13th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) Summit

The Asia–Europe Meeting (ASEM) is a unique cooperation initiative, bringing in scope for transnational cooperation between Partner countries, through regional and sub-regional activities. ASEM is wide enough to accommodate global and inter-continental development priorities. And yet, it localises connectivity amongst Partner countries for economic growth, trade and investment, digital economy, inclusive growth, and sustainable development. As the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic holds sway in both Europe and Asia, the hosting of the 13th ASEM Summit (ASEM13) in Cambodia assumes much greater significance as it envisages an inclusive and prosperous growth pathway for the Asia–Europe region, through multilateral cooperation and sustainable development. The study brings together scholars and practitioners from Asia and Europe who have put forth their academic and practical wisdom in their respective chapters, covering the multidimensional nature of Asia–Europe cooperation and connectivity. Partnership for economic growth, trade and investment, digital economy, quality infrastructure, skills development, education, women and youth, labour mobility, sustainable development, multilateralism, and global governance are some of the important themes covered in this study. The study captures the rich experiences amongst Partner countries that are productive and replicable. It summarises the unique role and vision of Cambodia as the host of the ASEM13, and the need to carry these into the 14th ASEM Summit in Europe. This book fulfils this purpose, and establishes a pathway for making ASEM an active, efficient, and influential multilateral platform for cooperation and connectivity between Asia and Europe.