AsemconnectVietnam - 16-17 October 2014 Milan, Italy

The Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) was created in 1996 as a forum for dialogue and cooperation between Europe and Asia.

Every two years, ASEM Heads of State and Government meet at a summit to set ASEM's priorities. These Summits are held alternatively in Asia and Europe.

The next, 10th ASEM Summit, which will be chaired by the President of the European Council and hosted by the Government of Italy, will be held in the Italian city of Milan on 16-17 October 2014.

The theme of the 10th ASEM Summit - "Responsible Partnership for Growth and Security" - reflects the enlarging scope of the EU-Asia relationship. The meeting will provide a key opportunity to convey a strong message of commitment to Asia.

1. Responsible – both Europe and Asia should act responsibly, abiding by their joint commitment to environmental protection, social dialogue, eradicating poverty, promotion and protection of human rights, etc.

2. Partnership – ASEM is increasingly moving towards a broader-based partnership to address jointly global and regional challenges.

3. Sustainable Growth – We have an interest to strengthen our economies and to pursue structural reforms both in Europe and Asia to underpin economic. We are committed to strengthening mutual trade and investment.

4. Security – There is no growth/development without security in the broader sense – maritime security, non-traditional security, social security, food security, nuclear security, etc. The EU will emphasise its ambition to be seen as a constructive and reliable player in the evolving regional security architecture.

Indicative Programme:

Media Accreditation:

Journalists who wish to cover the Summit may accredit themselves at the Italian EU Presidency website: http://bit.ly/ASEM10Media

 Summit Website:

Further information may be found on the ASEM10 website: http://bit.ly/ASEM10

Source: Aseminfoboard.org