The Asia-Europe Foundation, the only standing organ of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM), pledged to play an even more active role in promoting cultural exchanges and cooperation between the two continents.

Delfin Colome, executive director of the foundation, said in Beijing Thursday that his organization will help Asian and European officials at different levels to have more exchanges and promote the two continents' cooperation in all spheres.

Attending the Conference on Cultures and Civilizations, the first within the framework of ASEM, Colome said the world is facing threats from unilateralism, and thus more opportunities should be created for countries to get together and have dialogues.

"To meet challenges from terrorism and globalization, we need to unite together and hold dialogues based on equality and mutual respect," he said.

Mainly dedicated to cultural cooperation and heritage protection, the foundation has held approximately 200 exchange activities since it was founded seven years ago. Through exchanges in information, culture and human resources, the foundation has enhanced understanding between Asian and European people.

Colome sang the praises of China's leading role in initiating and organizing the conference, saying that it has provided opportunities for cultural officials to conduct candid and constructive dialogues and promote the two continents' partnership.

"China has a magnificent culture and a stable political situation and social environment," he said, adding that "these factors laid a sound basis for success of the meeting."
 
(Xinhua News Agency December 4, 2003)