The Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) on promoting inclusive socio-economic development in Asia and Europe opened a conference in the central province of Khánh Hòa on Thursday. — VNA/VNS Photo Tiên Minh

KHÁNH HÒA — The Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) on promoting inclusive socio-economic development in Asia and Europe opened a conference in the central province of Khánh Hòa on Thursday, attracting more than 180 delegates from 53 ASEM member states, regional and international organisations.

Co-hosted by the ministries of Foreign Affairs; Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs; and Planning and Investment; and the provincial People’s Committee, the event aims to realise Việt Nam’s initiatives adopted at the 12th ASEM Summit in Brussels in October last year.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs Doãn Mậu Diệp said the Vietnamese Government has carried out a sustainable development strategy through ensuring economic growth in tandem with social progress and justice, as well as strengthening the social welfare system for all citizens.

Deputy Foreign Minister Nguyễn Quốc Cường said countries are facing challenges regarding gaps in wealth, income and employment, gender inequality, terrorism, transnational crimes, cyber security and climate change.

He suggested that ASEM’s initiatives should be people-centred; bring practical benefits to them; uphold creativity in all walks of life, especially young people and women, as well as improve economic empowerment for women.

The official spoke highly of strategic partnerships on sustainable development, ASEM’s effective projects on financial aid and technological transfer in Việt Nam.

As one of the founding members of ASEM, Việt Nam always prioritises enhancing ASEM co-operation, he said.

Monica Gheorghita, Secretary of State for Global Affairs of Romania, spoke highly of Việt Nam’s initiative to host the event and discuss sustainable development issues, contributing to promoting ASEM’s contribution to global efforts.  

The two-day event focuses on inclusive socio-economic development in the 21st century, the role and involvement of parties as part of preparations for the 14th ASEM Foreign Ministers’ Meeting scheduled for December in Spain. — VNS