The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement in celebration of ASEM Day on 1 March 2017, noting how the ASEM Process has strengthened over the years.

“Over the years, the opportunities for exchange and encounter, as well as initiatives to deepen cooperation on specific issues of common interest, including sustainable development, the environment and other issues related to non-traditional security has increased”, it said.

“Starting from the 10th Summit of Milan, ASEM has also initiated a debate on the issues of ‘connectivity’ between Asia and Europe, serving as a forum for joint reflection on an increasingly important topic for the future of two regions”.

View the full statement here.