(VOVworld)- On Wednesday in Hanoi, Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted a meeting on strengthening the Asia-Europe comprehensive partnership in the 21^st century. This is part of a series of events to mark the 20^th anniversary of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) and prepare for the 11^th ASEM summit to be held in Mongolia in July.

Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh

Speaking at the meeting, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh said that over the past 20 years ASEM has become an important mechanism of dialogue and cooperation to accelerate moves toward multi-layered cooperation and links for peace and development. ASEM is bringing  benefits to member countries in maintaining peace, security, and order, reviving economies and addressing global challenges. Deputy Prime Minister Pham Binh Minh said: “ASEM is in need of reform and higher level of cooperation to underline its indispensable role in the current multi-polar structure. This is an objective requirement amidst continuous uncertainties in the region and the world and a must for an extending grouping that includes more diverse interests and benefits. It is high time for us to reach consensus and be strong in our actions to upgrade the Asia-Europe cooperation level and realize the goal of an ASEM community, which better live up to the expectations of the people and match development demands”.

Deputy PM Minh urged ASEM to adopt new ways thinking and a comprehensive approach to narrow the developmental gap between member countries, particularly developing members. He stressed that all cooperative initiatives and mechanisms should center on people, promoting their participation and prioritizing the contributions made by young people and business, including small and medium-sized enterprises.