
2005 Events
List of Events
List of Events
2005. Research Project: Changing Regional Security Structure?
2005.12.14. First East Asian Summit
2005.12.12-13. ASEM’s Role in Enhancing Asia-Europe Cooperation
2005.12.08. Outcomes of the 13th SAARC Summit: Integration and Enlargement
2005.12.04-07. Security in the Pacific Region - Regional
2005.12.01. The 2005 Presidential Elections in Sri Lanka
2005.11.29. The EU’s Role in the Aceh Peace Process Monitoring
2005.11.22-24. 7th Europe-East Asia Think Tank Dialogue
2005.11. Visitors from Myanmar
2005.11.17. The European Union’s Strategic Interests in East Asia
2005.11.07. Chinese Economic Development and its Global Impact
2005.10.18 & 20. Taiwan-China Cross-Straits Relations: What role for the EU?
2005.10.05-07. Shaping Change, Strategies of Development and Transformation
2005.10.06. Mekong Sub-regional Integration: Cambodia and Lao PDR
2005.10.04. Burma and ASEAN - The Way Forward
2005.09.28. EBS London Jean Monnet Memorial Lecture
2005.09.21. DPRK Ministry of Foreign Affairs
2005.09.16-17. Regional Political and Economic Cooperation in Asia
2005.09.14-15. Ten Years of ASEM
2005.08.31-09.01. The 5th Asian International Forum in Fukuoka
2005.08.20-24. International Convention of Asia Scholars 4
2005.07.28. The EU and the emergent Economic Powers in Asia
2005.07.26. Visitors from Hong Kong University
2005.06.20. Economics and Politics of East Asian Cooperation and China’s Role
2005.06.10. EU-China Relations and the EU’s Arms Embargo
2005.06.02-04. EU-Asia Inter-Regionalism
2005.04.25. Meeting the Challenges of Helping South Asia More Effectively
2005.04.28. Kashmir - What Role for the EU?
2005.04.21. From Bullets to Ballots & Beyond: Building Post-Conflict Democracies
2005.04.07. Taiwan and the WHO: Promoting Global Public Health
2005.04.06 Lifting the Arms Embargo on China: A shift in the EU Priorities?
2005.04.06. ASEAN Regional Cooperation
2005.03.17. Indonesia - Human Rights in Aceh in the Post-Tsunami Context
2005.03.15. The Post-Tsunami Relief Effort 3
2005.03.02. Democracy and Governance in Nepal
2005.03.01. EU-Taiwan Video Conference
2005.02.15. The Post-Tsunami Relief Effort
2005.01.25. International Criminal Justice in Asia: From Tokyo Trials to ICC
2005.01.19. Post-Tsunami Relief, Reconstruction and Development
2005.01.03. Regionalism vs Multi-lateralism: What Could Bangladesh learn from the Global Experience?
2005.12.14. First East Asian Summit
2005.12.12-13. ASEM’s Role in Enhancing Asia-Europe Cooperation
2005.12.08. Outcomes of the 13th SAARC Summit: Integration and Enlargement
2005.12.04-07. Security in the Pacific Region - Regional
2005.12.01. The 2005 Presidential Elections in Sri Lanka
2005.11.29. The EU’s Role in the Aceh Peace Process Monitoring
2005.11.22-24. 7th Europe-East Asia Think Tank Dialogue
2005.11. Visitors from Myanmar
2005.11.17. The European Union’s Strategic Interests in East Asia
2005.11.07. Chinese Economic Development and its Global Impact
2005.10.18 & 20. Taiwan-China Cross-Straits Relations: What role for the EU?
2005.10.05-07. Shaping Change, Strategies of Development and Transformation
2005.10.06. Mekong Sub-regional Integration: Cambodia and Lao PDR
2005.10.04. Burma and ASEAN - The Way Forward
2005.09.28. EBS London Jean Monnet Memorial Lecture
2005.09.21. DPRK Ministry of Foreign Affairs
2005.09.16-17. Regional Political and Economic Cooperation in Asia
2005.09.14-15. Ten Years of ASEM
2005.08.31-09.01. The 5th Asian International Forum in Fukuoka
2005.08.20-24. International Convention of Asia Scholars 4
2005.07.28. The EU and the emergent Economic Powers in Asia
2005.07.26. Visitors from Hong Kong University
2005.06.20. Economics and Politics of East Asian Cooperation and China’s Role
2005.06.10. EU-China Relations and the EU’s Arms Embargo
2005.06.02-04. EU-Asia Inter-Regionalism
2005.04.25. Meeting the Challenges of Helping South Asia More Effectively
2005.04.28. Kashmir - What Role for the EU?
2005.04.21. From Bullets to Ballots & Beyond: Building Post-Conflict Democracies
2005.04.07. Taiwan and the WHO: Promoting Global Public Health
2005.04.06 Lifting the Arms Embargo on China: A shift in the EU Priorities?
2005.04.06. ASEAN Regional Cooperation
2005.03.17. Indonesia - Human Rights in Aceh in the Post-Tsunami Context
2005.03.15. The Post-Tsunami Relief Effort 3
2005.03.02. Democracy and Governance in Nepal
2005.03.01. EU-Taiwan Video Conference
2005.02.15. The Post-Tsunami Relief Effort
2005.01.25. International Criminal Justice in Asia: From Tokyo Trials to ICC
2005.01.19. Post-Tsunami Relief, Reconstruction and Development
2005.01.03. Regionalism vs Multi-lateralism: What Could Bangladesh learn from the Global Experience?
EU-NIAS Research Project: Changing Regional Security Structure? The EU's Opportunities to play a Role in Asian Security Politics
EIAS has contributed to a report commissioned by the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the EU’s role in Asian security in collaboration with the Nordic Institute of Asian Studies, a partner in the European Strategic Alliance for Asian Studies.
On 19 May, EIAS travelled to Copenhagen to discuss the draft of the report entitled The Security Situation in Asia: Changing Regional Security Structure? The EU’s Opportunities to Play a Role in Asian Security Politics.
The study, directed by NIAS’s Dr Timo Kivimäki and Jørgen Delman, highlights the major security interests of the EU vis-à-vis Asia, identifying key actors, challenges and threats to both intra and interregional stability, and the opportunities and scope for interregional security cooperation. Within this context, a set of recommendations will be formulated to the EU in its approach to future engagement with the region.
Other chapter contributors include Dr. Timo Kivimäki, Dr. Geir Helgesen and Camilla Tenna Sørensen of NIAS; Clemens Stubbe Østergaard, Associate Professor, Department of Political Science, University of Aarhus; Christian Fjäder, Director, International Business Risk Services, Helsinki; and Professor David M. Lampton, Dean of Faculty, George & Sadie Hyman Professor of China Studies, Director of China Studies Program, Johns Hopkins University, Maryland.
In Copenhagen, the authors met initially at NIAS to discuss preliminary changes to the report before making a formal presentation at a seminar in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, chaired by Susan Ulbæk, Head of Department for Asia. The occasion provided an opportunity for thoughtful and candid debate from both officials and academics that will be reflected in coming drafts.
14 December 2005, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
EIAS Director Dr Willem van der Geest is observing a unique series of Summits being held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Starting with the 11th ASEAN Summit in the morning, the afternoon will be devoted to the ASEAN+3 Summit, including China, Japan and Korea. The day will end with the ASEAN-China summit. Tuesday will feature further ASEAN+1 meetings involving Japan, Russia and India. The three day marathon will culminate in the first East Asia Summit on Wednesday 14th with no less than 16 countries attending, including also Australia, India and New Zealand.
Representing more than half of the world's population, the East Asia Summit is the most ambitious exercise in community-building ever undertaken in Asia or globally. Yet, the scope and remit of the Summit remains subject of intense discussion. Will it concentrate solely on confidence building between highly diverse nations? Or will it kick-off a process of integration a-la-EU, eventually creating common institutions, common policies and supra-national decision-making? A first assessment will be available on this site, as the Summits unfold.
Updates From The Conference:
ASEAN retains centrality by Dr Willem Van Der Geest
Kuala Lumpur Declaration on the Establishment of the ASEAN Charter
EIAS Director Dr Willem van der Geest is observing a unique series of Summits being held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Starting with the 11th ASEAN Summit in the morning, the afternoon will be devoted to the ASEAN+3 Summit, including China, Japan and Korea. The day will end with the ASEAN-China summit. Tuesday will feature further ASEAN+1 meetings involving Japan, Russia and India. The three day marathon will culminate in the first East Asia Summit on Wednesday 14th with no less than 16 countries attending, including also Australia, India and New Zealand.
Representing more than half of the world's population, the East Asia Summit is the most ambitious exercise in community-building ever undertaken in Asia or globally. Yet, the scope and remit of the Summit remains subject of intense discussion. Will it concentrate solely on confidence building between highly diverse nations? Or will it kick-off a process of integration a-la-EU, eventually creating common institutions, common policies and supra-national decision-making? A first assessment will be available on this site, as the Summits unfold.
Updates From The Conference:
ASEAN retains centrality by Dr Willem Van Der Geest
Kuala Lumpur Declaration on the Establishment of the ASEAN Charter
Conference: ASEM's Role in Enhancing Asia-Europe Cooperation: Ten Years of Achievements and Future Challenges“
12-13 December 2005
Tokyo
Dr. Sebastian Bersick has been invited to participate in the conference jointly organised by the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) and the Japan Center for International Exchange (JCIE), and with the collaboration of the EU Institute in Japan (EUIJ). The conference is a component of the ASEF/JCIE joint project "10 Years of ASEM" which aims to critically review the Asia–Europe Meeting (ASEM) process over the past ten years and present a vision for the forum’s future. The conference in Tokyo is part of a joint research project that JCIE and the University of Helsinki Network for European Studies have been undertaking at the request of the Japanese and Finnish governments.
The final report, which will assess ten years of achievements of ASEM and its future challenges, will be presented at the ASEM 6 Senior Officials Meeting (ASEM 6 SOM) in Vienna in March 2006. Research is being conducted presently by Asian and European research teams, and their draft reports will serve as a basis for joint exploration at the Tokyo conference. The Asian research team includes members from China, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. On the European side, the University of Helsinki Network for European Studies is compiling a report through consultation with European
Tokyo
Dr. Sebastian Bersick has been invited to participate in the conference jointly organised by the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) and the Japan Center for International Exchange (JCIE), and with the collaboration of the EU Institute in Japan (EUIJ). The conference is a component of the ASEF/JCIE joint project "10 Years of ASEM" which aims to critically review the Asia–Europe Meeting (ASEM) process over the past ten years and present a vision for the forum’s future. The conference in Tokyo is part of a joint research project that JCIE and the University of Helsinki Network for European Studies have been undertaking at the request of the Japanese and Finnish governments.
The final report, which will assess ten years of achievements of ASEM and its future challenges, will be presented at the ASEM 6 Senior Officials Meeting (ASEM 6 SOM) in Vienna in March 2006. Research is being conducted presently by Asian and European research teams, and their draft reports will serve as a basis for joint exploration at the Tokyo conference. The Asian research team includes members from China, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. On the European side, the University of Helsinki Network for European Studies is compiling a report through consultation with European
8 December, 2005, EIAS, Brussels
Speaker: H.E. Mr. Maudud Ali, Ambassador of Bangladesh to the European Union
Chair: Mr. Dick Gupwell, Secretary General, EIAS, Brussels
The 13th SAARC Summit, held in Dhaka on November 11-13, was of crucial importance with regards to the development of regional and global integration in South Asia. Amongst the outcomes was an agreement for Afghanistan to become a member with effect of the next summit meeting, an agreement that both China and Japan will be granted observer status to the SAARC, firm commitment to the realisation of a South Asian economic union and SAFTA, and an agreement of India to invest $100 million in the South Asia Development Fund. Furthermore, the very excellent political atmosphere in which the summit took place was noted.
As a distinguished member of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, Bangladesh hosted the 13th SAARC Summit which brought together Heads of States of the seven SAARC members. The European Institute for Asian Studies is honored to welcome H.E. Mr. Maudud Ali, Ambassador of Bangladesh to the European Union, to present the outcomes of this Summit and their implications for future integration and enlargement. Following his presentation, ambassadors and representatives from SAARC countries and other interested countries will offer their perspectives on behalf of their respective governments.
Photos of the Event
Speaker: H.E. Mr. Maudud Ali, Ambassador of Bangladesh to the European UnionChair: Mr. Dick Gupwell, Secretary General, EIAS, Brussels
The 13th SAARC Summit, held in Dhaka on November 11-13, was of crucial importance with regards to the development of regional and global integration in South Asia. Amongst the outcomes was an agreement for Afghanistan to become a member with effect of the next summit meeting, an agreement that both China and Japan will be granted observer status to the SAARC, firm commitment to the realisation of a South Asian economic union and SAFTA, and an agreement of India to invest $100 million in the South Asia Development Fund. Furthermore, the very excellent political atmosphere in which the summit took place was noted.
As a distinguished member of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, Bangladesh hosted the 13th SAARC Summit which brought together Heads of States of the seven SAARC members. The European Institute for Asian Studies is honored to welcome H.E. Mr. Maudud Ali, Ambassador of Bangladesh to the European Union, to present the outcomes of this Summit and their implications for future integration and enlargement. Following his presentation, ambassadors and representatives from SAARC countries and other interested countries will offer their perspectives on behalf of their respective governments.
Photos of the Event
4-7 December 2005
Austrian National Defence Academy, Vienna
Dr. Sebastian Bersick gave a lecture on the topic “A European View on the Security Developments in the Pacific Region“. Further participants of the panel „The Security in the Pacific Region – Challenges and Opportunities“ have been Ambassador [ret.] Harvey Feldman, former Asia expert, Department of State, Washington, D.C. and Prof. Dr. Sergej Bolschakow, Chair for Foreign Policy, Diplomatic Academy of the Foreign Ministry, Moscow.
Related documents:
Conference's programme
Austrian National Defence Academy, Vienna
Dr. Sebastian Bersick gave a lecture on the topic “A European View on the Security Developments in the Pacific Region“. Further participants of the panel „The Security in the Pacific Region – Challenges and Opportunities“ have been Ambassador [ret.] Harvey Feldman, former Asia expert, Department of State, Washington, D.C. and Prof. Dr. Sergej Bolschakow, Chair for Foreign Policy, Diplomatic Academy of the Foreign Ministry, Moscow.
Related documents:
Conference's programme
1 December 2005, EIAS, Brussels
Speaker: Mr. John Cushnahan, Chief Observer, European Union Election Observation Mission (EOM) to Sri Lanka, Board Member, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
Chair: Dr. Willem van der Geest, Director, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
On 17 November, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapakse of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) won Sri Lanka's closely fought presidential election. In the run-up to the election, reports of misuse of public resources for campaigning, biased coverage by the state media and even a Supreme Court interim order discriminating against voters from LTTE areas threatened to de-legitimise the election process. On the day of the election, violence in the North and East of the country obstructed balanced participation whilst an enforced boycott by the LTTE further hindered voter turnout.
A European Union Election Observation Mission (EOM) was present in Sri Lanka, both leading up to elections and on election day, to monitor the process. EOMs are deployed, at the invitation of the concerned government, by the European Union as a tool for advancing democracy, human rights and respect for the rule of law. Over the years, the EU has built up a reputation in the field of election observation as a fair and impartial actor promoting transparency and international standards for democratic elections through its presence and reporting in a wide range of countries.
The European Institute for Asian Studies is honoured to welcome Mr. John Cushnahan, Chief Observer of the EOM in Sri Lanka, to speak on the presidential election in Sri Lanka and the Preliminary Statement issued by the EOM on 19 November in Colombo. Has Sri Lanka made progress in the conduct of democratic elections; what lessons can be drawn from this latest presidential election; and what challenges are foreseen in the future?
Photos of the Event
Speaker: Mr. John Cushnahan, Chief Observer, European Union Election Observation Mission (EOM) to Sri Lanka, Board Member, European Institute for Asian Studies, BrusselsChair: Dr. Willem van der Geest, Director, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
On 17 November, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapakse of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) won Sri Lanka's closely fought presidential election. In the run-up to the election, reports of misuse of public resources for campaigning, biased coverage by the state media and even a Supreme Court interim order discriminating against voters from LTTE areas threatened to de-legitimise the election process. On the day of the election, violence in the North and East of the country obstructed balanced participation whilst an enforced boycott by the LTTE further hindered voter turnout.
A European Union Election Observation Mission (EOM) was present in Sri Lanka, both leading up to elections and on election day, to monitor the process. EOMs are deployed, at the invitation of the concerned government, by the European Union as a tool for advancing democracy, human rights and respect for the rule of law. Over the years, the EU has built up a reputation in the field of election observation as a fair and impartial actor promoting transparency and international standards for democratic elections through its presence and reporting in a wide range of countries.The European Institute for Asian Studies is honoured to welcome Mr. John Cushnahan, Chief Observer of the EOM in Sri Lanka, to speak on the presidential election in Sri Lanka and the Preliminary Statement issued by the EOM on 19 November in Colombo. Has Sri Lanka made progress in the conduct of democratic elections; what lessons can be drawn from this latest presidential election; and what challenges are foreseen in the future?
Photos of the Event
29 November 2005, EIAS, Brussels
Speakers: H.E. Ambassador Tomasz Kozlowski, Head of Task Force for Asia, Policy Unit, Council of the European Union
Dr. Timo Kivimäki, Senior Researcher, Nordic Institute of Asian Studies
Chair: Dr. Willem van der Geest, Director, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
On August 15 2005 in Helsinki, the Indonesian government and the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) concluded a Memorandum of Understanding opening the way for a resolution of more than thirty years of conflict. In order to impartially implement the peace agreement, the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM) was established comprising the EU and five ASEAN countries. Officially launched on 15 September, the AMM presence is based on an official invitation from the Indonesian government and the support of GAM leadership. Two months into the process, considerable progress has been made but challenges remain.
The European Institute for Asian Studies is honoured to welcome H.E. Ambassador Tomasz Kozlowski of the European Council and Dr. Timo Kivimäki from the Nordic Institute of Asian Studies to speak at this event. Dr. Kivimäki, who acted as an advisor to the CMI in Helsinki during the bilateral talks between the GAM and the Government of Indonesia, will provide an analysis of the talks in Helsinki, speaking on the factors that contributed to the successful conclusion of these talks.
Following this presentation, Ambassador Kozlowski will address and review the involvement of the European Union in the post-Tsunami peace monitoring in Aceh, presenting a Council perspective and examining the political consequences thereof.
Photos of the Event
Speakers: H.E. Ambassador Tomasz Kozlowski, Head of Task Force for Asia, Policy Unit, Council of the European Union
Dr. Timo Kivimäki, Senior Researcher, Nordic Institute of Asian Studies
Chair: Dr. Willem van der Geest, Director, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
On August 15 2005 in Helsinki, the Indonesian government and the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) concluded a Memorandum of Understanding opening the way for a resolution of more than thirty years of conflict. In order to impartially implement the peace agreement, the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM) was established comprising the EU and five ASEAN countries. Officially launched on 15 September, the AMM presence is based on an official invitation from the Indonesian government and the support of GAM leadership. Two months into the process, considerable progress has been made but challenges remain.The European Institute for Asian Studies is honoured to welcome H.E. Ambassador Tomasz Kozlowski of the European Council and Dr. Timo Kivimäki from the Nordic Institute of Asian Studies to speak at this event. Dr. Kivimäki, who acted as an advisor to the CMI in Helsinki during the bilateral talks between the GAM and the Government of Indonesia, will provide an analysis of the talks in Helsinki, speaking on the factors that contributed to the successful conclusion of these talks.
Following this presentation, Ambassador Kozlowski will address and review the involvement of the European Union in the post-Tsunami peace monitoring in Aceh, presenting a Council perspective and examining the political consequences thereof.Photos of the Event
22 to 24 November 2005
Jakarta and Denpasar, Indonesia
EIAS co-organized the 7th EU-Asia Think Tank dialogue, jointly with the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung regional offices in Singapore and Brussels and the ASEAN-ISIS. This year the meeting washosted by the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), Jakarta.
Related documents:
Conference's programme
Evaluation report by Prof. Manfred Mols
Jakarta and Denpasar, Indonesia
EIAS co-organized the 7th EU-Asia Think Tank dialogue, jointly with the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung regional offices in Singapore and Brussels and the ASEAN-ISIS. This year the meeting washosted by the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), Jakarta.
Related documents:
Conference's programme
Evaluation report by Prof. Manfred Mols
We hosted a discussion on the structure and role of the governmental institutions of Europe for a delegation from Myanmar, headed by U Nyan Lynn, Director General, Political Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Myanmar.
U Nyan Lynn, Director General, Political Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Myanmar and Dr Willem van der Geest, EIAS Director, pictured during discussions.
U Nyan Lynn, Director General, Political Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Myanmar and Dr Willem van der Geest, EIAS Director, pictured during discussions.
17 November, 2005, EIAS, Brussels
Speakers: Dr. Willem van der Geest, Director, EIAS
Dr. Sebastian Bersick, Research Fellow, EIAS
Chair: Mr. Dick Gupwell, Secretary General, EIAS
The relationship between the EU and East Asia has evolved in the past decade with both continents undergoing major economic, political and social changes. With China leading the region’s fast economic growth and with political collaboration within the region intensifying, East Asian cooperation has major economic, political and security implications for the world, generating both opportunities and challenges for the EU.
The European Institute for Asian Studies, in collaboration with its consortium partner Nomisma, has recently completed a comprehensive review for the EU entitled “The European Union’s Strategic Interests in East Asia”. The study was commissioned by the EU Commission as a guide to reassessing Europe's strategic interests in East Asia by providing information on the region’s likely development in economic, political, security and socio-cultural terms, with a special focus on intra-regional co-operation - in particular China’s role.
In particular the study aimed to:
Analyse the current factual situation in the region, and in particular China, including relations with major global powers like the USA, Russia, India and the EU;
Identify long-term shaping factors that affect/determine co-operation within East Asia and with the EU;
Undertake a strategic analysis of the major world players in the region;
Examine the existing EU policies and strategies towards the region and China;
Analyse the challenges posed by the major powers in the region (Russia, China, USA, India); Elaborate alternative scenarios, new options and recommendations for EU policies.
Executive summary of the report:
The European Union’s Strategic Interests in East Asia
Photos of the Event
Speakers: Dr. Willem van der Geest, Director, EIASDr. Sebastian Bersick, Research Fellow, EIAS
Chair: Mr. Dick Gupwell, Secretary General, EIAS
The relationship between the EU and East Asia has evolved in the past decade with both continents undergoing major economic, political and social changes. With China leading the region’s fast economic growth and with political collaboration within the region intensifying, East Asian cooperation has major economic, political and security implications for the world, generating both opportunities and challenges for the EU.
The European Institute for Asian Studies, in collaboration with its consortium partner Nomisma, has recently completed a comprehensive review for the EU entitled “The European Union’s Strategic Interests in East Asia”. The study was commissioned by the EU Commission as a guide to reassessing Europe's strategic interests in East Asia by providing information on the region’s likely development in economic, political, security and socio-cultural terms, with a special focus on intra-regional co-operation - in particular China’s role.In particular the study aimed to:
Analyse the current factual situation in the region, and in particular China, including relations with major global powers like the USA, Russia, India and the EU;
Identify long-term shaping factors that affect/determine co-operation within East Asia and with the EU;
Undertake a strategic analysis of the major world players in the region;
Examine the existing EU policies and strategies towards the region and China;
Analyse the challenges posed by the major powers in the region (Russia, China, USA, India); Elaborate alternative scenarios, new options and recommendations for EU policies.
Executive summary of the report:
The European Union’s Strategic Interests in East Asia
Photos of the Event
7 November, 2005 from 12:30 to 14:00, EIAS, Brussels
Speaker: Mr. Liu Xu, Director, Department of International Trade, Institute for International Economic Research, The National Development and Reform Commission of the People’s Republic of China
Chair: Dr Willem van der Geest, Director, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
The unprecedented economic growth of the People’s Republic of China is changing how the country views itself and how East Asia and the rest of the world view China. Offering labour and markets, China is rapidly becoming the workshop of the world. Its approach to slowly liberalising trade and services, coupled with its recent accession into the WTO, may indicate a new path for developing countries.
The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) of the People’s Republic of China is a macro-economic regulatory department, of the State Council, with a mandate to develop national economic strategies, long term economic plans, annual plans, and to report on the national economy and social development to the National People's Congress. The NDRC Academy functions as the research branch of the Commission, tasked with undertaking analysis and research relating to the overall mission of the NDRC. The European Institute for Asian Studies is pleased to welcome a delegation from the Academy to its premises. The NDRC delegation will be headed by Mr. Liu Xu, Director of the International Trade Department at the Institute for International Economic Research who will be accompanied by Dr. Zhang Anyuan, Dr. Ma Qiang and Mr. Zhang Zheren, all of the Institute for International Economic Research of the NDRC.
At the meeting, Mr. Liu Xu made a presentation on Chinese Economic Development and examine its impact on a global scale. Following this, members of the audience were invited to exchange views with the delegation head on his presentation and discuss current issues and scenarios for the future of economic relations between China and the rest of the world.
Photos of the Event
Speaker: Mr. Liu Xu, Director, Department of International Trade, Institute for International Economic Research, The National Development and Reform Commission of the People’s Republic of ChinaChair: Dr Willem van der Geest, Director, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
The unprecedented economic growth of the People’s Republic of China is changing how the country views itself and how East Asia and the rest of the world view China. Offering labour and markets, China is rapidly becoming the workshop of the world. Its approach to slowly liberalising trade and services, coupled with its recent accession into the WTO, may indicate a new path for developing countries.
The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) of the People’s Republic of China is a macro-economic regulatory department, of the State Council, with a mandate to develop national economic strategies, long term economic plans, annual plans, and to report on the national economy and social development to the National People's Congress. The NDRC Academy functions as the research branch of the Commission, tasked with undertaking analysis and research relating to the overall mission of the NDRC. The European Institute for Asian Studies is pleased to welcome a delegation from the Academy to its premises. The NDRC delegation will be headed by Mr. Liu Xu, Director of the International Trade Department at the Institute for International Economic Research who will be accompanied by Dr. Zhang Anyuan, Dr. Ma Qiang and Mr. Zhang Zheren, all of the Institute for International Economic Research of the NDRC.
At the meeting, Mr. Liu Xu made a presentation on Chinese Economic Development and examine its impact on a global scale. Following this, members of the audience were invited to exchange views with the delegation head on his presentation and discuss current issues and scenarios for the future of economic relations between China and the rest of the world.
Photos of the Event
18 October 2005: Venue: 41-43 Birkbeck College, Gordon Square, London, UK
20 October: Hotel Leopold, 35 rue du Luxembourg, 1040 Brussels, Belgium
The European Institute for Asian Studies and the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, in collaboration with the European Alliance for Asian Studies, are organising an annual high-level Conference entitled “Taiwan-China Cross-Strait Relations: What Role for the EU?” to take place in London on October 18th and in Brussels on October 20th, 2005. The Conference will assemble leading policymakers, scholars and civil society representatives from the EU, Taiwan and the People’s Republic of China to discuss current events and trends affecting the evolution of mutual relations.
The European Alliance for Asian Studies is pleased to welcome a most distinguished gathering of speakers on the first day of the Conference in London on October 18th. Political and security issues relating to cross-strait tensions will be highlighted in the morning sessions including the recent debate surrounding the EU arms embargo on China, changing perceptions of U.S. strategic interests in Taiwan and perceptions of the Chinese military from a regional security perspective. Featured topics from the afternoon session will address economic issues with a focus on investment, amongst which, an analysis of the objectives and modalities of Chinese Investment into the EU and a look at the role of FDI in Chinese regional economic development.
On the 20th of October, the Conference will convene in Brussels at a high-profile gathering. To complement the London meeting, the session in Brussels will begin with an academic summary of the meeting in London and then proceed to address a new array of topical issues. The outlook for EU-China-Taiwan trading relations, China-Taiwan economic integration and contrasting economic perspectives of China and Taiwan will feature amongst the topics discussed in the morning, as well presentations on good governance and legitimacy in China and Taiwan. The last session of the Conference will be entirely devoted to the future of EU-China-Taiwan relations.
Related documents:
Presentation: Taiwan’s Defense and Engagement Strategy by Pr Ming-Yen TSAI (pdf)
Objectives and Modalities of Chinese Investment into the EU by Dr. Margot Schüller (ppt)
Further Information:
Information Package (pdf)
Photos of the Event
20 October: Hotel Leopold, 35 rue du Luxembourg, 1040 Brussels, Belgium
The European Institute for Asian Studies and the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, in collaboration with the European Alliance for Asian Studies, are organising an annual high-level Conference entitled “Taiwan-China Cross-Strait Relations: What Role for the EU?” to take place in London on October 18th and in Brussels on October 20th, 2005. The Conference will assemble leading policymakers, scholars and civil society representatives from the EU, Taiwan and the People’s Republic of China to discuss current events and trends affecting the evolution of mutual relations.The European Alliance for Asian Studies is pleased to welcome a most distinguished gathering of speakers on the first day of the Conference in London on October 18th. Political and security issues relating to cross-strait tensions will be highlighted in the morning sessions including the recent debate surrounding the EU arms embargo on China, changing perceptions of U.S. strategic interests in Taiwan and perceptions of the Chinese military from a regional security perspective. Featured topics from the afternoon session will address economic issues with a focus on investment, amongst which, an analysis of the objectives and modalities of Chinese Investment into the EU and a look at the role of FDI in Chinese regional economic development.On the 20th of October, the Conference will convene in Brussels at a high-profile gathering. To complement the London meeting, the session in Brussels will begin with an academic summary of the meeting in London and then proceed to address a new array of topical issues. The outlook for EU-China-Taiwan trading relations, China-Taiwan economic integration and contrasting economic perspectives of China and Taiwan will feature amongst the topics discussed in the morning, as well presentations on good governance and legitimacy in China and Taiwan. The last session of the Conference will be entirely devoted to the future of EU-China-Taiwan relations. Related documents:
Presentation: Taiwan’s Defense and Engagement Strategy by Pr Ming-Yen TSAI (pdf)
Objectives and Modalities of Chinese Investment into the EU by Dr. Margot Schüller (ppt)
Further Information:
Information Package (pdf)
Photos of the Event
5 – 7 October 2005
Bertelsmann Stiftung, Berlin, Germany
A High Level international conference on Political Management of Transformation Enhancing Governance Capacity.
Dr Willem van der Geest, EIAS director, will contribute to two sessions; 'Market Economy First? Dealing with growing participatory demands' and 'Strategic Perspectives - Special Sessions Findings'.
Conference's programme
Bertelsmann Stiftung, Berlin, Germany
A High Level international conference on Political Management of Transformation Enhancing Governance Capacity.
Dr Willem van der Geest, EIAS director, will contribute to two sessions; 'Market Economy First? Dealing with growing participatory demands' and 'Strategic Perspectives - Special Sessions Findings'.
Conference's programme
EIAS Luncheon Briefing: Opportunities and Challenges of Mekong Sub-Regional Integration: Focus on Cambodia and Lao PDR
6 October, 2005, EIAS, Brussels
Speaker: Mr. Ian C. Porter, Country Director, South East Asia, East Asia and Pacific Region, World Bank
Chair: Dr Sebastian Bersick, Research Fellow, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
The countries of the Mekong Sub-Region have witnessed strong recent growth performances - but significant diversities remain. Social indicators vary among the countries and in some instances growth has not yielded commensurate social improvements. Poverty reduction has also been uneven.
While there are opportunities presented by the diversity among the countries, strong growth performance, expanded and more open trade, and natural resource endowments, there are significant challenges: How to overcome knowledge and income gaps? How to ensure that benefits are shared equally among countries? How to manage the rich natural resources of the region so that they can provide long term benefits to the millions of people who depend on them for their livelihoods?
This briefing will explore the opportunities and challenges of assisting the Mekong Sub-Regional countries in realizing stronger economic growth and a more integrated future. The European Institute for Asian Studies has the pleasure to welcome Mr. Ian Porter, World Bank Director for the South East Asia, to give an overview of the World Bank’s initiatives in supporting regional integration efforts in the Mekong Sub-Region, in particular, how to assist the lower income countries of the sub-region benefit from greater integration and further reduce poverty.
Furthermore, the presentation will discuss the current initiatives and stakeholders supporting regional integration efforts, to be followed by discussion.
Speaker: Mr. Ian C. Porter, Country Director, South East Asia, East Asia and Pacific Region, World Bank
Chair: Dr Sebastian Bersick, Research Fellow, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
The countries of the Mekong Sub-Region have witnessed strong recent growth performances - but significant diversities remain. Social indicators vary among the countries and in some instances growth has not yielded commensurate social improvements. Poverty reduction has also been uneven.
While there are opportunities presented by the diversity among the countries, strong growth performance, expanded and more open trade, and natural resource endowments, there are significant challenges: How to overcome knowledge and income gaps? How to ensure that benefits are shared equally among countries? How to manage the rich natural resources of the region so that they can provide long term benefits to the millions of people who depend on them for their livelihoods?
This briefing will explore the opportunities and challenges of assisting the Mekong Sub-Regional countries in realizing stronger economic growth and a more integrated future. The European Institute for Asian Studies has the pleasure to welcome Mr. Ian Porter, World Bank Director for the South East Asia, to give an overview of the World Bank’s initiatives in supporting regional integration efforts in the Mekong Sub-Region, in particular, how to assist the lower income countries of the sub-region benefit from greater integration and further reduce poverty.
Furthermore, the presentation will discuss the current initiatives and stakeholders supporting regional integration efforts, to be followed by discussion.
4 October 2005 (Registration 9:30) 10:00 - 12:00
European Parliament, Brussels
EIAS in collaboration with the office of Mrs Glenys Kinnock MEP will be organising a Special Briefing on the current situation in Burma at the European Parliament. (for further updates please consult the EIAS website) It is expected that Etta Rosales MP from the Philippines and John Ungphakorn MP from Thailand will be speaking at the occasion.
Since the Union of Myanmar/Burma joined the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 1997, the Association has gently pushed for democratisation and national reconciliation through ‘constructive engagement’– with mixed results. Burma’s recent decision to defer its forthcoming chairmanship of ASEAN has averted diplomatic strain, yet the question of creating a new way forward for Burma, ASEAN and the rest of the world remains.
The ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Myanmar Caucus (AIPMC) is a body of legislators established across national and party lines to examine methods for ASEAN to advance the promotion of democracy and reconciliation in Burma.
The European Institute for Asian Studies, in collaboration with Glenys Kinnock MEP, is honoured to welcome a distinguished delegation from AIPMC comprising of the Hon. Mohd Zaid Bin Ibrahim, MP from Malaysia and President of AIPMC and the Hon. Senator Jon Ungphakorn, AIPMC Steering Committee member from Thailand to join a Special Panel Discussion in the European Parliament on 4 October, 2005.
During the Panel Discussion, the Parliamentarians from the AIPMC Delegation introduced and explained the work of the AIPMC, discussing future plans for possible cooperation. They assessed the implications of the Burma situation upon ASEAN and looked into innovative ways of bringing about a solution to the present stalemate over Burma which adversely affects EU-ASEAN relations and ASEAN’s long-term political and economic interests.
Mr. Harn Yawnghwe, of the Euro-Burma Office, also took part in the Panel and portray the current political and social situation, the National Convention and future plan of Burma. The Special Panel was co-chaired by Glenys Kinnock, MEP and Dr. Willem van der Geest, Director of the European Institute for Asian Studies.
The Invitation
Photos of the Event
European Parliament, Brussels
EIAS in collaboration with the office of Mrs Glenys Kinnock MEP will be organising a Special Briefing on the current situation in Burma at the European Parliament. (for further updates please consult the EIAS website) It is expected that Etta Rosales MP from the Philippines and John Ungphakorn MP from Thailand will be speaking at the occasion.
Since the Union of Myanmar/Burma joined the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 1997, the Association has gently pushed for democratisation and national reconciliation through ‘constructive engagement’– with mixed results. Burma’s recent decision to defer its forthcoming chairmanship of ASEAN has averted diplomatic strain, yet the question of creating a new way forward for Burma, ASEAN and the rest of the world remains.
The ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Myanmar Caucus (AIPMC) is a body of legislators established across national and party lines to examine methods for ASEAN to advance the promotion of democracy and reconciliation in Burma.
The European Institute for Asian Studies, in collaboration with Glenys Kinnock MEP, is honoured to welcome a distinguished delegation from AIPMC comprising of the Hon. Mohd Zaid Bin Ibrahim, MP from Malaysia and President of AIPMC and the Hon. Senator Jon Ungphakorn, AIPMC Steering Committee member from Thailand to join a Special Panel Discussion in the European Parliament on 4 October, 2005.
During the Panel Discussion, the Parliamentarians from the AIPMC Delegation introduced and explained the work of the AIPMC, discussing future plans for possible cooperation. They assessed the implications of the Burma situation upon ASEAN and looked into innovative ways of bringing about a solution to the present stalemate over Burma which adversely affects EU-ASEAN relations and ASEAN’s long-term political and economic interests.
Mr. Harn Yawnghwe, of the Euro-Burma Office, also took part in the Panel and portray the current political and social situation, the National Convention and future plan of Burma. The Special Panel was co-chaired by Glenys Kinnock, MEP and Dr. Willem van der Geest, Director of the European Institute for Asian Studies.
The Invitation
Photos of the Event
28 September, 2005
European Business School, London
European Business School, London will be holding the 2005 Jean Monnet Memorial Lecture on 28th September, specifically on the subject of India. Dr Willem van der Geest, Director EIAS has been invitated to speak as a member of the distinguished panel.
With India's growth prospects in a globalising world set to hit around 8% from the currrent 6.5% in the near future, projecting it to become the third largest economy after the US and China, "India and Globalisation" will be the theme of the Lecture.
The Jean Monnet Memorial Lecture provides business leaders with an opportunity to hear prominent global business people and public figures from a broad spectrum of backgrounds able to speak with authority and knowledge on issues of current and future importance to world business and the economy. The attendance of 400+ carefully selected guests per lecture, including senior business executives from leading international companies and government agencies testifies to the high reputation of the Jean Monnet Memorial Lecture series.
The Memorial lecture takes the format of the BBC's Question Time, will commence at 6:30pm for approximately an hour, followed by a reception in Herringham Hall after which the Chief Executive of Regent’s College hosts an informal private supper for our speakers and selected guests. Those wishing to attend, please contact the EBS, London.
List of other lecturers (pdf)
European Business School, London
European Business School, London will be holding the 2005 Jean Monnet Memorial Lecture on 28th September, specifically on the subject of India. Dr Willem van der Geest, Director EIAS has been invitated to speak as a member of the distinguished panel.
With India's growth prospects in a globalising world set to hit around 8% from the currrent 6.5% in the near future, projecting it to become the third largest economy after the US and China, "India and Globalisation" will be the theme of the Lecture.
The Jean Monnet Memorial Lecture provides business leaders with an opportunity to hear prominent global business people and public figures from a broad spectrum of backgrounds able to speak with authority and knowledge on issues of current and future importance to world business and the economy. The attendance of 400+ carefully selected guests per lecture, including senior business executives from leading international companies and government agencies testifies to the high reputation of the Jean Monnet Memorial Lecture series.
The Memorial lecture takes the format of the BBC's Question Time, will commence at 6:30pm for approximately an hour, followed by a reception in Herringham Hall after which the Chief Executive of Regent’s College hosts an informal private supper for our speakers and selected guests. Those wishing to attend, please contact the EBS, London.
List of other lecturers (pdf)
21 September 2005
EIAS, Brussels
We met with representatives of the DPRK's Foreign Ministry led by Kim Chun Guk, Director of the European Department, for an informal discussion.
Issues discussed included the Six Party Talks, regional cooperation in Europe and East Asia, and relations with PR China.
Left to Right:
Dr Willem van der Geest, EIAS Director, Yong Ho Thae, Counsellor, DPRK Embassy, London, Kim Chun Guk, Director, European Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, DPRK, Kim Yong II, Researcher, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, DPRK, Dr Sebastian Bersick, EIAS Research Fellow.
Photos of the Event
EIAS, Brussels
We met with representatives of the DPRK's Foreign Ministry led by Kim Chun Guk, Director of the European Department, for an informal discussion.
Issues discussed included the Six Party Talks, regional cooperation in Europe and East Asia, and relations with PR China.
Left to Right:
Dr Willem van der Geest, EIAS Director, Yong Ho Thae, Counsellor, DPRK Embassy, London, Kim Chun Guk, Director, European Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, DPRK, Kim Yong II, Researcher, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, DPRK, Dr Sebastian Bersick, EIAS Research Fellow.
Photos of the Event
16 - 17 September 2005
Japanese - German Centre, Berlin, Germany
This scientific conference has been organised by the German Association for Asian Studies. Dr Sebastian Bersick, EIAS Research Fellow, will present a paper entitled "The Value of Regional Cooperation: The example of South East Asia and ASEAN. In addition Dr Bersick will act as a discussant in a wokshop on security.
Link to the German Association For Asian Studies' website
Japanese - German Centre, Berlin, Germany
This scientific conference has been organised by the German Association for Asian Studies. Dr Sebastian Bersick, EIAS Research Fellow, will present a paper entitled "The Value of Regional Cooperation: The example of South East Asia and ASEAN. In addition Dr Bersick will act as a discussant in a wokshop on security.
Link to the German Association For Asian Studies' website
14 - 15 September 2005,
University of Helsinki, Finland
An International Conference on Achievements and Possibilities of the Asia-Europe Meeting, will be opened by Markus Lyra, Under Secretary of State, ASEM Senior Official , from the Finnish Foreign Ministry.
Dr Sebastian Bersick, EIAS Research Fellow, will present a paper, "The ASEM Added Value: Showcasing European Soft Power in the first session of this event.
University of Helsinki, Finland
An International Conference on Achievements and Possibilities of the Asia-Europe Meeting, will be opened by Markus Lyra, Under Secretary of State, ASEM Senior Official , from the Finnish Foreign Ministry.
Dr Sebastian Bersick, EIAS Research Fellow, will present a paper, "The ASEM Added Value: Showcasing European Soft Power in the first session of this event.
31 August & 1 September 2005
Hotel Nikko, Fukuoka, Japan
Theme: Envisioning an "East Asian Community"
Co-sponsored by: Fukuoka Prefecture, Fukuoka City, the Organizing Committee of the Asian International Forum in Fukuoka
Distinguished representatives of think tanks in Asia, EU and US gathered at the 5th Asian International Forum in Fukuoka. At this forum economic experts of leading think tanks involved in governmental policymaking in their respective countries/regions discussed Asia’s present and future developments.
The fifth Asian International Forum in Fukuoka, Japan (August 31-Sept 1, 2005) focused on the forthcoming East Asia Summit (EAS) in Kuala Lumpur under the title ‘Envisioning an East Asian Community’. Speakers and participants at the Forum felt that the forthcoming Kuala Lumpur East Asian Summit meeting was bound to be a major milestone in the dynamic process of East Asian regional cooperation. In terms of its importance, the meeting was perceived to be of equal importance to the launching of the Asia-Europe Meeting process (ASEM) in Bangkok 1996.
It was a widely-held perception that the Summit would probably, though not certainly, lead to the creation of an East Asian Community. Several key-issues for the agenda of the Summit were discussed, in particular, the challenges and obstacles which East Asian leaders would need to address, including
* the overall vision for the Community and its long-term and interim goals,
* the issue of its Membership,
* the issue of leadership,
* the diversity within the region,
* the historical legacies dividing East Asian nations and peoples, as well as
* immediate first steps to be agreed in Kuala Lumpur.
Furthermore, the discussion also focused on the question whether the East Asian Community would be distinct from ASEAN and how to avoid duplication and overlap.
Speakers from leading East and South East Asian think tanks, along with Japanese scholars from Tokyo and Fukuoka, were complemented by one speaker from the US, Dr Claude Barfield from the American Enterprise Institute, as well as one from the EU, Dr Willem van der Geest, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels.
Related Documents:
Conference's programme (pdf)
The East Asian Summit: towards ever closer cooperation? Abstracts by Dr Van Der Geest's Presentation (pdf)
A list of the participating think tanks may be found on the Prefecture of Fukuoka's Official Website. as well as the Japanese and English abstracts of the presentations and the summing-up Statement of the participants of the 5th Asian International Forum. For more information about presentations visit the Conference’s official website, including also the abstract of Dr van der Geest’s presentation at Fukuoka, "The East Asian Summit - towards ever closer cooperation? -- an EU perspective". Download the Abstract (pdf)
Participating Think Tanks:
China: WANG Tongsan, Ph.D., Institute of Quantitative & Technical Economics (IQTE), Chinese Academy of Social SciencesCASS)
EU: Willem van der GEEST, Ph.D., European Institute for Asian Studies (EIAS)
Hong Kong: Simon Xu Hui SHEN, Hong Kong Policy Research Institute (HKPRI)
Indonesia: Yose Rizal DAMURI, Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)
Japan: Kazuhito YAMASHITA, Economic and Research Institute of Economy, Trade and Industry (RIETI)
Korea: Chang Jae LEE, Ph.D., Center for Northeast Asian Economic Cooperation (CNAEC), Korea Institute for International Economic Policy (KIEP)
Malaysia: Stephen Leong, Ph.D., Assistant Director General, Institute of Strategic and International Studies Malaysia(ISIS)
Philippines: Josef T. YAP, Ph. D., Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS)
Singapore: Rahul SEN, Ph. D., Institute of Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS)
Taiwan: David S. HONG, Ph.D., Taiwan Institute of Economic Research (TIER)
Thailand: Nipon POAPONGSAKORN, Ph. D., Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI)
Vietnam: VU Xuan Nguyet Hong, Central Institute for Economic Management (CIEM)
Coordinator: Akihiko SHINOZAKI, Ph.D., Professor of Kyushu University and Kazushi SHIMIZU, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Kyushu University
Hotel Nikko, Fukuoka, Japan
Theme: Envisioning an "East Asian Community"
Co-sponsored by: Fukuoka Prefecture, Fukuoka City, the Organizing Committee of the Asian International Forum in Fukuoka
Distinguished representatives of think tanks in Asia, EU and US gathered at the 5th Asian International Forum in Fukuoka. At this forum economic experts of leading think tanks involved in governmental policymaking in their respective countries/regions discussed Asia’s present and future developments.
The fifth Asian International Forum in Fukuoka, Japan (August 31-Sept 1, 2005) focused on the forthcoming East Asia Summit (EAS) in Kuala Lumpur under the title ‘Envisioning an East Asian Community’. Speakers and participants at the Forum felt that the forthcoming Kuala Lumpur East Asian Summit meeting was bound to be a major milestone in the dynamic process of East Asian regional cooperation. In terms of its importance, the meeting was perceived to be of equal importance to the launching of the Asia-Europe Meeting process (ASEM) in Bangkok 1996.
It was a widely-held perception that the Summit would probably, though not certainly, lead to the creation of an East Asian Community. Several key-issues for the agenda of the Summit were discussed, in particular, the challenges and obstacles which East Asian leaders would need to address, including
* the overall vision for the Community and its long-term and interim goals,
* the issue of its Membership,
* the issue of leadership,
* the diversity within the region,
* the historical legacies dividing East Asian nations and peoples, as well as
* immediate first steps to be agreed in Kuala Lumpur.
Furthermore, the discussion also focused on the question whether the East Asian Community would be distinct from ASEAN and how to avoid duplication and overlap.
Speakers from leading East and South East Asian think tanks, along with Japanese scholars from Tokyo and Fukuoka, were complemented by one speaker from the US, Dr Claude Barfield from the American Enterprise Institute, as well as one from the EU, Dr Willem van der Geest, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels.
Related Documents:
Conference's programme (pdf)
The East Asian Summit: towards ever closer cooperation? Abstracts by Dr Van Der Geest's Presentation (pdf)
A list of the participating think tanks may be found on the Prefecture of Fukuoka's Official Website. as well as the Japanese and English abstracts of the presentations and the summing-up Statement of the participants of the 5th Asian International Forum. For more information about presentations visit the Conference’s official website, including also the abstract of Dr van der Geest’s presentation at Fukuoka, "The East Asian Summit - towards ever closer cooperation? -- an EU perspective". Download the Abstract (pdf)
Participating Think Tanks:
China: WANG Tongsan, Ph.D., Institute of Quantitative & Technical Economics (IQTE), Chinese Academy of Social SciencesCASS)
EU: Willem van der GEEST, Ph.D., European Institute for Asian Studies (EIAS)
Hong Kong: Simon Xu Hui SHEN, Hong Kong Policy Research Institute (HKPRI)
Indonesia: Yose Rizal DAMURI, Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)
Japan: Kazuhito YAMASHITA, Economic and Research Institute of Economy, Trade and Industry (RIETI)
Korea: Chang Jae LEE, Ph.D., Center for Northeast Asian Economic Cooperation (CNAEC), Korea Institute for International Economic Policy (KIEP)
Malaysia: Stephen Leong, Ph.D., Assistant Director General, Institute of Strategic and International Studies Malaysia(ISIS)
Philippines: Josef T. YAP, Ph. D., Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS)
Singapore: Rahul SEN, Ph. D., Institute of Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS)
Taiwan: David S. HONG, Ph.D., Taiwan Institute of Economic Research (TIER)
Thailand: Nipon POAPONGSAKORN, Ph. D., Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI)
Vietnam: VU Xuan Nguyet Hong, Central Institute for Economic Management (CIEM)
Coordinator: Akihiko SHINOZAKI, Ph.D., Professor of Kyushu University and Kazushi SHIMIZU, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Kyushu University
20 - 24 August 2005
Shanghai Exhibition Centre, Shanghai, China
Theme: The Future of Asia
Co-Organised by The International Institute for Asian Studies and the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences.
Dr. Sebastian Bersick organised and chaired a panel on 'Multi-regionalism and Asian-European Affairs' on behalf of the European Alliance for Asian Studies. The panel focused on the institutionalization of intraregional and interregional cooperation in the international system and, in particular, on the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) process.
The papers analysed four empirical examples of the politics of interregional relations thereby focusing both on the intraregional and interregional level of cooperation.
The panel brought together distinguished experts from Europe, North America and South America who discussed the effects of intraregional cooperation on the behavior of state actors. Do Asian-European affairs and its inherent model of an international system consisting of multiple regional actors constitute the contours of a new multi-regional world order? What then is the role of the EU, East Asia, India and of the Americas?
Shanghai Exhibition Centre, Shanghai, China
Theme: The Future of Asia
Co-Organised by The International Institute for Asian Studies and the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences.
Dr. Sebastian Bersick organised and chaired a panel on 'Multi-regionalism and Asian-European Affairs' on behalf of the European Alliance for Asian Studies. The panel focused on the institutionalization of intraregional and interregional cooperation in the international system and, in particular, on the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) process.
The papers analysed four empirical examples of the politics of interregional relations thereby focusing both on the intraregional and interregional level of cooperation.
The panel brought together distinguished experts from Europe, North America and South America who discussed the effects of intraregional cooperation on the behavior of state actors. Do Asian-European affairs and its inherent model of an international system consisting of multiple regional actors constitute the contours of a new multi-regional world order? What then is the role of the EU, East Asia, India and of the Americas?
28 July 2005
European Commission, Brussels
The Association of Former Trainees of the European Union, ADEK International’s main aim is to allow current and former stagiaires to engage with each other and to keep in touch with the European institutions for which they worked after this shared and fulfilling experience.
This conference focuses on the relations between the European Union and the emergent economic powers of Asia, mainly focusing in China and India, and included two panels: “The development of China and India in the context of globalization” and “Europe and the competition challenges posed by the two emerging powers of Asia.
Dr Willem van der Geest gave a presentaion at the latter panel.
European Commission, Brussels
The Association of Former Trainees of the European Union, ADEK International’s main aim is to allow current and former stagiaires to engage with each other and to keep in touch with the European institutions for which they worked after this shared and fulfilling experience.
This conference focuses on the relations between the European Union and the emergent economic powers of Asia, mainly focusing in China and India, and included two panels: “The development of China and India in the context of globalization” and “Europe and the competition challenges posed by the two emerging powers of Asia.
Dr Willem van der Geest gave a presentaion at the latter panel.
26 July 2005
EIAS hosted an informal briefing for a group of students from Hong Kong University. After a presentation on the institute, students were invited to discuss EU -Asian relations with Dick Gupwell, EIAs Secretary General and Dr Willem van der Geest, EIAS Director
EIAS hosted an informal briefing for a group of students from Hong Kong University. After a presentation on the institute, students were invited to discuss EU -Asian relations with Dick Gupwell, EIAs Secretary General and Dr Willem van der Geest, EIAS Director Workshop: Economics and Politics of East Asian Co-operation and China's Role in the Process: Opportunities and Challenges
20 June 2005
The EIAS-Nomisma Study Project commissioned by the EU Commission on the Economics and Politics of East Asian Co-operation and China's Role in the Process: Opportunities and Challenges for the EU is proceeding very well and is entering it final stage.
Using a multi-disciplinary approach, EIAS and Nomisma brought together a Team of fifteen renowned experts from Europe, East Asia and the United States to collaborate on tackling all issues with respect to this major project which serves to reassess Europe’s strategic interests in East Asia and to provide information on the region’s likely development in economic, political, security and socio-cultural terms, with a special focus on intra-regional co-operation and, in particular, China’s role.
Over the past several months Experts carried out interviews with officials, policy-makers and experts from research institutions, academia and civil society, across Europe, East Asia and the United States and undertook in-depth analysis and research.
In total, more than 100 expert interviews have been carried out in over 16 countries. The Focus-Group Questionnaire has been a crucial and effective tool in this project with over 80 questionnaires providing valuable input.
In the framework of the study the EIAS convened a two-day Brainstorming Workshop on 16 and 17 June 2005. The Workshop was held at the European Commission's Charlemagne Building in Brussels. This two-day event brought together the study Team of Experts and Commission and Council officials and the invited Chairpersons of the European Parliament's delegations for relations with Asia.
During the Workshop the Team of Experts who throughout the study contributed input and conducted interviews around the world, were given a unique opportunity to present their findings to Commission, Council, and Parliament officials and have in depth discussions and debates.
A set of recommendations on Economic, Political, Security and Socio-Cultural issues illustrating the findings of an objective assessment of EU policies towards East Asia, as well as the implementation and effectiveness of these policies, were presented and discussed in depth.
The Workshop's output and conclusions that were drawn from discussions will serve to help shape the Final Report and Recommendations to be submitted to the EU Commission on 22 July 2005.
Brainstorming Workshop Programme
The EIAS-Nomisma Study Project commissioned by the EU Commission on the Economics and Politics of East Asian Co-operation and China's Role in the Process: Opportunities and Challenges for the EU is proceeding very well and is entering it final stage.
Using a multi-disciplinary approach, EIAS and Nomisma brought together a Team of fifteen renowned experts from Europe, East Asia and the United States to collaborate on tackling all issues with respect to this major project which serves to reassess Europe’s strategic interests in East Asia and to provide information on the region’s likely development in economic, political, security and socio-cultural terms, with a special focus on intra-regional co-operation and, in particular, China’s role.
Over the past several months Experts carried out interviews with officials, policy-makers and experts from research institutions, academia and civil society, across Europe, East Asia and the United States and undertook in-depth analysis and research.
In total, more than 100 expert interviews have been carried out in over 16 countries. The Focus-Group Questionnaire has been a crucial and effective tool in this project with over 80 questionnaires providing valuable input.
In the framework of the study the EIAS convened a two-day Brainstorming Workshop on 16 and 17 June 2005. The Workshop was held at the European Commission's Charlemagne Building in Brussels. This two-day event brought together the study Team of Experts and Commission and Council officials and the invited Chairpersons of the European Parliament's delegations for relations with Asia.
During the Workshop the Team of Experts who throughout the study contributed input and conducted interviews around the world, were given a unique opportunity to present their findings to Commission, Council, and Parliament officials and have in depth discussions and debates. A set of recommendations on Economic, Political, Security and Socio-Cultural issues illustrating the findings of an objective assessment of EU policies towards East Asia, as well as the implementation and effectiveness of these policies, were presented and discussed in depth.
The Workshop's output and conclusions that were drawn from discussions will serve to help shape the Final Report and Recommendations to be submitted to the EU Commission on 22 July 2005.
Brainstorming Workshop Programme
10 June, 2005
Center for Defence Information, Brussels
Dr Bersick gave a lecture on the arms embargo during the annual board meeting of the CDI.
Center for Defence Information, Brussels
Dr Bersick gave a lecture on the arms embargo during the annual board meeting of the CDI.
EU-ASIA Inter-Regionalism.
2 - 4 June, 2005
Howard Plaza Hotel, Taipei, Taiwan
6 - 8 June, 2005
Clingendael, Netherlands Institute for International Relations in The Hague
EU-ASIA Inter-Regionalism I
Dr. Sebastian Bersick will present a paper on "The EU Constitution and its Impact on the Politics of Interregional Relations: Strengthening Europe's Role in Asia?" at the "International Symposium on the EU Constitutional Treaty and EU's Global role", organised by the European Union Research Forum, Institute of International Relations, National Chengchi University, Taipei. Dr. Bersick will also give a talk at the Research and Planning Committee of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and at the Foundation on International and Cross-Strait Studies.
Download Dr Bersick's Presentation (pdf)
EU-ASIA Inter-Regionalism II
6-8 June, Clingendael, Netherlands Institute for International Relations in The Hague
On 6 June Dr. Sebastian Bersick will give a lecture and a simulation on "The Future of the ASEM Dialogue" within the framework of a Course in Strategic Planning and Foreign Policy for Senior Diplomats from Indonesia.
On 8 June Dr. Willem van der Geest will do a case study workshop on the China-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement to the same group of Senior Diplomats.
Related documents:
Presentation: The EU Constitution and its Impact on the Politics of Interregional Relations: Strengthening Europe’s Role in Asia by Dr Sebastain Bersick.
2 - 4 June, 2005
Howard Plaza Hotel, Taipei, Taiwan
6 - 8 June, 2005
Clingendael, Netherlands Institute for International Relations in The Hague
EU-ASIA Inter-Regionalism I
Dr. Sebastian Bersick will present a paper on "The EU Constitution and its Impact on the Politics of Interregional Relations: Strengthening Europe's Role in Asia?" at the "International Symposium on the EU Constitutional Treaty and EU's Global role", organised by the European Union Research Forum, Institute of International Relations, National Chengchi University, Taipei. Dr. Bersick will also give a talk at the Research and Planning Committee of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and at the Foundation on International and Cross-Strait Studies.
Download Dr Bersick's Presentation (pdf)
EU-ASIA Inter-Regionalism II
6-8 June, Clingendael, Netherlands Institute for International Relations in The Hague
On 6 June Dr. Sebastian Bersick will give a lecture and a simulation on "The Future of the ASEM Dialogue" within the framework of a Course in Strategic Planning and Foreign Policy for Senior Diplomats from Indonesia.
On 8 June Dr. Willem van der Geest will do a case study workshop on the China-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement to the same group of Senior Diplomats.
Related documents:
Presentation: The EU Constitution and its Impact on the Politics of Interregional Relations: Strengthening Europe’s Role in Asia by Dr Sebastain Bersick.
24 May 2005, EIAS, Brussels
Speaker: Mr. Praful Patel, Regional Vice President, South Asia Region, World Bank
Chair: Mr. Malcolm Subhan, vice-Chair, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
For the past decade, South Asia has been the second fastest-growing region in the world, after East Asia, with an average annual growth rate of 5.3 percent. However, the region remains one of the most disadvantaged in the world: more than 40 percent of its 1.4 billion people live on less than one dollar a day, making South Asia home to nearly half of the world's poor.
In December 2004, the deadly Asian tsunami reached the shores of South Asia, leaving behind a trail of destruction that has impacted the region in more ways than one. Today talk of ‘building back better’ is high on the agenda, with debate focusing on how to further develop and improve the life and livelihoods of those left behind.
This meeting explored the means by which development assistance can be scaled up in South Asia. What are the issues and trade-offs in targeting aid to regions with better governance, where it may be used more effectively? Or in targeting the poorest regions or other subnational entities, where governance is often weakest?
The European Institute for Asian Studies has the pleasure to welcome Mr. Praful Patel, Regional Vice President for the South Asia Region, World Bank, to give an overview of World Bank efforts to provide increased assistance in different countries in South Asia.
Related Documents:
Presentation: South Asia and the World Bank by Mr Praful Patel (pdf)
Photos of the Event
Speaker: Mr. Praful Patel, Regional Vice President, South Asia Region, World BankChair: Mr. Malcolm Subhan, vice-Chair, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
For the past decade, South Asia has been the second fastest-growing region in the world, after East Asia, with an average annual growth rate of 5.3 percent. However, the region remains one of the most disadvantaged in the world: more than 40 percent of its 1.4 billion people live on less than one dollar a day, making South Asia home to nearly half of the world's poor.
In December 2004, the deadly Asian tsunami reached the shores of South Asia, leaving behind a trail of destruction that has impacted the region in more ways than one. Today talk of ‘building back better’ is high on the agenda, with debate focusing on how to further develop and improve the life and livelihoods of those left behind.
This meeting explored the means by which development assistance can be scaled up in South Asia. What are the issues and trade-offs in targeting aid to regions with better governance, where it may be used more effectively? Or in targeting the poorest regions or other subnational entities, where governance is often weakest?
The European Institute for Asian Studies has the pleasure to welcome Mr. Praful Patel, Regional Vice President for the South Asia Region, World Bank, to give an overview of World Bank efforts to provide increased assistance in different countries in South Asia.
Related Documents:
Presentation: South Asia and the World Bank by Mr Praful Patel (pdf)
Photos of the Event
28 April, 2005, Fondation Universitaire, Brussels
Speakers:
Maj. Gen. (retd) Sardar Muhammed Anwar Khan, President of the State of Azad Jammu and Kashmir
Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry, Leader of the Opposition of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Assembly
Mr John Cushnahan, Former MEP and EIAS Board Member
Ambassador Tomas Kowlowski, Head of Asia Task Force, EU Council
On 18 April 2005, Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh met with President General Pervez Musharraf of Pakistan at a summit in New Delhi. Conscious of the historic opportunity created by the improved environment in relations and the overwhelming desire of the peoples of the two countries for durable peace, the two leaders held substantive talks.
In this spirit the issue of Jammu and Kashmir was addressed and the leaders agreed to continue these discussions in a sincere and purposeful and forward-looking manner for a final settlement.
In light of these positive developments and in the context of the visit to Brussels of Maj. Gen. (retd) Sardar Muhammed Anwar Khan, President of the State of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry, Leader of the Opposition of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, EIAS is convened a Round Table meeting entitled Kashmir - What Role for the EU?
Photos of the Event
Speakers:Maj. Gen. (retd) Sardar Muhammed Anwar Khan, President of the State of Azad Jammu and Kashmir
Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry, Leader of the Opposition of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Assembly
Mr John Cushnahan, Former MEP and EIAS Board Member
Ambassador Tomas Kowlowski, Head of Asia Task Force, EU Council
On 18 April 2005, Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh met with President General Pervez Musharraf of Pakistan at a summit in New Delhi. Conscious of the historic opportunity created by the improved environment in relations and the overwhelming desire of the peoples of the two countries for durable peace, the two leaders held substantive talks. In this spirit the issue of Jammu and Kashmir was addressed and the leaders agreed to continue these discussions in a sincere and purposeful and forward-looking manner for a final settlement.
In light of these positive developments and in the context of the visit to Brussels of Maj. Gen. (retd) Sardar Muhammed Anwar Khan, President of the State of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry, Leader of the Opposition of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, EIAS is convened a Round Table meeting entitled Kashmir - What Role for the EU?
Photos of the Event
EIAS Luncheon Briefing: From Bullets to Ballots & Beyond: Building Post-Conflict Democracies in Asia & Europe
21 April 2005, EIAS, Brussels
Speaker: Mr. Plamen Tonchev, Head of Asia Unit, Institute of International Economic Relations (IIER), Athens
Chair: Dr Willem van der Geest, Director, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
There are a great number of challenges to overcome when the time comes for democracy building in a post-conflict environment. While restoring democratic institutions in a country that has suffered from a conflict is a prerequisite, many more steps are needed on the road to full recovery: ballots alone do not necessarily lead away from bullets.
The European Institute for Asian Studies is honoured to welcome you to a briefing by Mr. Tonchev who, through the analysis of four case studies - Cambodia, East Timor, Bosnia and Cyprus - will present the intricacies of democracy building in countries that have suffered through years of conflict.
Mr. Tonchev, Head of Asia Unit at the Institute of International Economic Relations in Athens, has conducted extensive research on political and economic developments in Asia. Much of his work has focused on post-conflict resolution and in particular, post-election stabilisation and recovery in nations torn by conflict.
He has served as an election observer and political analyst on a number of OSCE and EU missions including in Afghanistan, Pakistan, East Timor, Indonesia, Cambodia, Bosnia, Albania, Ukraine and Azerbaijan.
In his briefing Mr. Tonchev will address the issues pertaining to the conduct of elections, highlight necessary steps to be taken in parallel to democratisation and present 'success indicators' in assessing the effectiveness of international assistance provided to post-conflict areas.
Furthermore, Mr. Tonchev will identify lessons learned from the four case studies and will offer afterthoughts on the commitment of the international community to the countries in question. In conclusion, Mr. Tonchev will suggest possibilities for steps to be taken within the Asia Europe Meeting process.
Photos of the Event
Speaker: Mr. Plamen Tonchev, Head of Asia Unit, Institute of International Economic Relations (IIER), Athens
Chair: Dr Willem van der Geest, Director, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
There are a great number of challenges to overcome when the time comes for democracy building in a post-conflict environment. While restoring democratic institutions in a country that has suffered from a conflict is a prerequisite, many more steps are needed on the road to full recovery: ballots alone do not necessarily lead away from bullets.
The European Institute for Asian Studies is honoured to welcome you to a briefing by Mr. Tonchev who, through the analysis of four case studies - Cambodia, East Timor, Bosnia and Cyprus - will present the intricacies of democracy building in countries that have suffered through years of conflict. Mr. Tonchev, Head of Asia Unit at the Institute of International Economic Relations in Athens, has conducted extensive research on political and economic developments in Asia. Much of his work has focused on post-conflict resolution and in particular, post-election stabilisation and recovery in nations torn by conflict.
He has served as an election observer and political analyst on a number of OSCE and EU missions including in Afghanistan, Pakistan, East Timor, Indonesia, Cambodia, Bosnia, Albania, Ukraine and Azerbaijan.
In his briefing Mr. Tonchev will address the issues pertaining to the conduct of elections, highlight necessary steps to be taken in parallel to democratisation and present 'success indicators' in assessing the effectiveness of international assistance provided to post-conflict areas.
Furthermore, Mr. Tonchev will identify lessons learned from the four case studies and will offer afterthoughts on the commitment of the international community to the countries in question. In conclusion, Mr. Tonchev will suggest possibilities for steps to be taken within the Asia Europe Meeting process.
Photos of the Event
EIAS Luncheon Briefing: From Bullets to Ballots & Beyond: Building Post-Conflict Democracies in Asia & Europe
21 April 2005
EIAS, Brussels
Speaker: Mr. Plamen Tonchev, Head of Asia Unit, Institute of International Economic Relations (IIER), Athens
Chair: Dr Willem van der Geest, Director, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
There are a great number of challenges to overcome when the time comes for democracy building in a post-conflict environment. While restoring democratic institutions in a country that has suffered from a conflict is a prerequisite, many more steps are needed on the road to full recovery: ballots alone do not necessarily lead away from bullets.
The European Institute for Asian Studies is honoured to welcome you to a briefing by Mr. Tonchev who, through the analysis of four case studies - Cambodia, East Timor, Bosnia and Cyprus - will present the intricacies of democracy building in countries that have suffered through years of conflict.
Mr. Tonchev, Head of Asia Unit at the Institute of International Economic Relations in Athens, has conducted extensive research on political and economic developments in Asia. Much of his work has focused on post-conflict resolution and in particular, post-election stabilisation and recovery in nations torn by conflict.
He has served as an election observer and political analyst on a number of OSCE and EU missions including in Afghanistan, Pakistan, East Timor, Indonesia, Cambodia, Bosnia, Albania, Ukraine and Azerbaijan.
In his briefing Mr. Tonchev will address the issues pertaining to the conduct of elections, highlight necessary steps to be taken in parallel to democratisation and present 'success indicators' in assessing the effectiveness of international assistance provided to post-conflict areas.
Furthermore, Mr. Tonchev will identify lessons learned from the four case studies and will offer afterthoughts on the commitment of the international community to the countries in question. In conclusion, Mr. Tonchev will suggest possibilities for steps to be taken within the Asia Europe Meeting process.
EIAS, Brussels
Speaker: Mr. Plamen Tonchev, Head of Asia Unit, Institute of International Economic Relations (IIER), Athens
Chair: Dr Willem van der Geest, Director, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
There are a great number of challenges to overcome when the time comes for democracy building in a post-conflict environment. While restoring democratic institutions in a country that has suffered from a conflict is a prerequisite, many more steps are needed on the road to full recovery: ballots alone do not necessarily lead away from bullets.
The European Institute for Asian Studies is honoured to welcome you to a briefing by Mr. Tonchev who, through the analysis of four case studies - Cambodia, East Timor, Bosnia and Cyprus - will present the intricacies of democracy building in countries that have suffered through years of conflict. Mr. Tonchev, Head of Asia Unit at the Institute of International Economic Relations in Athens, has conducted extensive research on political and economic developments in Asia. Much of his work has focused on post-conflict resolution and in particular, post-election stabilisation and recovery in nations torn by conflict.
He has served as an election observer and political analyst on a number of OSCE and EU missions including in Afghanistan, Pakistan, East Timor, Indonesia, Cambodia, Bosnia, Albania, Ukraine and Azerbaijan.
In his briefing Mr. Tonchev will address the issues pertaining to the conduct of elections, highlight necessary steps to be taken in parallel to democratisation and present 'success indicators' in assessing the effectiveness of international assistance provided to post-conflict areas.
Furthermore, Mr. Tonchev will identify lessons learned from the four case studies and will offer afterthoughts on the commitment of the international community to the countries in question. In conclusion, Mr. Tonchev will suggest possibilities for steps to be taken within the Asia Europe Meeting process.
7 April 2005, Maelbeek Room, Residence Palace, Brussels
Speaker: Dr. Hou Sheng-mou, Minister of Public Health, Republic of China (Taiwan)
Chair: Dr.Willem van der Geest, Director, European Institute for Asian Studies
The Taipei Representative Office in Belgium and the European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels are very pleased to invite you to a Special Briefing on Taiwan’s bid to contribute to the World Health Organization (WHO) as an observer. This request for observer status was launched eight years ago but has to date not yet received a positive response.
Taiwan’s absence of the WHO does not only take its toll on the health of the 23 million Taiwanese people but also means that other WHO members, in particular the developing countries, do not benefit from the medical, pharmaceutical and public health expertise which Taiwan would be bound to bring to the organization.
The Minister of Public Health, Dr. Hou, will brief the invited audience on the motivation for Taiwan’s campaign to gain observer status and explain the consequences of its exclusion for the Taiwanese people, the international community and for global public health.
The meeting has been called for the 7th of April to mark the annual World Health Day, which seeks to promote improved health care for every mother and child world wide.
Speaker: Dr. Hou Sheng-mou, Minister of Public Health, Republic of China (Taiwan)
Chair: Dr.Willem van der Geest, Director, European Institute for Asian Studies
The Taipei Representative Office in Belgium and the European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels are very pleased to invite you to a Special Briefing on Taiwan’s bid to contribute to the World Health Organization (WHO) as an observer. This request for observer status was launched eight years ago but has to date not yet received a positive response.
Taiwan’s absence of the WHO does not only take its toll on the health of the 23 million Taiwanese people but also means that other WHO members, in particular the developing countries, do not benefit from the medical, pharmaceutical and public health expertise which Taiwan would be bound to bring to the organization.
The Minister of Public Health, Dr. Hou, will brief the invited audience on the motivation for Taiwan’s campaign to gain observer status and explain the consequences of its exclusion for the Taiwanese people, the international community and for global public health.
The meeting has been called for the 7th of April to mark the annual World Health Day, which seeks to promote improved health care for every mother and child world wide.
6 April, 2005, Residence Palace, Brussels
Speakers:
James Moran, Head of the Asia Unit, External Relations DG, European Commission, Brussels
Dr. Greg Austin, Director of Research, Foreign Policy Centre, London
Dr. Sebastian Bersick, Research Fellow, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
Chair: Harold Tanner, Chairman of the Transatlantic Institute
Burgeoning trade, high-level summits and a new ‘strategic partnership’ agreement mark dramatic growth in Sino-European relations. Consequently, an EU campaign to lift its arms embargo against China - implemented by the EU and US in response to the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre - has gained momentum.
While Europe may profit from such a policy change, both economically and strategically, it now faces a new transatlantic dilemma. Will the EU opt for increased trade against America’s vocal protests? Is the embargo still an effective and appropriate way to stop human rights infractions or is it an oudated political signal? What are the repercussions for broader East Asian security and stability?
Presentations:
Dr Sebastian Bersick's Presentation
Speakers:
James Moran, Head of the Asia Unit, External Relations DG, European Commission, Brussels
Dr. Greg Austin, Director of Research, Foreign Policy Centre, London
Dr. Sebastian Bersick, Research Fellow, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
Chair: Harold Tanner, Chairman of the Transatlantic Institute
Burgeoning trade, high-level summits and a new ‘strategic partnership’ agreement mark dramatic growth in Sino-European relations. Consequently, an EU campaign to lift its arms embargo against China - implemented by the EU and US in response to the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre - has gained momentum.
While Europe may profit from such a policy change, both economically and strategically, it now faces a new transatlantic dilemma. Will the EU opt for increased trade against America’s vocal protests? Is the embargo still an effective and appropriate way to stop human rights infractions or is it an oudated political signal? What are the repercussions for broader East Asian security and stability?
Presentations:
Dr Sebastian Bersick's Presentation
6, April 2005
At Clingendael, the Netherlands Institute for International Relations in The Hague.
EIAS Director Dr van der Geest presented a lecture on ASEAN Regional Cooperation for a group of Junior Diplomats from Indonesia. He presented an evaluation of the ASEAN process of regional cooperation through a analysis of its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, concluding with recommendations for success and sustainability.
Presentation: ASEAN Regional Cooperation: Long Term Outlook and Sustainability by Dr Van Der Geest (ppt)
At Clingendael, the Netherlands Institute for International Relations in The Hague.
EIAS Director Dr van der Geest presented a lecture on ASEAN Regional Cooperation for a group of Junior Diplomats from Indonesia. He presented an evaluation of the ASEAN process of regional cooperation through a analysis of its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, concluding with recommendations for success and sustainability.
Presentation: ASEAN Regional Cooperation: Long Term Outlook and Sustainability by Dr Van Der Geest (ppt)
17 March 2005, EIAS, Brussels
Speaker:
Mr. Hendra Budian, Vice-Director, Banda Aceh Legal Aid Institute, Indonesia
Chair: Mr. Dick Gupwell, Secretary-General, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
The province of Aceh, in the north-western tip of Indonesia, has been the scene of a decades-long separatist struggle between the Free-Aceh Movement (GAM) and the Indonesian armed forces. In addition to claiming thousand of lives the conflict has been the source of grave human rights violations.
In December 2004 Aceh was devastated by the Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami. More than 140,000 people in the province have lost their lives and thousands are still struggling to regain their livelihoods.
An Acehnese lawyer, Hendra Budian has been working on human rights issues in the troubled province for several years. In addition to being Vice-Director of the Banda Aceh Legal Aid Institute, he is also Programme Director of Aceh's Judicial Monitoring Institute, Co-ordinator of the Human Rights Documentation Unit in Aceh and an active member of the Acehnese Civil Society Task Force.
Hendra Budian has been active in creating a Working Group which monitors human rights violations in the Aceh region, in civilian training of peace and human rights issues and on setting up the Saree School for Human Rights and Peace, which is the center for human rights training of Acehnese. After the tsunami hit, he set up the Relief Aid Center, which is the focal point for humanitarian assistance in Aceh.
Hendra Budian was invited to Brussels by INFID to attend a meeting of the European Parliament's Development Committee. He is en-route to Geneva where he will attend the 61st Session of the UN Commission on Human Rights as a member of the Indonesian delegation.
Photos of the Event
Speaker:Mr. Hendra Budian, Vice-Director, Banda Aceh Legal Aid Institute, Indonesia
Chair: Mr. Dick Gupwell, Secretary-General, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
The province of Aceh, in the north-western tip of Indonesia, has been the scene of a decades-long separatist struggle between the Free-Aceh Movement (GAM) and the Indonesian armed forces. In addition to claiming thousand of lives the conflict has been the source of grave human rights violations.
In December 2004 Aceh was devastated by the Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami. More than 140,000 people in the province have lost their lives and thousands are still struggling to regain their livelihoods.
An Acehnese lawyer, Hendra Budian has been working on human rights issues in the troubled province for several years. In addition to being Vice-Director of the Banda Aceh Legal Aid Institute, he is also Programme Director of Aceh's Judicial Monitoring Institute, Co-ordinator of the Human Rights Documentation Unit in Aceh and an active member of the Acehnese Civil Society Task Force.
Hendra Budian has been active in creating a Working Group which monitors human rights violations in the Aceh region, in civilian training of peace and human rights issues and on setting up the Saree School for Human Rights and Peace, which is the center for human rights training of Acehnese. After the tsunami hit, he set up the Relief Aid Center, which is the focal point for humanitarian assistance in Aceh.
Hendra Budian was invited to Brussels by INFID to attend a meeting of the European Parliament's Development Committee. He is en-route to Geneva where he will attend the 61st Session of the UN Commission on Human Rights as a member of the Indonesian delegation.
Photos of the Event
European Parliament, Brussels
March 15, 2005
Mr Nirj Deva MEP, in co-operation with Dr Van der Geest from the European Institute for Asian Studies,held a follow-up meeting to that which took place on post-tsunami relief last month.
The purpose of this meeting was to provide an exchange of views between Ambassadors and top representatives from NGOs and international institutions involved in the relief effort. This forum discussed the important issues of revenue transparency and NGO's capacity to absorb funding. Commissioner Louis Michel was present to discuss the topics at hand.
Related documents:
Speech by Commissionner Louis Michel (Link to Europa Press Release webpage)
Photos of the Event
March 15, 2005
Mr Nirj Deva MEP, in co-operation with Dr Van der Geest from the European Institute for Asian Studies,held a follow-up meeting to that which took place on post-tsunami relief last month. The purpose of this meeting was to provide an exchange of views between Ambassadors and top representatives from NGOs and international institutions involved in the relief effort. This forum discussed the important issues of revenue transparency and NGO's capacity to absorb funding. Commissioner Louis Michel was present to discuss the topics at hand.Related documents:
Speech by Commissionner Louis Michel (Link to Europa Press Release webpage)
Photos of the Event
2 March 2005, EIAS, Brussels
Speakers:
H.E. Narayan S. Thapa, Ambassador, Royal Embassy of Nepal
Mr. Nicholas Grono, Director of Advocacy & Research, International Crisis Group
Chair: Mr. Dick Gupwell, Secretary-General, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
On February 1st, King Gyanendra of Nepal caught his kingdom and the international community off guard by announcing the dismissal of the government and declaring a state of emergency whilst assuming direct control of the government. The King claims his actions, which include the detention of politicians, human rights workers and students, serve to defend Nepalese multiparty democracy.
Denouncing the ex-government's inefficiency with regards to the Maoist insurgency that has plunged Nepal into a deepening crisis and cost the lives of thousands, King Gyanendra has pledged to bring back peace within three years.
However, many observers warn that King Gyanendra's "royal coup" will undermine the Nepalese struggle with the Maoist insurgency, possibly leading to an escalation of violence.
The international community has called for the restoration of democracy and civil rights as well as the release of all opposition leaders. The United States and several EU states have recalled their ambassadors to Nepal as a demonstration of their opposition to the King's actions.
In order to shed light on these developments and discuss the steps ahead for the Nepalese Kingdom, the European Institute for Asian Studies has invited H.E. Ambassador Narayan S. Thapa of Nepal and Mr. Nicholas Grono, Director of Advocacy and Research at the International Crisis Group, to give a briefing on Democracy and Governance in Nepal.
Photos of the Event
Speakers: H.E. Narayan S. Thapa, Ambassador, Royal Embassy of Nepal
Mr. Nicholas Grono, Director of Advocacy & Research, International Crisis Group
Chair: Mr. Dick Gupwell, Secretary-General, European Institute for Asian Studies, Brussels
On February 1st, King Gyanendra of Nepal caught his kingdom and the international community off guard by announcing the dismissal of the government and declaring a state of emergency whilst assuming direct control of the government. The King claims his actions, which include the detention of politicians, human rights workers and students, serve to defend Nepalese multiparty democracy.
Denouncing the ex-government's inefficiency with regards to the Maoist insurgency that has plunged Nepal into a deepening crisis and cost the lives of thousands, King Gyanendra has pledged to bring back peace within three years.
However, many observers warn that King Gyanendra's "royal coup" will undermine the Nepalese struggle with the Maoist insurgency, possibly leading to an escalation of violence.
The international community has called for the restoration of democracy and civil rights as well as the release of all opposition leaders. The United States and several EU states have recalled their ambassadors to Nepal as a demonstration of their opposition to the King's actions.
In order to shed light on these developments and discuss the steps ahead for the Nepalese Kingdom, the European Institute for Asian Studies has invited H.E. Ambassador Narayan S. Thapa of Nepal and Mr. Nicholas Grono, Director of Advocacy and Research at the International Crisis Group, to give a briefing on Democracy and Governance in Nepal.
Photos of the Event
1 March, 2005
European Parliament, Brussels
Through an historic video-conference, President Chen Shui-bian, the president of Taiwan, the Republic of China, launched a dialogue involving members of the European Parliament, leading journalists from across Europe, academic scholars and analysts. The panel included:
Moderator: Dr. Willem van der Geest, Director, European Institute for Asian Studies
Panel:
Mr. Graham Watson, Member of the European Parliament
Mr. Georg Jarzembowski, Member of the European Parliament
Mr. Aidan White, Secretary-General, International Federation of Journalists
Mr. Patrice De Beer, Editor, Le Monde
Taipei Times article on the Conference
Photos of the Event
European Parliament, Brussels
Through an historic video-conference, President Chen Shui-bian, the president of Taiwan, the Republic of China, launched a dialogue involving members of the European Parliament, leading journalists from across Europe, academic scholars and analysts. The panel included:Moderator: Dr. Willem van der Geest, Director, European Institute for Asian Studies
Panel:
Mr. Graham Watson, Member of the European Parliament
Mr. Georg Jarzembowski, Member of the European Parliament
Mr. Aidan White, Secretary-General, International Federation of Journalists
Mr. Patrice De Beer, Editor, Le Monde
Taipei Times article on the Conference
Photos of the Event
European Parliament, Brussels
February 15, 2005
On February 15th 2005 a meeting on The Post-Tsunami Relief Effort, organised by Mr Nirj Deva MEP and co-chaired by the European Institute for Asian Studies, was held at the at the European Parliament in Brussels.
The purpose of the meeting was to provide a forum for Ambassadors from the tsunami affected areas to discuss their country's needs in an exchange of views with other Ambassadors from donor countries, representatives from European and international institutions, and NGO representatives.
Dr Willem van der Geest, Director EIAS, co-chaired the meeting with Mr Nirj Deva MEP.
Recommendations: Post Tsunami Relief:What the EU Should Do? by Dr Willem Van Der Geest (ppt)
February 15, 2005
On February 15th 2005 a meeting on The Post-Tsunami Relief Effort, organised by Mr Nirj Deva MEP and co-chaired by the European Institute for Asian Studies, was held at the at the European Parliament in Brussels.
The purpose of the meeting was to provide a forum for Ambassadors from the tsunami affected areas to discuss their country's needs in an exchange of views with other Ambassadors from donor countries, representatives from European and international institutions, and NGO representatives.
Dr Willem van der Geest, Director EIAS, co-chaired the meeting with Mr Nirj Deva MEP.
Recommendations: Post Tsunami Relief:What the EU Should Do? by Dr Willem Van Der Geest (ppt)
25 January 2005, EIAS, Brussels
Asia has been the scene of serious human rights violations, often committed during armed conflict or serious civil unrest, such as in Afghanistan, East Timor, parts of Indonesia, Kashmir, Myanmar, Nepal, regions of Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Unstable political situations and traditionally weak human rights protection have contributed to a pervasive climate of impunity towards violations of human rights and humanitarian law.
Denial of justice in respect of human rights violations has undermined human security, development and the rule of law in many Asian countries over time. Given the pattern of failure on the part of some Asian Governments to prevent human rights and humanitarian law violations, it has become essential to consider what avenues at the international level could assist these Governments to provide justice and redress.
Dr. Bottigliero's presentation will focus on the potential role of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in Asia and discuss prospects and challenges for the better application of international standards in respect of criminal justice and redress for victims of serious human rights and humanitarian law violations in Asia.
Short Biography of Dr. Ilaria Bottigliero
Photos of the Event
Asia has been the scene of serious human rights violations, often committed during armed conflict or serious civil unrest, such as in Afghanistan, East Timor, parts of Indonesia, Kashmir, Myanmar, Nepal, regions of Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Unstable political situations and traditionally weak human rights protection have contributed to a pervasive climate of impunity towards violations of human rights and humanitarian law. Denial of justice in respect of human rights violations has undermined human security, development and the rule of law in many Asian countries over time. Given the pattern of failure on the part of some Asian Governments to prevent human rights and humanitarian law violations, it has become essential to consider what avenues at the international level could assist these Governments to provide justice and redress.
Dr. Bottigliero's presentation will focus on the potential role of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in Asia and discuss prospects and challenges for the better application of international standards in respect of criminal justice and redress for victims of serious human rights and humanitarian law violations in Asia.Short Biography of Dr. Ilaria Bottigliero
Photos of the Event
Venue: Room 70, The European Economic and Social Committee
99 rue Belliard, B-1040, Brussels
Dates : 15h00 - 17h30, Wednesday, January 19, 2005
The tsunami waves that struck the shores of numerous countries across the Indian Ocean on 26 December 2004 caused massive destruction and tragic loss of life. The tsunami caused enormous humanitarian, social and economic impact throughout the region, with political implications on a global scale.
The short, medium and long-term consequences of this horrendous natural disaster across Asia and Africa are far-reaching. A number of international and regional initiatives are taking place to provide a situation analysis and respond appropriately to the region's needs. International support, including from the people and governments of the European Union, has been generous and unprecedented.
In light of these developments a number of questions must be addressed:
Will the generous humanitarian assistance offered by the EU be followed up with adequate long-term support to rebuild shattered communities and provide them the means to regain their livelihoods?
What needs to be done to ensure an effective long-term approach from the EU?
Will the offers of humanitarian assistance and financial aid by EU governments be additional resources for the affected countries or is there cause for concern that those funds are drawn from budgets earmarked for development?
What is the likely economic impact on growth and development across the region as well as on the directly affected islands and coastal areas?
Will the political solidarity shown at this time of tragedy translate into strengthening of cooperation within the region? Can post-tsunami reconstruction facilitate resolution of conflicts within the affected countries, especially in Indonesia and Sri Lanka?
Final programme of the round table
Related Documents:
H.E Ridzam Deva's Speech
Presentation: Post Tsunami Relief, Development and Reconstruction. What Can the EU Co? by Dr Willem Van Der Geest
Photos of the Event
99 rue Belliard, B-1040, Brussels
Dates : 15h00 - 17h30, Wednesday, January 19, 2005
The tsunami waves that struck the shores of numerous countries across the Indian Ocean on 26 December 2004 caused massive destruction and tragic loss of life. The tsunami caused enormous humanitarian, social and economic impact throughout the region, with political implications on a global scale.
The short, medium and long-term consequences of this horrendous natural disaster across Asia and Africa are far-reaching. A number of international and regional initiatives are taking place to provide a situation analysis and respond appropriately to the region's needs. International support, including from the people and governments of the European Union, has been generous and unprecedented.In light of these developments a number of questions must be addressed: Will the generous humanitarian assistance offered by the EU be followed up with adequate long-term support to rebuild shattered communities and provide them the means to regain their livelihoods?
What needs to be done to ensure an effective long-term approach from the EU? Will the offers of humanitarian assistance and financial aid by EU governments be additional resources for the affected countries or is there cause for concern that those funds are drawn from budgets earmarked for development?
What is the likely economic impact on growth and development across the region as well as on the directly affected islands and coastal areas?Will the political solidarity shown at this time of tragedy translate into strengthening of cooperation within the region? Can post-tsunami reconstruction facilitate resolution of conflicts within the affected countries, especially in Indonesia and Sri Lanka?
Final programme of the round table
Related Documents:
H.E Ridzam Deva's Speech
Presentation: Post Tsunami Relief, Development and Reconstruction. What Can the EU Co? by Dr Willem Van Der Geest
Photos of the Event
Conference: Regionalism vs Multi-lateralism: What Could Bangladesh learn from the Global Experience?
Centre for Policy Dialogue, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Monday, January 3, 2005
The Dialogue on Regionalism vs. Multi-lateralism was chaired by Prof Rehman Sobhan, Chairman Centre for Policy Dialogue, with Commerce Minister Altaf Hossain Choudhury as the Chief Guest and the former Commerce Minister and
opposition Awami League leader Mr Tofail Ahmed as the Special Guest.
Dr Willem van der Geest presented a keynote address at the Dialogue, entitled Regionalism vs Multi-lateralism: Lessons for Bangladesh from Indo-ASEAN Experience. The Dialogue was arranged by the Centre for Policy
Dialogue, Dhaka, Bangladesh. The Dialogue was also addressed by the Government of Bangladesh's Commerce Secretary, representatives of Bangladesh Enterprise Institute, the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the
Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Representatives of the Delegation of the European Commission, the Indian High Commission to Bangladesh as well as leading analysts from Dhaka University and the
Bangladesh Liberal Arts University contributed to the dialogue discussion.
Presentation: Regionalism vs Multi-lateralism: Lessons for Bangladesh from Indo-ASEAN Experience by Dr Van Der Geest
Daily Star, Bengladesh's coverage of the Dialogue
Monday, January 3, 2005
The Dialogue on Regionalism vs. Multi-lateralism was chaired by Prof Rehman Sobhan, Chairman Centre for Policy Dialogue, with Commerce Minister Altaf Hossain Choudhury as the Chief Guest and the former Commerce Minister and
opposition Awami League leader Mr Tofail Ahmed as the Special Guest.
Dr Willem van der Geest presented a keynote address at the Dialogue, entitled Regionalism vs Multi-lateralism: Lessons for Bangladesh from Indo-ASEAN Experience. The Dialogue was arranged by the Centre for Policy
Dialogue, Dhaka, Bangladesh. The Dialogue was also addressed by the Government of Bangladesh's Commerce Secretary, representatives of Bangladesh Enterprise Institute, the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the
Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Representatives of the Delegation of the European Commission, the Indian High Commission to Bangladesh as well as leading analysts from Dhaka University and the
Bangladesh Liberal Arts University contributed to the dialogue discussion.
Presentation: Regionalism vs Multi-lateralism: Lessons for Bangladesh from Indo-ASEAN Experience by Dr Van Der Geest
Daily Star, Bengladesh's coverage of the Dialogue
