ASEM Summit (Asia-Europe forum) in Beijing
7ème Sommet Asie - Europe (ASEM)
© commission européenne 2008
- from: 24.10.2008
- to: 25.10.2008
- In: Pékin (Chine)
The Heads of State and Government representing the European Union and Asia met in Beijing for the 7th ASEM Summit on 24 and 25 October. Their discussions focused on the means to tackle the international financial crisis.
They also addressed the major global challenges facing citizens in both regions: peace and international stability, sustainable development, human rights, climate change, energy and food security, trade issues and the fight against terrorism.
This ASEM Summit was the biggest ever in terms of participation: six new members - India, Pakistan, Mongolia, Romania, Bulgaria and the ASEAN secretariat - took part for the first time. This brings the total number of ASEM members to 45, that is, 43 countries, the European Commission and the ASEAN secretariat. The meeting in Beijing brought together almost all of Asia and Europe and account for half of global GDP, nearly 60% of the world's population and 60% of global trade.
China chaired the Summit, while France as holder of the Presidency headed the European Union delegation. Civil Society, parliamentarians and business leaders attended related meetings on the sidelines of the Summit. The Asia-Europe People's Forum (AEPF) took place in the Chinese capital on 13 and 14 October, while the Asia-Europe Business Forum (AEBF) was held from the 21 to the 23 October. The Asia-Europe Parliamentary Partnership (ASEP) held its last meeting on 18 June.
- Updated: 23.12.2008
