EIAS Events
Forthcoming Events
Thursday 9 February 2012
10:30-12:30
at The European Institute for Asian Studies
The European Institute for Asian Studies has the pleasure of inviting you to the EIAS Briefing Seminar on "Energy security in East Asia: Renewables in the energy mix of the future", which is taking place on Thursday 9 February 2012, from 10:30 to 12:30, at the European Institute for Asian Studies, Rue de la Loi 67, B-1040 Brussels.
To register for this event, please confirm your participation to stijn.lambrecht@eias.org by Wednesday 8 February, indicating your name, position, organisation and contact details.
Energy security in East Asia: How can renewable energy contribute to the energy mix of the future?
Since the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, the debate about energy in Japan and the region has intensified. After the nuclear incident in Fukushima, former Prime Minister Naoto Kan envisaged that renewable energy should not only replace fossil fuels, but also nuclear energy. While Kan took a firm position on expanding renewable energy, his successor Yoshihiko Noda is less vocal on the subject. Still, the move towards renewable energy is now high on the agenda since the feed-in-tariff law was passed in August 2011, which aims to stimulate the expansion of renewable energy capacity.
China is also moving fast towards promoting its renewables as it seeks to reduce reliance on polluting fossil fuels and tries to establish itself as a leading clean power manufacturer and exporter. In 2008, South Korea launched its “Low Carbon, Green Growth” vision in which it actively seeks ways to move towards environmental friendly solutions. However, nuclear energy stays as an important component to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in South Korea, as well as in China.
Renewables can become an important element in contributing to the energy security of Asia. Both the EU and Asia can learn from each other's experiences in promoting renewable energy. This briefing seminar will highlight important aspects of the transition to renewable energy sources, as well as the viability of those practices.
10:30-12:30
at The European Institute for Asian Studies
The European Institute for Asian Studies has the pleasure of inviting you to the EIAS Briefing Seminar on "Energy security in East Asia: Renewables in the energy mix of the future", which is taking place on Thursday 9 February 2012, from 10:30 to 12:30, at the European Institute for Asian Studies, Rue de la Loi 67, B-1040 Brussels.
To register for this event, please confirm your participation to stijn.lambrecht@eias.org by Wednesday 8 February, indicating your name, position, organisation and contact details.
| Programme | |
| 10:00-10:30 | Registration |
| 10:30-10:40 | Introduction by the Chair |
| Mr. David Fouquet, Senior Associate of the European Institute for Asian Studies | |
| 10:40-12:00 | Presentations by |
| Mrs. Satu Hassi, Member of the European Parliament Mr. Xiangfeng Li, First Secretary, Mission of China to the EU Ms. Olga Sihmane, DG Energy, European Commission Representative of the Renewable Energy sector (name TBC) | |
| 12:00-12:30 | Discussion, Questions and Answers |
Energy security in East Asia: How can renewable energy contribute to the energy mix of the future?
Since the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, the debate about energy in Japan and the region has intensified. After the nuclear incident in Fukushima, former Prime Minister Naoto Kan envisaged that renewable energy should not only replace fossil fuels, but also nuclear energy. While Kan took a firm position on expanding renewable energy, his successor Yoshihiko Noda is less vocal on the subject. Still, the move towards renewable energy is now high on the agenda since the feed-in-tariff law was passed in August 2011, which aims to stimulate the expansion of renewable energy capacity.
China is also moving fast towards promoting its renewables as it seeks to reduce reliance on polluting fossil fuels and tries to establish itself as a leading clean power manufacturer and exporter. In 2008, South Korea launched its “Low Carbon, Green Growth” vision in which it actively seeks ways to move towards environmental friendly solutions. However, nuclear energy stays as an important component to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in South Korea, as well as in China.
Renewables can become an important element in contributing to the energy security of Asia. Both the EU and Asia can learn from each other's experiences in promoting renewable energy. This briefing seminar will highlight important aspects of the transition to renewable energy sources, as well as the viability of those practices.
Wednesday 8 February 2012
16:00-18:00
in the European Parliament, Brussels (Altiero Spinelli Building Room 3H1)
Lidia Geringer de Oedenberg MEP, in cooperation with the European Institute for Asian Studies (EIAS) and the Women's Economic and Social Think Tank (WESTT), has the pleasure of inviting you to the EIAS Briefing Seminar on "Afghanistan and Pakistan: How Women can make the difference?", which is taking place on Wednesday 8 February 2012, from 16:00 to 18:00, in the European Parliament (Altiero Spinelli Building Room 3H1, Entrance Place du Luxembourg, B-1047 Brussels).
How Can Women make a difference in State building in Afghanistan and in Pakistan?
Jawaharlal Nehru, Former Prime Minister of India, once said “You can tell the condition of a nation by looking at the status of its women”. Women in South Asia are active in politics, environmental protection, the fight against corruption and most importantly in the implementation of development policies. For instance, Pakistan’s youngest and current foreign minister is a woman, Mrs Hina Rabbani Khar. Uncovering the role women have been playing in the consolidation of state infrastructure and in the social stability of both Afghanistan and Pakistan, this Briefing Seminar will focus on the future of both countries and the role of their women.
By 2014, Afghanistan will have transitioned to a fully sovereign state, thus the contribution of women is particularly important at this stage in the sector of children’s education, food production and in the prevention of conflict. However, it seems women continue to struggle to be heard in the public space, mostly restrained by their social status within the family. Moreover, women in South Asia continue to suffer from domestic violence, malnutrition, rape and illiteracy. Such conditions have reduced significantly their ability to influence the decision making process at local and national level.
16:00-18:00
in the European Parliament, Brussels (Altiero Spinelli Building Room 3H1)
Lidia Geringer de Oedenberg MEP, in cooperation with the European Institute for Asian Studies (EIAS) and the Women's Economic and Social Think Tank (WESTT), has the pleasure of inviting you to the EIAS Briefing Seminar on "Afghanistan and Pakistan: How Women can make the difference?", which is taking place on Wednesday 8 February 2012, from 16:00 to 18:00, in the European Parliament (Altiero Spinelli Building Room 3H1, Entrance Place du Luxembourg, B-1047 Brussels).
| Programme | |
| 15:30-16:00 | Registration (Entrance Place du Luxembourg) |
| 16:00-16:15 | Welcoming Remarks |
| Mrs. Lidia Ioanna Geringer de Oedenberg, MEP and Member of the European Parliament Delegation for Relations with South Asia Introduction by the Chair Ms. Madi Sharma, Member of the European Economic and Social Committee and Founder of the Women’s Economic and Social Think Tank (WESTT) | |
| 16:15-17:15 | Presentations by |
| H.E. Mr. Homayoun Tandar, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to the European Union and Belgium Mrs. Fozia Manzoor, First Secretary of the Embassy of Pakistan to the EU, Belgium and Luxembourg Mrs. Jessica Zimmerman, Coordinator, Parliamentarians Network for Conflict Prevention at EastWest Institute Mrs. Jean Lambert, Member of the European Parliament, Chair of the Delegation for relations with South Asian countries Mr. Thijs Berman, Member of the European Parliament and Chair of the delegation for relations with Afghanistan | |
| 17:15-18:00 | Discussion, Questions and Answers |
How Can Women make a difference in State building in Afghanistan and in Pakistan?
Jawaharlal Nehru, Former Prime Minister of India, once said “You can tell the condition of a nation by looking at the status of its women”. Women in South Asia are active in politics, environmental protection, the fight against corruption and most importantly in the implementation of development policies. For instance, Pakistan’s youngest and current foreign minister is a woman, Mrs Hina Rabbani Khar. Uncovering the role women have been playing in the consolidation of state infrastructure and in the social stability of both Afghanistan and Pakistan, this Briefing Seminar will focus on the future of both countries and the role of their women.
By 2014, Afghanistan will have transitioned to a fully sovereign state, thus the contribution of women is particularly important at this stage in the sector of children’s education, food production and in the prevention of conflict. However, it seems women continue to struggle to be heard in the public space, mostly restrained by their social status within the family. Moreover, women in South Asia continue to suffer from domestic violence, malnutrition, rape and illiteracy. Such conditions have reduced significantly their ability to influence the decision making process at local and national level.
Recent Events
Tuesday 31 January 2012
14:30-15:30
at The European Institute for Asian Studies
The European Institute for Asian Studies has the pleasure of inviting you to the EIAS Briefing Seminar on "The Future of EU-Japan Relations: The ICT Dimension", which is taking place on Tuesday 31 January 2012, from 14:30 to 15:30, at the European Institute for Asian Studies, Rue de la Loi 67, B-1040 Brussels.
To register for this event, please confirm your participation to r.warnault@eias.org by Monday 30 January, indicating your name, position, organisation and contact details.
What role for the ICT in EU-Japan trade relations in the coming years?
The future of EU-Japan relations will be shaped in the coming months up to July's EU-Japan Summit, as the European Commission and their counterparts from Tokyo undertake 'scoping exercises' to look at the levels of ambition on both sides as to future economic and political relations and whether it is opportune to open negotiations for an Economic Integration Agreement with Japan. A key industrial sector in this process will be Information and Communications Technology (ICT), with Europe accounting for 30% of world demand and Japan 10% of world production.
In this context, the European Institute for Asian Studies is organising a Briefing Seminar to examine the opinion of the Japanese industry and EU experts on the future of EU-Japan relations, with particular focus on the ICT industry, taking advantage of the visit to Brussels by Mr Kaoru Yano, the chairman of the JEITA.
14:30-15:30
at The European Institute for Asian Studies
The European Institute for Asian Studies has the pleasure of inviting you to the EIAS Briefing Seminar on "The Future of EU-Japan Relations: The ICT Dimension", which is taking place on Tuesday 31 January 2012, from 14:30 to 15:30, at the European Institute for Asian Studies, Rue de la Loi 67, B-1040 Brussels.
To register for this event, please confirm your participation to r.warnault@eias.org by Monday 30 January, indicating your name, position, organisation and contact details.
| Programme | |
| 14:00-14:30 | Registration |
| 14:30-14:40 | Introduction by the Chair: |
| Mr. Glyn Ford, Board Member of the European Institute for Asian Studies and Director of Polint | |
| 14:40-15:10 | Presentations by |
| Mr. Kaoru Yano, Chairman of the Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association (JEITA) Mrs. Alison Birkett, International Relations Officer, Directorate-General for Information Society and Media of the European Commission Mr. Peter Skinner, Member of the European Parliament, Substitute Member of the Industry, Research and Energy Committee and a Substitute Member of the Delegation for Relations with Japan | |
| 15:10-15:30 | Discussion, Questions and Answers |
What role for the ICT in EU-Japan trade relations in the coming years?
The future of EU-Japan relations will be shaped in the coming months up to July's EU-Japan Summit, as the European Commission and their counterparts from Tokyo undertake 'scoping exercises' to look at the levels of ambition on both sides as to future economic and political relations and whether it is opportune to open negotiations for an Economic Integration Agreement with Japan. A key industrial sector in this process will be Information and Communications Technology (ICT), with Europe accounting for 30% of world demand and Japan 10% of world production.
In this context, the European Institute for Asian Studies is organising a Briefing Seminar to examine the opinion of the Japanese industry and EU experts on the future of EU-Japan relations, with particular focus on the ICT industry, taking advantage of the visit to Brussels by Mr Kaoru Yano, the chairman of the JEITA.
Wednesday 25 January 2012
15:00-17:00
at The European Institute for Asian Studies
The European Institute for Asian Studies, with the support of the British Council, has the pleasure of inviting you to the EIAS Briefing Seminar on "Youth and Education in Pakistan - Is the EU Doing Enough for the Next Generation?", which is taking place on Wednesday 25 January 2012, from 15:00 to 17:00, at the European Institute for Asian Studies.
To register for this event, please confirm your participation to alicia.belda@eias.org by Tuesday 24 January, indicating your name, position, organisation and contact details.
Is the EU Doing Enough for Pakistan's Next Generation?
Pakistan's political future is at a crossroads. Young people are in need of greater encouragement to continue believing in democracy, while setting out their path for development and the future of their country. The European Institute for Asian Studies, with the support of the British Council, is organising this Briefing Seminar, with the objective of examining the contribution of the EU to the promotion of cultural and educational developments in Pakistan, as well as potential future exchanges, cooperation and dialogues between the two partners.
Today's youth is the future, shaping the leaders of tomorrow, eminently holding the power to determine Pakistan's future. Young Pakistanis are increasingly well-educated, with an increasing number of people holding foreign degrees and a rising proficiency in English.
In 2009, the British Council released the report "Pakistan: The Next Generation", which highlights the role of young people in the Pakistani society and the challenges they will be facing in the next decades. The report received a great deal of attention in Pakistan and in the UK, as well as in other parts of the world. The study reveals the underlying contradictions among youngsters in Pakistan, demographic challenges and recent views of Young Pakistanis towards the Western world and its hegemony.
15:00-17:00
at The European Institute for Asian Studies
The European Institute for Asian Studies, with the support of the British Council, has the pleasure of inviting you to the EIAS Briefing Seminar on "Youth and Education in Pakistan - Is the EU Doing Enough for the Next Generation?", which is taking place on Wednesday 25 January 2012, from 15:00 to 17:00, at the European Institute for Asian Studies.
To register for this event, please confirm your participation to alicia.belda@eias.org by Tuesday 24 January, indicating your name, position, organisation and contact details.
| Programme | |
| 14:30-15:00 | Registration |
| 15:00-15:15 | Introduction by the Chair: |
| Mr. Dick Gupwell, Vice Chairman of the European Institute for Asian Studies | |
| 15:15-16:15 | Presentations by |
| Mr. Moazzam Shah, Political Counsellor of the Embassy of Pakistan to the EU, Belgium and Luxembourg Mr. David Martin, Director, British Council Pakistan Mr. Sajjad Karim, MEP and President of European Parliament Pakistan Friendship Group Mr. Markus Handke, Desk Officer for Pakistan, EuropeAid, DEVCO | |
| 16:15-17:00 | Discussion, Questions and Answers |
Is the EU Doing Enough for Pakistan's Next Generation?
Pakistan's political future is at a crossroads. Young people are in need of greater encouragement to continue believing in democracy, while setting out their path for development and the future of their country. The European Institute for Asian Studies, with the support of the British Council, is organising this Briefing Seminar, with the objective of examining the contribution of the EU to the promotion of cultural and educational developments in Pakistan, as well as potential future exchanges, cooperation and dialogues between the two partners.
Today's youth is the future, shaping the leaders of tomorrow, eminently holding the power to determine Pakistan's future. Young Pakistanis are increasingly well-educated, with an increasing number of people holding foreign degrees and a rising proficiency in English.
In 2009, the British Council released the report "Pakistan: The Next Generation", which highlights the role of young people in the Pakistani society and the challenges they will be facing in the next decades. The report received a great deal of attention in Pakistan and in the UK, as well as in other parts of the world. The study reveals the underlying contradictions among youngsters in Pakistan, demographic challenges and recent views of Young Pakistanis towards the Western world and its hegemony.
Monday 23 January 2012
14:30-16:30
at The European Institute for Asian Studies
The European Institute for Asian Studies, in cooperation with the Women's Economic and Social Think Tank (WESTT), has the pleasure of inviting you to the EIAS Briefing Seminar on "Women and Climate Change in South Asia", which is taking place on Monday 23 January 2012, from 14:30 to 16:30, at the European Institute for Asian Studies.
What are the implications of Climate Change for Women in South Asia?
Climate Change affects more people every day. South Asia is particularly affected by floods, droughts and heavy rains considering its geographical setting. Moreover, agriculture is one of the main sources of revenue for the majority of Bangladeshis and Pakistani and most of Indians households. Indeed, agriculture represents the biggest sector of South Asian economies with 65% of the population working in rural areas. Thus, irrigation water has become a rare and disputed resource in South Asia. Declining water availability will put a strain on agricultural and livestock production which are already hindered by land degradation and high food prices.
While women are usually the first to suffer from the consequences of Climate Change in South Asia, their status in societies limits their access to adequate resources, health services, medicines and prevention information in terms of necessities and other areas such as Climate change. The potential of women has yet to be discovered in the search of finding long-term solutions to the effects of Climate Change.
Often discriminated against, women have given the chance to demonstrate their full ability to prevent environmental degradation and to reduce risks linked with contaminated water. How can governments be convinced that gender-specific priorities should be included in short and long-term decision making in adaptation to climate change in South Asian countries?
press release (pdf)
further reading (pdf)
14:30-16:30
at The European Institute for Asian Studies
The European Institute for Asian Studies, in cooperation with the Women's Economic and Social Think Tank (WESTT), has the pleasure of inviting you to the EIAS Briefing Seminar on "Women and Climate Change in South Asia", which is taking place on Monday 23 January 2012, from 14:30 to 16:30, at the European Institute for Asian Studies.
| Programme | |
| 14:00-14:30 | Registration |
| 14:30-15:45 | Presentations by |
| Ms. Madi Sharma, Women's Economic and Social Think Tank (WESTT) H.E Ambassador Mr. Ali Hussain Didi, Embassy of the Maldives to Belgium and Mission to the European Union Mr. Kazi Ehsanul Haque, First Secretary of the Embassy of Bangladesh to Belgium, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and the European Union | |
| 15:45-16:30 | Discussion, Questions and Answers |
What are the implications of Climate Change for Women in South Asia?
Climate Change affects more people every day. South Asia is particularly affected by floods, droughts and heavy rains considering its geographical setting. Moreover, agriculture is one of the main sources of revenue for the majority of Bangladeshis and Pakistani and most of Indians households. Indeed, agriculture represents the biggest sector of South Asian economies with 65% of the population working in rural areas. Thus, irrigation water has become a rare and disputed resource in South Asia. Declining water availability will put a strain on agricultural and livestock production which are already hindered by land degradation and high food prices.
While women are usually the first to suffer from the consequences of Climate Change in South Asia, their status in societies limits their access to adequate resources, health services, medicines and prevention information in terms of necessities and other areas such as Climate change. The potential of women has yet to be discovered in the search of finding long-term solutions to the effects of Climate Change.
Often discriminated against, women have given the chance to demonstrate their full ability to prevent environmental degradation and to reduce risks linked with contaminated water. How can governments be convinced that gender-specific priorities should be included in short and long-term decision making in adaptation to climate change in South Asian countries?
press release (pdf)
further reading (pdf)
Wednesday 14 December 2011
17:30-18:30
At EIAS
The European Institute for Asian Studies (EIAS) have the pleasure of inviting you to the Special Briefing on "North and South Korea: Sunshine Returns?", which is taking place on Wednesday 14 December 2011, from 17:30 to 18:30, at the European Institute for Asian Studies.
To register for this event, please confirm your participation by sending an e-mail to stijn.lambrecht@eias.org, indicating your name, organisation, position and contact details.
Download the Invitation
17:30-18:30
At EIAS
The European Institute for Asian Studies (EIAS) have the pleasure of inviting you to the Special Briefing on "North and South Korea: Sunshine Returns?", which is taking place on Wednesday 14 December 2011, from 17:30 to 18:30, at the European Institute for Asian Studies.
To register for this event, please confirm your participation by sending an e-mail to stijn.lambrecht@eias.org, indicating your name, organisation, position and contact details.
| Programme | |
| 17:15-17:30 | Registration |
| 17:30-17:35 | Welcoming Remarks by |
| Mr. Glyn Ford, Board Member of the European Institute for Asian Studies | |
| 17:35-17:55 | Presentation by |
| Dr. Aidan Foster-Carter, Honorary Senior Research Fellow in Sociology & Modern Korea, Leeds University, UK | |
| 17:55-18:30 | Discussion |
Download the Invitation
19-20 December 2011
19.12.2011: 15:00-18:00 At the European Parliament, Brussels
20.12.2011: 9:30-17:30 At the European Institute for Asian Studies (EIAS), Brussels
The Institute of International Relations (IIR), National Chengchi University, in cooperation with the European Institute for Asian Studies (EIAS), have the pleasure of inviting you to the 28th Taiwan-European Conference on "EU’s Development and Contemporary Greater China: Opportunities and Challenges", which is taking place on Monday 19 December 2011, from 15:00 to 18:00, in the European Parliament, and Tuesday 20 December 2011, from 9:30 to 17:30, at the European Institute for Asian Studies.
To register for this event, please confirm your participation by sending an e-mail to alicia.belda@eias.org by Wednesday, 14 December 2011. Please indicate the sessions you wish to attend. In case you require an entry pass to the European Parliament for the session on 19 December 2011, please be so kind as to provide your name, address, ID number and date of birth upon registration.
Download the Invitation
19.12.2011: 15:00-18:00 At the European Parliament, Brussels
20.12.2011: 9:30-17:30 At the European Institute for Asian Studies (EIAS), Brussels
The Institute of International Relations (IIR), National Chengchi University, in cooperation with the European Institute for Asian Studies (EIAS), have the pleasure of inviting you to the 28th Taiwan-European Conference on "EU’s Development and Contemporary Greater China: Opportunities and Challenges", which is taking place on Monday 19 December 2011, from 15:00 to 18:00, in the European Parliament, and Tuesday 20 December 2011, from 9:30 to 17:30, at the European Institute for Asian Studies.
To register for this event, please confirm your participation by sending an e-mail to alicia.belda@eias.org by Wednesday, 14 December 2011. Please indicate the sessions you wish to attend. In case you require an entry pass to the European Parliament for the session on 19 December 2011, please be so kind as to provide your name, address, ID number and date of birth upon registration.
| Monday, 19 December 2011 (Room ASP 5G2 in the European Parliament. Entrance Place du Luxembourg) | |
| Registration | |
| 15:00-15:45 | Inaugural session |
| Welcome Address H.E. Mr. David Lin, Representative of Taipei Permanent Representative Office in the European Union and the Kingdom of Belgium Mr. Dick Gupwell, Vice-Chairman of the European Institute for Asian Studies Keynote speech Taiwanese Identity in a Regional and International Context Prof. Shaocheng Tang, Institute of International Relations (IIR), Taiwan | |
| 15:45-16:00 | Tea and Coffee |
| 16:00-18:00 | Panel I: Europe and the Dynamics of Change in Asia |
| Chair: Mr. Dick Gupwell, Vice-Chairman of the European Institute for Asian Studies H.E. Marc Trenteseau, Director General, Egmont - The Royal Institute for International relations, Brussels Prof. Alexander Huang, Institute of International Relations (IIR), Taiwan A Representative of the European External Action Service (TBC) Prof. Lutgard Lams, Associate Professor in Media and Cultural Studies, Department of Languages and Literature, University-College Brussels (HUB) Dr. Brian Mc.Donald, Former Ambassador of the European Union | |
Tuesday, 20 December 2011 (At the European Institute for Asian Studies (EIAS) , Rue de la Loi 67, Brussels) | |
| 9:00-9:30 | Registration |
| 9:30-11:00 | Panel II: Current Developements in Taiwan and China and Their Implications for the EU |
| Chair: Mr. Georges Legros, Senior Associate of the European Institute for Asian Studies Prof. Chen-Shen Yen, Institute of International Relations (IIR), Taiwan Prof. Em. Sylvain Plasschaert, Economy, Antwerp University, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Board Member of the European Institute for Asian Studies Dr. Pierre Defraigne, Executive Director Madariaga, College of Europe Foundation, Bruegel Mr. Francesco Meggiolaro, Desk officer for Taiwan, EEAS Mr. Xavier Nuttin, Senior Asia Analyst, European Parliament | |
| 11:00-11:15 | Tea & Coffee |
| 11:15-12:45 | Panel III: Cross-Strait Relations: Recent Developments and Prospects |
| Chair: Mr. David Fouquet, Senior Associate of the European Institute for Asian Studies Prof. Wei Tsai, Institute of International Relations (IIR), Taiwan Prof. John K. Chao, Institute of International Relations (IIR), Taiwan Prof. Elena Atanassova-Cornelis, Lecturer in East-Asian International Relations at the University of Antwerp, Louvain and Lille Mrs. Theresa Fallon, Senior Associate of the European Institute for Asian Studies | |
| 12:45-14:00 | Lunch |
| 14:00-15:30 | Panel IV: Taiwan’s Role in the Regional and International Context |
| Chair: Prof. Tai-Lin Chang, Professor National Chengchi University, Taipei, Taiwan Prof. Shaocheng Tang, Institute of International Relations (IIR), Taiwan; H.E. Marc Trenteseau, Director General, Egmont - The Royal Institute for International relations, Brussels Mr. Olivier Védrine, Prof. IESEG School of Management, Université Catholique de Lille | |
| 15:30-15:45 | Tea and Coffee |
| 15:45-17:15 | Panel V: The Future of EU-Taiwan Relations |
| Chair: Mr. Eddy Laurijssen, Board Member of the European Institute for Asian Studies Introduction by: Mr. John Hesketh Richards, Desk Officer for Trade Relations with the Far East, DG Trade Mr. Xavier Nuttin, Senior Asia Analyst, European Parliament Dr. Wan-Li Wang, Deputy Representative of Taipei Representative Office in the European Union and Belgium Mr. Xavier Nuttin, Senior Asia Analyst, European Parliament Prof. Shaocheng Tang, Institute of International Relations (IIR), Taiwan Prof. Alexander Huang, Institute of International Relations (IIR), Taiwan, Prof. Chen-Shen Yen, Institute of International Relations (IIR), Taiwan Prof. Wei Tsai, Institute of International Relations (IIR), Taiwan Prof. John K. Chao, Institute of International Relations (IIR), Taiwan | |
| 17:15-17:30 | Closing Remarks |
| H.E. Mr. David Lin, Representative of Taipei Representative Office in the European Union and Belgium Prof. Shaocheng Tang, Institute of International Relations (IIR), Taiwan Mr. Dick Gupwell, Vice-Chairman of the European Institute for Asian Studies | |
Download the Invitation
Wednesday 14 December 2011
14:30-16:30
At EIAS
The European Institute for Asian Studies (EIAS) have the pleasure of inviting you to the EIAS Briefing Seminar on "The Renminbi on the Internationalisation Trail", which is taking place on Wednesday 14 December 2011, from 14:30 to 16:30, at the European Institute for Asian Studies.
To register for this event, please confirm your participation by sending an e-mail to mattias.petersen@eias.org by Tuesday, 13 December 2011, indicating your name, organisation, position and contact details.
The Renminbi rapidly cast in an international role
The Chinese currency, the Renminbi (RMB), is rapidly moving to a centre stage in discussions concerning the international monetary system, which is clearly in need of reform. In the meantime, and with the consent of the Chinese authorities, the use of the RMB is spreading rapidly beyond China’s borders. Hong Kong, with its own economic system and currency, hereby performs an essential function. Various steps on the internationalising of the RMB have already been taken. Monetary prominence thus emerges as a side-effect of the astonishing growth of the Chinese economy and of its involvement in world trade and investment.
Prof. Sylvain PLASSCHAERT, Member of the EIAS Advisory Board, is Prof. em. at the University of Antwerp and of the Catholic University of Leuven. Previous to a full-time academic career, he worked at the World Bank in Washington and in a Belgian commercial bank. Amongst other courses, he taught ‘international business finance’ and ‘economic developments in China‘. On the latter subject, he published two books (in Dutch, 2001 and 2007) ) and a number of papers, including “Is the Renminbi undervalued? The myths of China’s trade surplus and global imbalances” (working paper 09/2011 at the European Centre for International Political Economy (ECIPE) in Brussels).
Download the Invitation
14:30-16:30
At EIAS
The European Institute for Asian Studies (EIAS) have the pleasure of inviting you to the EIAS Briefing Seminar on "The Renminbi on the Internationalisation Trail", which is taking place on Wednesday 14 December 2011, from 14:30 to 16:30, at the European Institute for Asian Studies.
To register for this event, please confirm your participation by sending an e-mail to mattias.petersen@eias.org by Tuesday, 13 December 2011, indicating your name, organisation, position and contact details.
| Programme | |
| 14:00-14:30 | Registration |
| 14:30-14:45 | Introduction by the Chair: |
| Mr. Glyn Ford, Board Member of the European Institute for Asian Studies, Director of Polint | |
| 14:45-15:45 | Keynote Speech by |
| Prof. em. Sylvain Plasschaert, Board Member of the European Institute for Asian Studies Discussants Mr. Georges Legros, Mr Vice-Chairman of the Belgium Hong Kong Society and Chairman of the Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations Worldwide Mr. Peter Dun, Bureau of European Policy Advisors, European Commission Mr Gianni Girolami, Marketing Manager from the Industrial Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) | |
| 15:45-16:30 | Discussion, Questions and Answers |
The Renminbi rapidly cast in an international role
The Chinese currency, the Renminbi (RMB), is rapidly moving to a centre stage in discussions concerning the international monetary system, which is clearly in need of reform. In the meantime, and with the consent of the Chinese authorities, the use of the RMB is spreading rapidly beyond China’s borders. Hong Kong, with its own economic system and currency, hereby performs an essential function. Various steps on the internationalising of the RMB have already been taken. Monetary prominence thus emerges as a side-effect of the astonishing growth of the Chinese economy and of its involvement in world trade and investment.
Prof. Sylvain PLASSCHAERT, Member of the EIAS Advisory Board, is Prof. em. at the University of Antwerp and of the Catholic University of Leuven. Previous to a full-time academic career, he worked at the World Bank in Washington and in a Belgian commercial bank. Amongst other courses, he taught ‘international business finance’ and ‘economic developments in China‘. On the latter subject, he published two books (in Dutch, 2001 and 2007) ) and a number of papers, including “Is the Renminbi undervalued? The myths of China’s trade surplus and global imbalances” (working paper 09/2011 at the European Centre for International Political Economy (ECIPE) in Brussels).
Download the Invitation
Monday 12 December 2011
19:00-22:00
At EIAS
As a prelude to the well-deserved festive holidays, the European Institute for Asian Studies would like to invite you to "Asia-EUth: A Christmas Prelude". This social event for young people will take place on 12 December 2011 at EIAS.
It will be the perfect opportunity to get together and have a few drinks, while listening to some pleasant music. Beverages will be served at democratic prices.
To register for this event, please confirm your participation by sending an e-mail to m.dumas@eias.org, indicating your name, organisation, position and contact details.
Download the Flyer
19:00-22:00
At EIAS
As a prelude to the well-deserved festive holidays, the European Institute for Asian Studies would like to invite you to "Asia-EUth: A Christmas Prelude". This social event for young people will take place on 12 December 2011 at EIAS.
It will be the perfect opportunity to get together and have a few drinks, while listening to some pleasant music. Beverages will be served at democratic prices.
To register for this event, please confirm your participation by sending an e-mail to m.dumas@eias.org, indicating your name, organisation, position and contact details.
Download the Flyer
The 8th Conference of the Council for Security Cooperation in the Asia Pacific - Observations and Remarks
Monday 12 December 2011
17:30-18:30
At EIAS
The European Institute for Asian Studies (EIAS) have the pleasure of inviting you to the Special Briefing on "The 8th Conference of the Council for Security Cooperation in the Asia Pacific - Observations and Remarks", which is taking place on Monday 12 December 2011, from 17:30 to 18:30, at the European Institute for Asian Studies.
To register for this event, please confirm your participation by sending an e-mail to giada.sun@eias.org by Friday, 9 December 2011, indicating your name, organisation, position and contact details.
The Council for Security Cooperation in the Asia Pacific (CSCAP), established in 1993, is a non-governmental process for dialogue on security issues in the Asia Pacific. It provides an opportunity for scholars, officials and others to discuss, in their private capacities, political and security issues and challenges in the region and to exchange information and experiences. It consists of 21 full members of the Council, one associate Member and numerous individual members. The 8th General Conference of CSCAP took place on 21-22 November 2011, in Hanoi, Vietnam. Various topics concerning security were discussed during this two-day conference, such as nuclear, maritime and water security, as well as more general topics, such as ASEAN and China.
Download the Invitation
17:30-18:30
At EIAS
The European Institute for Asian Studies (EIAS) have the pleasure of inviting you to the Special Briefing on "The 8th Conference of the Council for Security Cooperation in the Asia Pacific - Observations and Remarks", which is taking place on Monday 12 December 2011, from 17:30 to 18:30, at the European Institute for Asian Studies.
To register for this event, please confirm your participation by sending an e-mail to giada.sun@eias.org by Friday, 9 December 2011, indicating your name, organisation, position and contact details.
| Programme | |
| 17:15-17:30 | Registration |
| 17:30-17:50 | Presentation on the recent Conference of the Council for Security Cooperation in the Asia Pacific by Mr. David Fouquet, Senior Associate of the European Institute for Asian Studies |
| 17:50-18:30 | Discussion |
The Council for Security Cooperation in the Asia Pacific (CSCAP), established in 1993, is a non-governmental process for dialogue on security issues in the Asia Pacific. It provides an opportunity for scholars, officials and others to discuss, in their private capacities, political and security issues and challenges in the region and to exchange information and experiences. It consists of 21 full members of the Council, one associate Member and numerous individual members. The 8th General Conference of CSCAP took place on 21-22 November 2011, in Hanoi, Vietnam. Various topics concerning security were discussed during this two-day conference, such as nuclear, maritime and water security, as well as more general topics, such as ASEAN and China.
Download the Invitation
Thursday 1 December 2011
14:00-16:00
at EIAS
The European Institute for Asian Studies has the pleasure of inviting you to the EIAS Briefing Seminar on "EU-SAARC in Afghanistan after 2014: Shifting from military to civilian power?", which is taking place on Thursday 1 December 2011, from 14:00 to 16:00, at the European Institute for Asian Studies.
To register for this event, please confirm your participation to m.dumas@eias.org, indicating your name, position, organisation and contact details.
How can the South Asian member states have a role in the transition from military to humanitarian intervention in Afghanistan after 2014?
In light of the ongoing annual meeting of SAARC, the EIAS hopes to direct the debate on the potential mechanisms that the South Asian member states could undertake to ensure long-term stability in the region after 2014. Indeed, SAARC was created to promote “peace, stability, amity and progress” in the region and the eighth and last member to join the organization was Afghanistan.
Hence, Afghanistan is at crossroads. Decisions taken, before and after 2014, will be critical for the stability of the South Asia region. A number of highly sensible security issues have been touched upon this year, as a result of a numerous attacks on UN and NATO forces. In addition, the long-standing relationship between the US and Pakistan is deteriorating, heightened tensions have increasingly isolated Pakistan from the international arena. While international forces in Afghanistan witness rather positive progresses in the south of the country, the hitherto relatively peaceful Northern provinces have been increasingly plagued by new terrorist act by various groups. An international consensus clearly exists among leaders, army officials and diplomats: the commitment to Afghanistan cannot end when the ISAF troop withdrawal in 2014.
While Allies have little visibility on the political and culture norms in Afghanistan, the South Asian nations are more aware of the cultural, political and geostrategic stakes in the country. After 2014, the commitment to Afghanistan will have to shift from a military intervention to an institution building support. Afghans are building their state from the basis; it needs infrastructure, strong and transparent institutions and an efficient representation of tribal minorities. South Asian countries all have a stake in protecting the stability of the region therefore, could South Asian nations in particular India replace NATO when the troops will have left?
Download the Invitation
Photos of the Event
14:00-16:00
at EIAS
The European Institute for Asian Studies has the pleasure of inviting you to the EIAS Briefing Seminar on "EU-SAARC in Afghanistan after 2014: Shifting from military to civilian power?", which is taking place on Thursday 1 December 2011, from 14:00 to 16:00, at the European Institute for Asian Studies.
To register for this event, please confirm your participation to m.dumas@eias.org, indicating your name, position, organisation and contact details.
| Programme | |
| 13:30-14:00 | Registration |
| 14:00-14:15 | Introduction by the Chair: |
| Mr. Dick Gupwell, Vice-Chairman of the European Institute for Asian Studies | |
| 14:15-15:15 | Presentations by |
| H.E. Mr. Homayoun Tandar, Ambassador of Afghanistan to Belgium H.E. Mr. Jalil Abbas Jilani, Ambassador of Pakistan to Belgium Dr. Hari Bansh Jha,Centre for Economic and Technical Studies, Kathmandu, Nepal, Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, New Delhi, and Visiting Researcher at the German Institute of Global and Area Studies, Hamburg Dr. Sari Kouvo, Senior Programme Fellow, International Centre for Transitional Justice | |
| 15:15-16:00 | Discussion, Questions and Answers |
How can the South Asian member states have a role in the transition from military to humanitarian intervention in Afghanistan after 2014?
In light of the ongoing annual meeting of SAARC, the EIAS hopes to direct the debate on the potential mechanisms that the South Asian member states could undertake to ensure long-term stability in the region after 2014. Indeed, SAARC was created to promote “peace, stability, amity and progress” in the region and the eighth and last member to join the organization was Afghanistan.
Hence, Afghanistan is at crossroads. Decisions taken, before and after 2014, will be critical for the stability of the South Asia region. A number of highly sensible security issues have been touched upon this year, as a result of a numerous attacks on UN and NATO forces. In addition, the long-standing relationship between the US and Pakistan is deteriorating, heightened tensions have increasingly isolated Pakistan from the international arena. While international forces in Afghanistan witness rather positive progresses in the south of the country, the hitherto relatively peaceful Northern provinces have been increasingly plagued by new terrorist act by various groups. An international consensus clearly exists among leaders, army officials and diplomats: the commitment to Afghanistan cannot end when the ISAF troop withdrawal in 2014.
While Allies have little visibility on the political and culture norms in Afghanistan, the South Asian nations are more aware of the cultural, political and geostrategic stakes in the country. After 2014, the commitment to Afghanistan will have to shift from a military intervention to an institution building support. Afghans are building their state from the basis; it needs infrastructure, strong and transparent institutions and an efficient representation of tribal minorities. South Asian countries all have a stake in protecting the stability of the region therefore, could South Asian nations in particular India replace NATO when the troops will have left?
Download the Invitation
Photos of the Event
Wednesday 30 November 2011
10:30-12:30
at EIAS
The European Institute for Asian Studies has the pleasure of inviting you to the EIAS Briefing Seminar on "The Impact of the EU-Korea FTA on EU's Trade Relations in the Region", which is taking place on Wednesday 30 November 2011, from 10:30 to 12:30, followed by a networking lunch, at the European Institute for Asian Studies.
To register for this event, please confirm your participation to lidia.iancu@eias.org, indicating your name, position, organisation and contact details.
The Impact of the EU-Korea FTA on EU's Trade Relations in the Region
The EU-Korea Free Trade Agreement (FTA) inaugurates a new chapter in bilateral trade agreements and opens the door for new EU-Asia trade relations. In force since 1 July 2011, the agreement immediately led to the elimination 70% of tariffs. On the long-term, it will lead to the abolishment of 98.7% in tariff duties covering over 20,000 items and to a minimal increase of 20% of the bilateral trade.
This FTA marked a new evolution in the EU's bilateral trade policy. However, it also challenges the competitiveness of other trade partners in Asia, such as Japan, China, Taiwan and the South East Asian Nations of ASEAN. The FTA could act as a strong incentive for these partners to initiate and move forward their own FTA and other trade negotiations with the EU. For the EU on the other hand, this represents a momentum to conclude new-generation FTAs with its other main trade partners in the Asian region. Although in its infancy, the impact of the EU-Korea FTA in the region should not be undervalued.
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The Powerpoint Presentation of Abassador Lin
The Powerpoint Presentation of Mr Oh
The Powerpoint Presentation of Mr Kerneis
Photos of the Event
10:30-12:30
at EIAS
The European Institute for Asian Studies has the pleasure of inviting you to the EIAS Briefing Seminar on "The Impact of the EU-Korea FTA on EU's Trade Relations in the Region", which is taking place on Wednesday 30 November 2011, from 10:30 to 12:30, followed by a networking lunch, at the European Institute for Asian Studies.
To register for this event, please confirm your participation to lidia.iancu@eias.org, indicating your name, position, organisation and contact details.
| Programme | |
| 10:00-10:30 | Registration |
| 10:30-10:45 | Introduction by the Chair: |
| Mr. Glyn Ford, Board Member of the European Institute for Asian Studies | |
| 10:45-12:00 | Presentations by |
| Mr. Peter Berz, Acting Head of Unit, Trade Relations with South Asia, Korea and ASEAN, DG Trade, European Commission H.E. Mr. David Lin, Representative of Taipei Representative Office in the European Union and Belgium H.E. Mr. Dato' Zainuddin Yahya, Ambassador of Malaysia to the Kingdom of Belgium, the European Union and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg Mr. Yonghyup Oh,Visiting Fellow at the Centre for European Policy Studies Mr. Pascal Kerneis, Managing Director of the European Services Forum, Advisor to BusinessEurope | |
| 12:00-12:30 | Discussion, Questions and Answers |
| 12:30-14:30 | Networking Lunch |
The Impact of the EU-Korea FTA on EU's Trade Relations in the Region
The EU-Korea Free Trade Agreement (FTA) inaugurates a new chapter in bilateral trade agreements and opens the door for new EU-Asia trade relations. In force since 1 July 2011, the agreement immediately led to the elimination 70% of tariffs. On the long-term, it will lead to the abolishment of 98.7% in tariff duties covering over 20,000 items and to a minimal increase of 20% of the bilateral trade.
This FTA marked a new evolution in the EU's bilateral trade policy. However, it also challenges the competitiveness of other trade partners in Asia, such as Japan, China, Taiwan and the South East Asian Nations of ASEAN. The FTA could act as a strong incentive for these partners to initiate and move forward their own FTA and other trade negotiations with the EU. For the EU on the other hand, this represents a momentum to conclude new-generation FTAs with its other main trade partners in the Asian region. Although in its infancy, the impact of the EU-Korea FTA in the region should not be undervalued.
Download the Invitation
The Powerpoint Presentation of Abassador Lin
The Powerpoint Presentation of Mr Oh
The Powerpoint Presentation of Mr Kerneis
Photos of the Event
