Asem

Communication between Europe and Asia is essential but the dialogue between the two regions has deteriorated since the end of decolonization. In 1996, The Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) was established to resuscitate this long-neglected dialogue. ASEM--a unique interregional forum of 25 countries--is an experiment devoted to promoting Asia-Europe political, security, economic and cultural relations with the strong involvement of both continents' business communities. This book outlines the ASEM dialogue process and the partnership and equality on which it is based.

Loosely grouped around four themes-the political dimension of the ASEM process, the improvement of contact between Europe and Asia, the problem areas, and the future of ASEM-the topics addressed include "In Search of an Effective Role for ASEM: Combating International Corruption" to "Assessing China's Impact on Asia-Europe Relations". Together, these twelve chapters point the way to a new political era between Europe and Asia.

Wim Stokhof is professor of modern Asian studies at the University of Leiden. Paul van der Velde is at the Inter-national Institute for Asian Studies, Leiden.