From Leslean Arshad
MILAN, Oct 15 (Bernama) — Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak arrived here Wednesday to attend the 10th summit of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM).
Najib and his wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, arrived in a special aircraft that landed at the Linate Military Airport here at about 8.30 am (2.30 pm Malaysian time).
The prime minister’s delegation was greeted on arrival by Malaysian Ambassador to Italy Datin Paduka Halimah Abdullah and embassy officials.
The two-day summit, carrying the theme “Responsible Partnership for Growth and Security”, begins Thursday and will discuss inter-regional issues between Asia and Europe, covering the political, economic and socio-cultural pillars of the ASEM cooperative framework.
They include traditional and non-traditional security challenges, economic and financial recovery, enhancing Asia-Europe connectivity, sustainable development, human rights, and the future direction of ASEM.
ASEM was formed in 1996 as a forum for dialogue and cooperation between Europe and Asia. This year’s summit gathers 53 countries from the two continents.
Every two years, ASEM heads of state and government meet at a summit to set ASEM’s priorities. These summits are held alternatively in Asia and Europe.
Malaysia is the coordinator for Asean at this summit.
Najib will, among others, deliver a statement at the first plenary session. While in this Italian city, Najib is also scheduled to participate in the Asia-Europe Business Forum and meet Asian and European leaders.
— BERNAMA
