Over 500 non-governmental organization representatives from Europe and Asia have attended the seventh Asia-Europe People's Forum in Beijing. The forum focuses on the theme of "social justice and environmental protection".

Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi speaks during the opening ceremony of the 7th Asia Europe Peopl's Forum in Beijing, capital of China, on Oct. 13, 2008. More than 500 non-governmental delegates from Europe and Asia participate in the forum that aims to promote social justice and enviromental protections. [Xinhua]

Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi also attended the opening ceremony on Monday, where he announced the seventh EU-Asia summit will be held in late October, also in Beijing.

He said China hopes the summit will enhance mutual understanding and trust between Asia and Europe, and promote multilateralism and sustainable development. He said the summit is also expected to serve as a platform to develop contacts between peoples and institutions, which can in turn pave the way for building a more harmonious world.

Representatives from EU and Asian NGO's also spoke at Monday's event.

The photo shows ageneral view of the opening ceremony of the 7th Asia-Europe Peopl's Forum in Beijing, capital of China, on Oct. 13, 2008. More than 500 non-governmental delegates from Europe and Asia participate in the forum that aims to promote social justice and enviromental protections. [Xinhua]

(CCTV October 14, 2008)