One of the defining trends of the present stage of development of international relations is the increasing importance of maintaining harmony between civilizations in the world. These processes are largely fueled by globalisation, which endangers the cultural and civilisational diversity of the world. The danger of the world divided between civilisations is becoming one of the top challenges of our time.

The dialogue between civilisations has been firmly anchored at the core of ASEM agenda. There have already been 7 meetings on this subject (see below “Related Events”) that significantly contributed to promoting and strengthening mutual understanding, social cohesion and tolerance amid growing social interdependence and religious and cultural diversity of Asia and Europe.