News

On 24-25 October in Beijing Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania Petras Vaitiekūnas took part in the seventh Summit of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM), where he together with the leaders of ASEM discussed the global financial crisis, climate change and possibilities to intensify the dialogue of civilizations. “Today, when financial crisis is ravaging the global economy, we should think about the ways to maintain steady economic relations between Europe and Asia. It only proves once again, that economic cooperation among ASEM countries is especially important and should be strengthened”, - stressed minister during the meeting.

Minister informed the participants of the Summit about the progress of preparations for the ASEM Transport Ministers’ Meeting that will be held next year in Lithuania.

“Transport challenges require a new geographical approach to the ASEM. In order to achieve practical results, we should think about possible new partnerships with neighbours of ASEM in such specific areas like transport”, noted P.Vaitiekūnas.

At the meeting the declaration on the sustainable development and the ASEM leaders’ declaration on the international financial situation were signed. Heads of state and government from 27 European and 16 Asian states, the Secretary-General of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Surin Pitsuwan, European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso took part in the meeting.

ASEM Summits are organized every two years.

During the event Lithuanian Minister P.Vaitiekūnas talked with President of China Hu Jintao and Prime Minister Wen Jiabao.