The conference is an initiative of Vietnam that was approved during the 12th ASEM Summit in Brussels in October 2018.

It will be co-organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs; the Ministry of Planning and Investment; and the People’s Committee of Khanh Hoa.

At a press conference on May 15, Le Thi Hong Van, Vice Director of the Department of Multilateral Economic Cooperation under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said that sustainable, inclusive and creative development is now prioritized by countries as global challenges are becoming more serious. It is also important in relation to the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which has opened up growth opportunities, but also widened the gap in development, income and employment.

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Delegates of ASEM conference 2018 in a joint photo 

Van said that the conference shows the pioneering role of the ASEM, as well as its contributions to international efforts in realizing commitments on promoting socio-economic sustainable and inclusive growth, thus effectively implementing the UN Agenda 2030.

Through the event, Vietnam hopes to join global attempts and ASEM cooperation, while creating a chance to foster the country’s bilateral partnership with ASEM member countries, she added.

Participants will share experience and discuss a wide range of issues, including the reality of global growth in the 21st century, Asia and Europe’s experience in inclusive development, the role and engagement of relevant parties in promoting inclusive socio-economic development, and the strengthening of Asia-Europe cooperation in inclusive socio-economic growth.

Source: VNA