Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM)
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Introduction | – Established in 1996 to foster dialogue and cooperation between Asia and Europe. – Focuses on political, economic, socio-cultural, and educational issues of common interest. – Promotes mutual respect and equal partnership among members. – Secretariat based in Brussels, Belgium. |
| Objectives | – Strengthen Relations: Enhance multifaceted relations between Asia and Europe. – Promote Dialogue: Facilitate comprehensive discussions on key issues. – Encourage Cooperation: Foster collaboration on global and regional challenges. – Enhance Connectivity: Build stronger ties across political, economic, and cultural dimensions. |
| Members as of 2024 | Total Members: 53 European Members (30): Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Norway, European Union. Asian Members (21): Australia, Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Korea, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, Russian Federation, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam. Organizations (2): European Union and ASEAN Secretariat. |
| Reports/Indices | – Chair’s Statements: Summarize outcomes of ASEM Summits and Ministerial Meetings. – ASEM Outlook Report: Provides analysis on future Asia-Europe relations. – ASEM Sustainable Connectivity Portal: Offers data and analysis on connectivity initiatives. – Annual Review Reports: Document progress and achievements of ASEM initiatives. – Cultural Exchange Reports: Highlight programs fostering cultural and educational ties. |
| Instruments | – ASEM Framework: Foundational document outlining ASEM’s principles and operational structure. – ASEM Declaration on Sustainable Development: Commitment to sustainability. – ASEM Connectivity Blueprint: Guidelines for enhancing economic and cultural connectivity. – Education Collaboration Agreements: Frameworks to promote academic and youth exchanges. |
| Structure | – Summits: Biennial meetings of Heads of State and Government to set priorities. – Ministerial Meetings: Sectoral meetings on foreign affairs, education, and culture. – Senior Officials’ Meetings (SOM): Coordinate activities and prepare for Summits. – ASEM Secretariat: Provides administrative support and coordination. |
| Subsidiary Organs | – ASEM Working Groups: Address issues such as trade, investment, and cultural exchange. – ASEM Pathfinder Group on Connectivity: Focuses on enhancing connectivity projects. – Cultural Exchange Subgroups: Facilitate cross-cultural understanding through arts and education. |
| Committees | – ASEM Coordinators: Representatives from Asia and Europe ensure efficient communication and oversee initiatives. – ASEM Contact Points: Designated officials in each member country facilitate communication. – Cultural Collaboration Committee: Oversees cultural programs and events. |
| Initiatives | – ASEM Education Process: Promotes higher education collaboration and academic mobility. – ASEM Cultural Festival: Showcases the cultural diversity of member states. – ASEM Sustainable Development Dialogue: Discusses sustainability goals and global practices. – ASEM Connectivity Initiatives: Focus on digital and physical connectivity between regions. – Youth and Academic Exchanges: Foster connections among students and researchers in member countries. – Trade and Investment Facilitation: Enhance economic cooperation through policy dialogues. |
