Latvia has set attraction of transit cargoes from the region of Asia as one of its priorities, thus the President of Latvia intends to discuss issues of transport and logistics both during the Summit and potential bilateral meetings. The President of Latvia will present Latvia’s experience and potential as a transit country to the heads of state and heads of government, connecting the European and American cargo flows to Russia, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia.
ASEM Summit will mark the 20th anniversary by bringing 51 Head of State and Head of Government from Europe and Asia, as well as the EU top officials – President of European Council Donald Tusk and President of European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker.
The Summit titled “ASEM 20 Years: a Partnership for the Future by Developing Connectivity” plans to evaluate progress in the political, economic, social, cultural, and human communication issues for the last 20 years. One intends to discuss aspects, working methods, future prospects of connectivity, and debate on climate change, sustainable development, multilateral trading system, disaster prevention and management, energy security, food safety, and other issues.
ASEM was established in 1996 as Europe-Asia dialogue and cooperation forum. Every two years, ASEM Heads of State and Heads of Government meet for a summit to identify priorities for ASEM. These summits are held alternately in Asia and Europe.