The 12th ASEM Summit, with the theme "Global Partners for Global Challenges" was inaugurated on 18 October 2018. Hon'ble Vice President of India, Shri Venkaiah Naidu led the Indian Delegation for the Summit.
Vice President addressed the plenary and retreat session at the Summit on 19 October 2018.
During his interventions, Vice President stated that India valued ASEM as a platform that brings together leadership of Asia and Europe to exchange views and address global challenges. Terming terrorism as a major threat to peace and stability, he called for
an early conclusion of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism, stressing peace is the prerequisite for progress and peace cannot be achieved without combatting terrorism.
He drew attention of the leaders to the challenge that criminal misappropriation of public assets by economic offenders, was posing threats to the integrity of financial systems. He expressed the need for international cooperation to deny shelter to the economic
offenders including by enhancing mechanisms for Automatic Exchange of Information.
He elaborated on the various initiatives undertaken by the Government to promote inclusive governance, women's welfare, sustainable development and digitalization. He pointed out that the biggest driver to prevent climate change was the elimination of poverty
through sustainable use of resources. He called on ASEM partners to join the International Solar Alliance, which symbolizes Asia -Europe cooperation, being an initiative launched by India and France.
Citing India's international connectivity projects, Vice President emphasized "connectivity initiatives must meet universally recognized international norms such as respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.
"Connecting nations, connecting the hearts and minds and connecting economic development with environmental protection is at the heart of our shared commitment", he said. He asserted "India's development architecture is underpinned by 'collective efforts for
inclusive development' as PM Modi has repeatedly emphasized.
He concluded with a verse from Rig Veda that he hoped would possibly inspire the countries in Asia and Europe as well as all the countries in the world to move forward together.
"May our purpose be the same
May we all come to a common understanding
May our aspirations and intentions be similar
May a common set of objectives unite us"
Brussels
October 19, 2018