Special report: Premier Wen visits Asia, Europe

Leaders pose for a group photo at the start of the ASEM summit in Helsinki September 10, 2006.(Xinhua Photo) Photo Gallery >>>

    HELSINKI, Sept. 10 (Xinhua) -- Heads of state and government from 38 Asian and European countries started here on Sunday a biennial summit of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) to discuss ways to boost trade ties, the revival of the Doha round of global trade talks and global challenges such as terrorism, energy security and climate change.

    "In 10 years, ASEM has become a central forum for cooperation and dialogue between Asian and European countries," said Finnish President Tarja Halonen in her opening speech.

    "The (Asia-Europe) partnership has resulted in broader political dialogue, stronger economic relations, as well as deeper cooperation in the field of social affairs and cultural exchanges."

    She emphasized the importance of multilateralism, which, she said, is the key instrument for creating a democratic, legitimate and coherent framework for globalization.

    She said multilateralism becomes more important today as one country's actions and policy decisions have often also cross-border impacts. In this respect, she called for support for the work and role of the United Nations.

    She took a cautious approach to the issue of globalization.

    "Globalization offers great opportunities -- and issues such as economic liberalization, wider market access and sound macroeconomic policies are certainly important aims for all of us. However, today the benefits of globalization are not evenly spread."

    There is a need, therefore, to focus on the social dimension of globalization and on poverty reduction, she said. "ASEM can effectively contribute to reforming globalization fairer."

    ASEM groups all the 25 member states of the European Union and 13 Asian countries -- China, South Korea and Japan plus the 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

    This year's ASEM marks the 10th anniversary of the forum. The next summit will be held in Beijing. Enditem