly supported the Financial Action Task Force's recommendations and their inclusion among the priority international standards. They also stressed the necessity of systematically involving private creditors in crisis prevention and resolution. They recognized the role of regional economic and monetary cooperation in promoting international stability, as exemplified by EMU.
Leaders encouraged the upcoming Finance Ministers' Meeting to study how European partners could share their experiences with Asian partners in fostering regional economic and monetary cooperation. They also asked Finance Ministers to examine how Asian partners could take into account major changes in the international monetary system resulting from the introduction of the euro.
Leaders expressed strong expectations that the third ASEM Finance Ministers' Meeting in Kobe would make further substantial developments in monetary and financial matters.
13. Leaders reiterated the need for ASEM to promote dialogue and cooperation between the business communities of the two regions and emphasized the central role of the Asia-Europe Business Forum (AEBF), reinforced with the adoption of the AEBF Guidelines in 1999. Leaders welcomed the positive results and the input from the AEBF concerning inter alia , trade facilitation and investment promotion as evidence of deepening business sector engagement in the ASEM process. They invited the AEBF to play a more active role in the activities carried out to implement TFAP and IPAP.
Recognizing that SMEs comprise the core economic activity of all countries and are essential in creating new jobs, Leaders welcomed the results of the Asia-Europe SME Conference and Seminar, and efforts on the part of the AEBF in encouraging Asian and European SMEs to pursue growth and prosperity in tandem and the development of networks among SME organizations to promote and facilitate SME activities between the two regions. They also welcomed the setting up of ASEM Connect to facilitate on-line business matching and access to information as part of ASEM's efforts to address the needs of SMEs.
14. Leaders, emphasizing the importance of Science and Technology (S&T), welcomed the results of the ASEM Science and Technology Ministers' Meeting (STMM) held in Beijing in October 1999. They welcomed the concrete progress since this meeting in measures to enhance S&T cooperation between Asia and Europe. They called for an intensification and further follow-up activities in areas of common interest and priorities identified at the meeting. These range from issues calling for global solutions, such as biodiversity conservation, bio-safety, including food security and sustainable economic and social development, etc. to the upgrading of research capacities of enterprises, the development of e-commerce and information technology, knowledge transfer from research institutes/universities to industry, S&T human resource development and agricultural S&T issues. Cooperation in these areas will be enhanced through the promotion of joint research, the exchange of researchers, seminars, training courses and networks of centres of excellence.
Promoting Cooperation in Other Areas, including Social and Cultural Issues
15. Leaders underscored the importance of enhancing mutual understanding between the two regions through closer people-to-people exchanges of various kinds in the social and cultural areas. Leaders also recognized the vivid and diverse cultures of Asia and Europe as a source of vitality to enliven the mutual cooperation between the two regions and noted that ASEM is an excellent vehicle to achieve this end.
Leaders recognized the crucial importance of education and agreed that a key priority should be to enhance the contacts and exchanges in this field, including student and academic exchanges, interuniversity cooperation and the facilitation of electronic networking between schools in the two regions. In this regard, they undertook to explore the possibility of mutual recognition of degrees, licences, etc., between educational institutions of the two regions. They also recognized the potential for the ASEM Education Hubs (AEH) and the Asia-Europe University (AEU) and other related activities in expanding educational cooperation, promoting greater cross-cultural contacts and fostering mutual understanding between Asia and Europe.
16. Agreeing on the need to ensure that the benefits of globalization are widely shared while reducing its adverse effects, Leaders expressed their commitment to strengthening the dialogue on socio-economic issues among partners. They underlined the importance of social and human resource development, including life-long learning, for the alleviation of economic and social disparities within and among ASEM countries, as well as for the sustained growth of both Asia and Europe and for promoting sustainable development in less developed areas such as the Mekong Subregion. They also confirmed their intention to enhance social safety nets to promote the welfare of the socially vulnerable. Leaders welcomed the outcome of the 24 th Special Session of the United Nations General Assembly on the Implementation of the Outcome of the World Summit for Social Development, held on 26-30 June 2000 in Geneva, to review progress in the implementation of the Copenhagen Declaration of 1995. They expressed their commitment to overcome impediments to social development by adhering to the principles and goals of the Copenhagen+5 and by implementing the further actions and initiatives identified in the special session.
17. Leaders recognized the important role played by ASEF in promoting people-to-people contact, intellectual linkages and cultural exchanges between Asia and Europe since its establishment in February 1997, and reaffirmed their full support for ASEF's role as a key vehicle in increasing mutual understanding between the two regions. Leaders also took this opportunity to thank the outgoing management team of ASEF for their achievements and to welcome the new management team.
Taking Forward the ASEM Process
18. Building on the conclusions of the Bangkok and London Summits, Leaders :
- welcomed the Asia-Europe Vision Group Report submitted to ASEM 3. They expressed their appreciation to the members of the Group for their efforts in producing this Report which sets out a medium to long-term vision for the ASEM process and numerous valuable recommendations for promoting mutual cooperation between Asia and Europe;
- adopted the Asia-Europe Cooperation Framework 2000 (AECF 2000), drawn up on the basis of the AECF approved by the Leaders at ASEM 2 in London, and setting out the vision, principles and objectives, priorities and mechanisms for the ASEM process for the first decade of the 21st century.
19. In addition to the cooperation identified at the Bangkok and London Summits, and with a view to advancing the objectives and priorities set out in the Asia-Europe Cooperation Framework 2000, now adopted, Leaders :
- endorsed the following new ASEM initiatives :
(Globalization/Information Technology)
- Conference on E-commerce and Logistics
- Initiative to Address the Digital Divide
- Roundtable on Globalization
- Seminar on Asia-Europe Cooperation in SMEs
- Seminar on Information and Telecommunications Technology
- Trans-Eurasia Information Network
- WTO Trade Facilitation Conference
(Transnational and Law Enforcement-related Matters)
- Anti-corruption Initiative
- Anti-money Laundering Initiative
- Initiative to Combat Trafficking in Women and Children
- Symposium on Law Enforcement Organs' Cooperation in Combating Transnational Crimes
(Human Resources Development/Environment/Health)
- DUO, Fellowship Programme
- Environment Ministers' Meeting
- Initiative on HIV/AIDS
- Ministerial Conference on Cooperation for the Management of Migratory Flows Europe-Asia
- Science and Technology Cooperation on Forestry Conservation and Sustainable Development
and took note of the following new activities proposed to ASEM and encouraged their further development within the context of the Asia-Europe Cooperation Framework 2000
- Collaborative Research Program on Networking
- Human Resource Development in Information and Communications Technology
- Lifelong Learning
- Overcoming Cultural Nuances: Toward a New Public Management
- Project for a Euro-Asian Network for the Monitoring and Control of Communicable Diseases
- Promoting Business Opportunities in ASEM
- Seminar on Asia-Europe Cooperation on the Applications of Information
- Technology to Human Resources Development in the Mekong Sub-region
20. Looking forward to meeting at ASEM 4 in Copenhagen, Denmark in 2002, Leaders decided to hold the Fifth ASEM in Asia in 2004. They noted that, for the year 2001, Foreign, Economic and Finance Ministers would meet in China, Vietnam and Japan respectively. Leaders instructed Ministers to make a decision on the specific date and venue of their respective meetings for the year 2002 before ASEM 4.
Seoul, 21 October 2000
Source: http://ec.europa.eu/comm/external_relations/asem/asem_summits/asem3_stat.htm