Vice President of India visit to Brussels to attend 12th Asia-Europe Meeting (October 18-20, 2018)

New Delhi: Vice President of India, Shri Venkaiah Naidu led a delegation to participate in the 12th Asia-Europe Meeting that took place on 18-19 October 2018 in Brussels bringing together 51 countries across Asia and Europe, as well as EU and ASEAN Institutions under the title “Global Partners for Global Challenges”.

At the Summit, Vice President joined the other global leaders in unanimously stressing the role of ASEM as a main platform for Europe and Asia to strengthen dialogue, foster cooperation and tackles global challenges, such as climate change, terrorism, global peace and security, maritime governance, preserving and strengthening rules-based multilateral trading system, and working towards 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. Chair’s statement was also issued at the Summit.

Vice President, during his interventions, called on the international community to take concerted action against terrorism, including cross-border terrorism, that threatens peace and stability. He stated that it is important to uphold principles of non-interference in internal affairs of other countries and to respect sovereignty and territorial integrity. He stressed on an early adoption of the United Nations Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism. Terming economic offences as a serious issue that threatens the financial stability of nations, he asked the ASEM partners to work together for denying shelter and for expeditious and timely exchange of financial information. He also highlighted India’s own ambitious policy measures in actively combating climate change and stressed International Solar Alliance as a shining example of Asia-Europe cooperation. He underlined Government of India’s measure for more inclusive development, including focus on women empowerment.

Earlier on October 18, Vice President also called on His Majesty King Philippe of the Belgians. On the sidelines of the Summit, Vice President also met with the Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras and Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and exchanged views on matters of common interest.

After successfully concluding his visit, Vice President will be returning to Delhi on October 21.

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