“Civil society organisations can make a unique contribution to the political, socio-economic and cultural development of Asia and Europe.” – Bertrand Fort, conference co-ordinator.
OVERVIEW
This two-day meeting brought together 200 high-level representatives from prominent civil society groups in Asia and Europe to discuss issues of mutual concern, including:
– Human rights and governance
– Environment and urbanisation
– Labour and social issues
– International relations and security issues
– Trade and development co-operation
– Migration
– Interfaith dialogue
Working groups were also organised for participants to discuss concrete plans for partnership within their sector. The ASEF then conveyed the outcomes of this consultation to the ASEM governments, who were making preparations for the 5th ASEM Summit in Hanoi, Vietnam in October 2004.
