日本語   JCIE Japanese Language Site



Related

DRM Issues

II. Track 2: Multisectoral Policy Meetings

  1. 7th International Congress on AIDS in Asia and the Pacific (ICAAP)
  2. Network of East Asian Think-Tanks (NEAT) East Asian Investment Cooperation Working Group Meeting and the First East Asia Investment Forum (EAIF)
  3. A Grand Design for Northeast Asia: Phase III—1st International Workshop
  4. Peace Forum International Conference: East Asian Security
  5. Transport Infrastructure and Poverty Reduction Workshop
  6. From Reaction to Prevention: Civil Society Forging Partnerships to Prevent Violent Conflict and Build Peace
  7. The Impact of the Global War on Terrorism and Island State Security
  8. Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) Inter-faith Dialogue
  9. China-Japan-US Trilateral Conference
  10. 55th Pugwash Conference on Science and World Affairs: 60 Years After Hiroshima and Nagasaki
  11. 3rd Asia Economic Summit
  12. Strategies for East Asia Growth and Openness
  13. Regional Workshop Launching the Asian Environmental Compliance and Enforcement Network (AECEN)
  14. Biosecurity Threats in the Asia-Pacific Region
  15. Senior Policy Seminar 2005
  16. CSCAP Study Group on Enhancing the Effectiveness of the Campaign Against International Terrorism With Specific Reference to the Asia-Pacific Region
  17. United States, Japan, and China Relations: Trilateral Cooperation in the 21st Century
  18. Forum on Water Issues in Southeast Asia: Present Trends and Future Directions
  19. International Convention of Asia Scholars (ICAS) 4
  20. IDSS-NBR Conference—Contending Perspectives: Southeast Asian and American Views on a Rising China
  21. 3rd Annual Conference of the Network of East Asian Think-Tanks (NEAT)
  22. Regional Strategic and Political Developments Forum
  23. CSCAP Study Group on Human Trafficking in the Asia-Pacific Region
  24. 2nd Southeast Asia Water Forum
  25. 13th Annual Workshop of the Framework on Regional Cooperation for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights in the Asia-Pacific Region
  26. 5th Asian International Forum in Fukuoka—Envisioning an "East Asian Community
  27. East Asian Economic Integration: Reality and Vision
  28. 15th New Generation Seminar—Health Issues in the Asia Pacific Region
  29. 16th General Meeting of the Pacific Economic Cooperation Council (PECC)
  30. Launch of the Regional Millennium Development Goals (MDG) II Report
  31. Meeting on the Straits of Malacca and Maritime Security
  32. Perspectives on Asia-Pacific Security for the 21st Century
  33. Ten Years of ASEM
  34. High-Level Conference on Asian Economic Community: Vision of a New Asia
  35. Conference on Strengthening the Korea-ASEAN Relationship
  36. Growing Integration of the Greater Mekong: Sub-regional ASEAN States in Asian Region
  37. Promotion of Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency, and Greenhouse Gas Abatement (PREGA) Sub-regional Workshop (Mekong, East, and Southeast Asia)
  38. 14th Northeast Asia Economic Forum (NEAEF)
  39. Regional Transnational Security Initiatives/Homeland Security Summit
  40. Institutionalizing Northeast Asia: Making the Impossible Possible?
  41. Southeast Asia and "Rising" China: A Political Economy Perspective on US Interests and Policies
  42. 7th Steering Group Meeting of the ADB-OECD Anti-Corruption Initiative for Asia and the Pacific
  43. 1st ASEAN+3 Youth Forum on Friendship and Cooperation
  44. The Proposed East Asian Community—Inventing a New Framework for Peace and Security in Northeast Asia
  45. A Grand Design for Northeast Asia: Phase III—2nd International Workshop
  46. ASEAN 100 Leadership Forum—Southeast Asia in Transition: Where to From Here?
  47. 5th Regional Anti-corruption Conference of the ADB-OECD Anti-corruption Initiative for Asia and the Pacific
  48. IDSS–Ford Foundation 2nd Dissemination Workshop—Non-traditional Security in Asia: Understanding the Dynamics of Securitisation in Asia
  49. Regional Conference on Civil Society Engagement in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
  50. 2nd NCAFP Trilateral US-Japan-Republic of Korea Roundtable
  51. Japan's Foreign and Security Policies: Alternatives, Drivers, and Implications
  52. Non-governmental Six-Party Talks on Cooperation in Northeast Asia
  53. ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Expert Eminent Persons Workshop
  54. China and Northeast Asian Energy Strategies
  55. 2nd Meeting of the ASEAN-China Eminent Persons Group (EPG)
  56. Liberal International Women's Workshop and the Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats General Assembly
  57. Asia-Pacific Security Forum: Old Challenges and New Developments in Asia Pacific Security
  58. Vietnam-China–United States Trilateral Dialogue
  59. 11th Asia Pacific Agenda Project (APAP) Forum: Engaging the United States in an Emerging East Asia Community
  60. US Asia Pacific Council Washington Conference 2005
  61. Creating the East Asian Free Trade Area (EAFTA)
  62. New Partnership for Energy Cooperation in Northeast Asia
  63. 3rd East Asia Forum
  64. Joint Study Convention on East Asia Cooperation
  65. Trilateral Tools for Managing Complex Contingencies: US-Japan-Korea Cooperation in Disaster Relief and Stabilization
  66. 13th Conference of the East and Southeast Asia Network for Better Local Governments
  67. Indigenous Peoples and Rights Based Development: Engaging in Dialogue
  68. 1st CSCAP Export Controls Experts Group Meeting
  69. Workshop on Framing the ASEAN Charter
  70. Northeast Asia and Mongolia: Opportunities and Challenges
  71. Experts' Meeting on Long-Term Scenarios of Asia's Growth and Trade
  72. 2nd Meeting of the CSCAP Study Group on Future Prospects for Multilateral Security Frameworks in the North Pacific/Northeast Asia
  73. 2nd Congress of the Asian Political & International Studies Association (APISA)
  74. ASEAN Roundtable 2005: The Asian Tsunami—Implications on Regional Development and Security
  75. High-Level Conference on Asian Economic Integration: Towards an Asian Economic Community
  76. Debating the East Asia Summit: IDSS Roundtable
  77. Regional Meeting on Avian Influenza and Pandemic Preparedness and Regional Meeting on the Health Aspects of Emergency Preparedness and Response
  78. 7th EU–East Asia Think Tank Dialogue
  79. Asia Energy Forum 2005
  80. Trilateral Commission Pacific Asia Group Regional Meeting
  81. Asia e-University Roundtable
  82. Maritime Security in Southeast Asia: 2nd IDSS-NUPI Workshop
  83. The Changing Korean Peninsula and the Future of East Asia—CNAPS Regional Forum
  84. 4th United Nations–Republic of Korea Joint Conference on Disarmament and Non-proliferation Issues: Strengthening the NPT and the Non-proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction and their Means of Delivery
  85. ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Myanmar Caucus (AIPMC): Conference on Good Governance, Democracy, and ASEAN
  86. CSCAP Study Group on Capacity Building for Maritime Security Co-operation in the Asia Pacific
  87. CSCAP Study Group on Countering the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction in the Asia Pacific
  88. The Importance of ASEAN-Japan Cooperation in East Asia
  89. International Workshop on Non-traditional Security in East Asia
  90. CSCAP 24th Steering Committee Meeting
  91. Forum on Gender Issues and HIV/AIDS in Southeast Asia: Trends and Challenges for the 21st Century
  92. ASEAN Civil Society Conference
  93. 5th CSCAP General Conference: Addressing Emerging Security Challenges in the Asia Pacific Region
  94. 1st Asian Political Parties Workshop on Efficient Party Management
  95. Regional Workshop on Capacity Building for Resettlement Risk Management
  96. International Symposium on Economic Integration in Asia and India: What is the Best Way of Regional Cooperation?
  97. Workshop on Governance and Regionalism in Asia
  98. 3rd East Asia Congress—East Asian Cooperation: Past Accomplishments, Future Goals
  99. 2005 ASEAN Business & Investment Summit
  100. ASEM's Role in Enhancing Asia-Europe Cooperation: Ten Years of Achievements and Future Challenges
  101. Meeting of the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) on the ASEAN Charter
  102. 4th Network of East Asian Think-Tanks (NEAT) Country Coordinators (CC) Meeting
  103. The Rise of China and the Future of the Asia-Pacific Region
  104. CSIS-JETRO Conference: Integration of East Asian Economies—A Role for the United States and Japan
  105. Roundtable on the Vientiane Action Programme
  106. Regional Conference: China's Development and Prospect of ASEAN-China Cooperation
  1. 7th International Congress on AIDS in Asia and the Pacific (ICAAP)
    Date: July 1–5, 2005
    Location: Kobe, Japan
    Organizers/Sponsors: International Congress on AIDS in Asia and the Pacific (ICAAP) Organizing Committee; Japanese Society for AIDS Research, Japanese Foundation for AIDS Prevention, and Japan Anti-Tuberculosis Association
    The ICAAP meetings aim at facilitating prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS and the promotion of information sharing. Participants included people living with HIV/AIDS, scientific researchers, community activists, health professionals, and government and international agency representatives—all of whom are involved in the search for more effective strategies and increased political commitment to the problem of prevention and treatment in the Asia Pacific region. The main theme of this 7th ICAAP meeting, which drew participants from 60 countries, was "Bridging Science and Community." Although science has made great strides in the understanding of HIV infection and anti-retroviral development, it is essential that a bridge be built to all affected communities so that they have access to and can participate in the development of prevention, treatment, and care strategies. Sessions focused on such topics as "HIV epidemic and regional response," "cross-border approaches," and "prevention and care in the community."
    For information, see: http://www.icaap7.jp/
  2. Network of East Asian Think-Tanks (NEAT) East Asian Investment Cooperation Working Group Meeting and the First East Asia Investment Forum (EAIF)
    Date: July 1–3, 2005
    Location: Shandong Province, China
    Organizers/Sponsors: Network of East Asian Think-Tanks (NEAT); jointly sponsored by China Foreign Affairs University, China Development Bank, and the Shandong Government
    The July 2005 meeting of the NEAT East Asian Investment Cooperation Working Group gathered 26 representatives from Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. Discussions centered around economic development and the current state of investment cooperation in East Asia. All participants agreed that East Asian investment cooperation is at a significant turning point and they offered policy recommendations to promote its further development. The working group will draft a report based on the results of the meeting, which will be submitted to the 3rd Annual Conference of NEAT for further discussion. The East Asian Investment Forum was held immediately after the Working Group meeting.
    For information, see: http://www.neat.org.cn/neatweb_en/hysj/contentshow.php?
    content_id=50
  3. A Grand Design for Northeast Asia: Phase III—1st International Workshop
    Date: July 8, 2005
    Location: Changchun, China
    Organizers/Sponsors: National Institute for Research Advancement (NIRA), Japan; National Development and Reform Commission, China; and the Korean Research Institute for Human Settlements
    This was the first of three international workshops held in this third phase, which will culminate in a publication of all the reports and presentations in Japanese and English. Each think tank set up a task force to promote information exchange and to create a common vision toward the development of the Northeast Asian region. The main focus was on transportation infrastructure and networking and on energy and the environment. The meeting was attended by task force members and other Chinese experts. Site visits were arranged to examine local railroad and road transportation connecting the three cities of Shenyang, Dandong, and Dalian.
    For information, see: http://www.nira.go.jp/newsj/kanren/160/163/gaiyou.html
  4. Peace Forum International Conference: East Asian Security
    Date: July 18, 2005
    Location: Taipei, Taiwan
    Organizers/Sponsors: Foundation on International & Cross-Strait Studies (Republic of China, ROC), Brookings Institution, and Tamkang University (ROC); sponsored by the ROC Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government Information Office, and Overseas Chinese Commission
    This one-day forum brought together scholars and government officials from the Asia Pacific region to examine such issues as China's rise and its regional implications, US strategy in Asia Pacific, and regional cooperation in Asia Pacific.
    For information, see: http://www.tp.org.tw/events/detail.htm?id=20000153
    http://www.fics.org.tw/eastasia
  5. Transport Infrastructure and Poverty Reduction Workshop
    Date: July 18–22, 2005
    Location: Manila, Philippines
    Organizers/Sponsors: Asian Development Bank (ADB)
    Investment in transport infrastructure has remained a priority area of attention in developing countries. While it is widely assumed that investment in infrastructure contributes to economic growth, there is a shared concern about the limited knowledge base linking infrastructure to poverty reduction. Experience shows that the poor disproportionately miss out on the benefits of infrastructure projects. This workshop took stock of the current knowledge on the relationship between transport infrastructure and poverty reduction, review lessons learned and best practices, and identify policy and operational implications as well as priorities for future research. Participants included senior government officials as well as NGO and private sector representatives. Targeted countries included Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor Leste, and Vietnam.
    For information, see: http://www.adbi.org/event/2005/07/18/
    851.transport.infrastructure.poverty.reduction/
  6. From Reaction to Prevention: Civil Society Forging Partnerships to Prevent Violent Conflict and Build Peace
    Date: July 19–21, 2005
    Location: New York, US
    Organizers/Sponsors: Global Partnership for the Prevention of Armed Conflict (GPPAC), in partnership with the United Nations Department of Political Affairs
    This three-day meeting brought together more than 900 people from 118 countries with the objective of launching a civil society international movement to prevent armed conflict. The meeting consisted of various fora to develop action plans for the implementation of the Global Action Agenda for the Prevention of Violent Conflict. Working groups focused, for example, on such themes as the roles of civil society in prevention and peacebuilding; promoting human security; indigenous and local approaches for working with conflict peacefully; and local businesses in peacebuilding. They agreed on the need for governments and intergovernmental organizations to direct greater priority and resources to early prevention of armed conflict and human security. They also highlighted the importance of ongoing engagement between civil society, government, and international organizations for prevention and peacebuilding to be sustainable.
    For information, see: http://www.gppac.net/page.php?id=797
  7. The Impact of the Global War on Terrorism and Island State Security
    Date: July 19–21, 2005
    Location: Hawaii, US
    Organizers/Sponsors: Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies (APCSS) and Pacific Islands Development Program (PIDP), East-West Center
    This conference was the fourth in an ongoing series organized by the APCSS, which promotes a policy-oriented and practitioner-focused dialogue on terrorism and other transnational security issues. It explored key security issues facing Oceania and Southeast Asia and opportunities for regional/international cooperation. The conference focused on improving understanding of the scope and nature of terrorism and other transnational problems that require interagency and multinational solutions. Participants found that the threat of terrorism for Pacific Island Countries is low but that there were potential threats and spillovers from Southeast Asia, and that the major threat is the potential use of these countries as transit points to other countries. Participants also stressed the need to place terrorism within a broader context of transnational threats.
    For information, see: http://www.apcss.org/core/Conference/CRES/
    2005%20Island%20State%20Exec%20Summ.doc
  8. Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) Inter-faith Dialogue
    Date: July 21–22, 2005
    Location: Bali, Indonesia
    Organizers/Sponsors: Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM); sponsored by the governments of Denmark, the European Commission, Finland, Greece, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Netherlands, the Philippines, Singapore, Spain, Thailand, and the UK
    Under the theme of "Building Inter-faith Harmony within the International Community," the ASEM Inter-faith Dialogue was organized to foster mutual understanding and respect among all faiths and religions, particularly in Asia and Europe, and to propose recommendations to actualize inter-faith harmony within the international community. The meeting was attended by participants from 39 ASEM partner countries and encompassed prominent faith and religious leaders, intellectuals, the media, and high-ranking government officials. The Bali Declaration on Building Interfaith Harmony was announced at the end of the event, containing recommendations for achieving inter-faith harmony within the international community.
    For information, see: http://www.deplu.go.id/?hotnews_id=95
    http://www.aseminfoboard.org/content/documents/
    050722_BaliDeclaration.pdf
  9. China-Japan-US Trilateral Conference
    Date: July 21–22, 2005
    Location: Beijing, China
    Organizers/Sponsors: Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies (CNAPS), Brookings Institution; Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS); Keizai Koho Center; hosted by Peking University
    In the wake of frictions between China and Japan, more than 20 foreign policy experts and former officials from China, Japan, and the United States met to discuss relations among the three countries. Candid discussions were held on strategic perceptions of the three countries, policies toward the Asia-Pacific region, economic issues, regional points of tension and hot spots, counter-terrorism, and energy. The emphasis was on how to build cooperation and minimize tensions. The participants agreed that a stable and cooperative relationship among China, Japan, and the United States would be in the best interests of the three countries and the rest of the world. The organizers decided to hold another meeting in Japan in the first half of next year to continue their discussions and to produce a report with recommendations to be submitted to their governments.
    For information, see: http://www.brookings.edu/comm/events/
    20050721china.htm
    http://www.kkc.or.jp/english/activities/discuss5.html#2005_9
  10. 55th Pugwash Conference on Science and World Affairs: 60 Years After Hiroshima and Nagasaki
    Date: July 22–27, 2005
    Location: Hiroshima, Japan
    Organizers/Sponsors: Pugwash Council
    Scientists and academics from 40 countries gathered for a five-day conference in Hiroshima, which marked the 60th anniversary of the nuclear bombing of that city. Participants discussed the legacy of the 1955 Manifesto issued by Albert Einstein and Bertrand Russell, which called for the renunciation of war and of nuclear arms, and which launched the Pugwash Conferences. They also examined issues related to nonproliferation, the Islamic world and its relations with the West, sustainable development, and regional security in East Asia. Participants issued a declaration calling for a renewed commitment to the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty, the ratification of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty, and the conclusion of a Fissile Material Cut-Off Treaty.
    For information, see: http://www.pugwash.org/reports/pac/
    55/hiroshima2005.htm
  11. 3rd Asia Economic Summit
    Date: July 28–29, 2005
    Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
    Organizers/Sponsors: Asian Strategy & Leadership Institute, with the collaboration/support of the Confederation of Indian Industry, China Development Institute, Keizai Koho Center, BusinessWeek, and DNM Strategies
    This was the 3rd in a series of annual summits organized by the Asian Strategy and Leadership Institute. The theme for the 2005 summit was "Asia on the Move: Enhancing Competitiveness, Expanding Opportunities." The goal was to expand investment, promote growth, and reconsolidate the economies of the region so as to enable Asia to regain its competitive edge. Government and business leaders, academics, researchers, diplomats, and policymakers from throughout the Asia Pacific region gathered to take stock of the shape of the global recovery and outlook for Asia, assess global and regional economic and strategic trends, assess policy shifts and their impact on Asia, and evaluate Asia's competitiveness and investment opportunities in the 21st century.
    For information, see: http://www.asli.com.my/documents/3rd_Asia_Economic_2005.pdf
  12. Strategies for East Asia Growth and Openness
    Date: August 1–2, 2005
    Location: Bogor, Indonesia
    Organizers/Sponsors: Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) Jakarta and the Australia-Japan Research Centre of the Australian National University, Canberra; with cooperation of the Japanese Ministry of Finance
    Representatives from international organizations and government agencies joined economic analysts from the region to examine the future direction of East Asian economic growth and the optimal strategies for growth and openness. Participants examined the rationale for and success of outward-looking growth strategies in East Asia, analyzed growth and openness in the region, examined the US and global current account imbalances and their impact on exchange rates, and discussed a macroeconomic policy review of Indonesia and New Zealand. Particular attention was paid to the recent trend toward preferential trade agreements, which the participants found to be of limited effectiveness in promoting growth. The removal of obstacles to foreign trade and FDI remained the key to promoting the growth of regional economies.
    The meeting also marked the launch of the East Asian Bureau of Economic Research, an electronic forum for high-quality economic research on issues facing the East Asian economies.
    For information, see: http://apseg.anu.edu.au/events/ev_conf.php
  13. Regional Workshop Launching the Asian Environmental Compliance and Enforcement Network (AECEN)
    Date: August 2–3, 2005
    Location: Manila, Philippines
    Organizers/Sponsors: Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID)
    The AECEN was officially launched in August to promote improved environmental compliance and enforcement policies and practices through counterpart exchange and information sharing. The regional workshop brought together more than 80 senior environmental officials, judges, lawyers, and civil society leaders from 13 Asian countries—Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Lao PDR, Pakistan, the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam—to develop AECEN programs and activities. Experts from ASEAN, the US Environmental Protection Agency, and the OECD also participated. The meeting endorsed the establishment of AECEN as a regional network platform for Asian country members at both the national and regional levels. Member countries issued a joint statement in support of improved environmental compliance and enforcement throughout the region.
    For information, see: http://www.adb.org/Documents/Events/2005/
    AECEN-Launch/default.asp
  14. Biosecurity Threats in the Asia-Pacific Region
    Date: August 8–11, 2005
    Location: Hawaii, US
    Organizers/Sponsors: Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies (APCSS) and the Center of Excellence in Disaster Relief and Humanitarian Assistance
    More than 40 civilian and military participants attended this conference, representing such key institutions as the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, the Center for the Study of Weapons of Mass Destruction, and others. Also included were medical personnel, academics, and researchers. The conference focused on natural and man-made medical threats facing the Asia Pacific, especially pandemic diseases such as avian flu, SARS, and other naturally occurring diseases. The goals of the conference were (1) to share perspectives on biosecurity threats; (2) discuss challenges facing the United States and its Asian partners in responding to these threats, (3) examine policy planning and coordination, and (4) recommend improvements that could mitigate future outbreaks. Participants felt that the necessary institutions existed, but that capacity building, network building, resources, and political will were key to effectively meeting the challenges to the region.
    For information, see: http://www.apcss.org/Conference/Conference%20
    Future%20Summary.htm#C1
  15. Senior Policy Seminar 2005
    Date: August 8–10, 2005
    Location: Hawaii, US
    Organizers/Sponsors: East-West Center
    Organized by the East-West Center, this annual seminar brings together senior and influential policymakers, government officials, and academic experts from the United States and the Asia Pacific region for discussions on the economic, social, and strategic dynamics and the future of US policy in the region. The 2005 seminar examined the Asia Pacific policy agenda for the second Bush administration, perceptions of the United States in Asia, large power relations in the region, the major economic and security challenges facing the region, the implications of domestic political changes for regional relations, and transnational issues and regional cooperation. The meeting concluded with a wrap-up session that considered the implications of the discussions for national policies and for the regional architecture.
    For information, see: http://www.eastwestcenter.org/semedu-program.asp?program_ID=8&
    Topic=Leaders%20ZZ%20Policymakers&Area=Seminars
  16. CSCAP Study Group on Enhancing the Effectiveness of the Campaign Against International Terrorism With Specific Reference to the Asia-Pacific Region
    Date: August 9–10, 2005
    Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
    Organizers/Sponsors: Council for Security Cooperation in Asia Pacific (CSCAP); co-chaired by CSCAP-Malaysia, CSCAP-New Zealand, and CSCAP-Thailand
    This was the second and final meeting of a CSCAP study group on terrorism. The group finalized its recommendations in a memorandum that was presented to the 24th CSCAP Steering Committee on December 5, 2005. The memorandum presents a working definition of terrorism as "organized violence employed against civilians for a political purpose." It particularly addressed international terrorism as personified in the al Quaeda network and other related groups. The group set forth 10 key recommendations, encouraging regional governments to assert greater political will for engagement in strong multilateral cooperation in order to counter terrorism, take a comprehensive approach to the issue, and promote good governance at home as a key step in creating an environment that is impervious to exploitation by terrorist groups.
    For information, see: http://www.vuw.ac.nz/css/Mem%20Terrorism.pdf
  17. United States, Japan, and China Relations: Trilateral Cooperation in the 21st Century
    Date: August 15–17, 2005
    Location: Hawaii, US
    Organizers/Sponsors: Pacific Forum CSIS, in collaboration with the Research Institute for Peace and Security (RIPS), Japan, and the China Institute for Contemporary International Relations (CICIR)
    The Pacific Forum, RIPS, and the CICIR have convened a series of policy dialogues aimed at strengthening the trilateral relationship. In August 2005, they were joined by the East-West Center to convene the 9th trilateral dialogue, bringing together about 30 analysts from the three countries to exchange views, clarify perceptions, and identify building blocks to improve relations. Participants highlighted the possibilities of, need for, and obstacles to good trilateral relations. In retrospect, it was felt that the terrorist attacks of September 11 created new opportunities for trilateral cooperation, but those efforts had been hampered by widening social divisions in each country that restrict each government's room to maneuver. An increasingly important focus was energy security, given that the United States, China, and Japan are three of the world's four largest primary commercial energy users. A report on the conference is available online.
    For information, see: http://www.csis.org/media/csis/pubs/issuesinsights_v05n10.pdf
  18. Forum on Water Issues in Southeast Asia: Present Trends and Future Directions
    Date: August 16–17, 2006
    Location: Singapore
    Organizers/Sponsors: Institute of Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS)
    In the 21st century, we may be faced with a global water shortage that has the potential to create conflicts. This major regional two-day forum, involving the business community, academics, and the public sector, examined trends of managing water in Southeast Asia. Participants examined such issues as rural irrigation, watershed management, conservation, transboundary management, public-private sector partnerships, privatization, recycling, and desalination. The first session focused on China and the potential for conflict over water between Asian states. This was followed by a discussion of the Mekong River and the regional security implications of resource development. Another session looked at privatization and water supply management in Malaysia and in the region as a whole, while other sessions focused on the experiences of Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
    For information, see: http://www.iseas.edu.sg/16aug05a.html
  19. International Convention of Asia Scholars (ICAS) 4
    Date: August 20–24, 2005
    Location: Shanghai
    Organizers/Sponsors: Association for Asian Studies (AAS), the European Associations for Asian Studies, and the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS); hosted by the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences
    The concept of ICAS was born from a desire by the AAS and IIAS to broaden the scope of Asian studies and increase international cooperation among scholars. Since 1995, the AAS, the IIAS, and the European Associations for Asian Studies had been thinking of ways of internationalizing Asian studies. This developed into ICAS. More than 1000 specialists in the field of Asian studies gathered to discuss such themes as Politics between the Local and the National; History, the Cutting Edge of the Present; Environment and Society: Linking the Rural and Urban Dilemma; Media and Communication: Crouching Tiger meets Hidden Dragon; Religion, Interfaith Dialogue; and Made in China? Neo-Liberalism and the Future of the World.
    For information, see: http://www.icassecretariat.org/index.php?q=node/9
  20. IDSS-NBR Conference—Contending Perspectives: Southeast Asian and American Views on a Rising China
    Date: August 22–24, 2005
    Location: Singapore
    Organizers/Sponsors: Institute of Defence and Strategic Studies (IDSS) and the National Bureau of Asian Research (NBR); in collaboration with the US Army War College and the Bureau of Intelligence and Research, US Department of State
    This two-day event featured three panels, each with specialists from the United States and Southeast Asia, that examined the following topics: 1) China's decade-long rapid economic growth and its effect on the region's export-led economies, 2) Beijing's increasing political influence and its effect on the diplomatic landscape in Southeast Asia, and 3) China's military modernization and its emergence as a major power in Asia. The US reaction to a growing China was seen as an important factor. Southeast Asia generally perceives the rise of China as an opportunity rather than a threat, although the nations are divided on the extent to which they individually interact with China. Finally, the participants noted that China's military modernization is unable to contend with US capabilities, but may pose a greater challenge to the United States and might be used to achieve energy security.
    For information, see: http://www.nbr.org/programs/southeast/index.html#contending
    http://www.nbr.org/programs/southeast/Conf_Report082205.pdf
  21. 3rd Annual Conference of the Network of East Asian Think-Tanks (NEAT)
    Date: August 22–23, 2005
    Location: Tokyo, Japan
    Organizers/Sponsors: Network of East Asian Think-Tanks (NEAT); Japan Forum on International Relations (JFIR)
    The 3rd meeting of this annual conference was attended by participants from the ASEAN+3 countries. The main theme was "Towards an East Asian Community." Sessions were dedicated to discussions of six reports from working groups that had been established in 2004: Overall Architecture of Community Building in East Asia; East Asian Investment Cooperation; East Asian Financial Cooperation; Energy Security Cooperation in East Asia; Promoting Economic Integration in East Asia through Resolving New Global Imbalances; and Concepts, Ideas, and Empowering Guidelines for East Asia. The findings were then submitted as reference documents for the December 2005 ASEAN+3 Summit.
    For information, see: http://www.neat.org.cn/english/hysj/contentshow.php?content_id=55
  22. Regional Strategic and Political Developments Forum
    Date: August 24, 2005
    Location: Singapore
    Organizers/Sponsors: Institute of Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS)
    Southeast Asia has witnessed significant political and security developments over the last few years. While the region is still vulnerable to transnational threats such as terrorism and separatist insurgencies, Southeast Asian states are under pressure to build their national capacities in forging the kind of stability and security that are essential for continued peace and growth. Through a series of elections in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore, a new generation of political leaders has come to power. A new king has come to the throne in Cambodia, and Vietnam will see a change of government leaders at the 10th Party National Congress next year. Much is expected of the region's leadership in forging stronger regional cooperation while they attempt to manage their domestic constituencies. The 2005 ISEAS Regional Strategic and Political Developments Forum focused on these and other developments. It examined broad trends in regional security and in domestic politics and security, as well as the situations in specific countries, including Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.
    For information, see: http://www.iseas.edu.sg/24aug05a.html
  23. CSCAP Study Group on Human Trafficking in the Asia-Pacific Region
    Date: August 28–29, 2005
    Location: Bangkok, Thailand
    Organizers/Sponsors: Council for Security Cooperation in Asia Pacific (CSCAP)
    This was the second meeting of the CSCAP study group on human trafficking in the Asia Pacific region. At the first meeting, participants had decided to address six key areas: legislation, capacity building, regional arrangements, victim support, public awareness, and crime type convergence. Eleven national CSCAP committees were represented at the second meeting, along with representatives from various nongovernmental organizations. At the end of the meeting it was decided that a draft memorandum would be prepared for the 24th CSCAP Steering Committee meeting in December 2005.
    For information, see: http://www.cscap.org
    http://www.vuw.ac.nz/css/docs/CSCAP_Reports_Contributions/2005/HTSGRptAug05.pdf#
    search=%22CSCAP%20Study%20Group%20on%20Human%20Trafficking
    %20in%20the%20Asia-Pacific%20Region%22
  24. 2nd Southeast Asia Water Forum
    Date: August 29–September 3, 2005
    Location: Bali, Indonesia
    Organizers/Sponsors: Global Water Partnership-Southeast Asia, the Directorate General of Water Resources, Ministry of Settlement and Regional Infrastructure, and Indonesia Water Partnership; with the support of the Asian Development Bank (ADB)
    Although Southeast Asia is a water-rich region, it is also one of the most populated regions of the world. Nearly 33 percent of the population lives in urban areas; this is expected to increase further by about 3 percent annually. Given the importance of water resources in the region, it is imperative to address water management issues at various levels. In November 2003, the Southeast Asia Water Forum (SEAWF) was conducted to define specific recommendations to address the water issues in the region. The 2nd SEAWF aimed to build a regional commitment toward integrated water resources management and effective water governance among key stakeholders.
    For information, see: http://www.adb.org/Documents/Events/2005/2SEAWF/default.asp
  25. 13th Annual Workshop of the Framework on Regional Cooperation for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights in the Asia-Pacific Region
    Date: August 30–September 2, 2005
    Location: Beijing, China
    Organizers/Sponsors: Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCR) and the government of the People's Republic of China
    One hundred fifty delegates from member states, national human rights institutions, subregional organizations, NGOs, and United Nations agencies took part in this annual workshop. The 2005 meeting focused on the future of the Asia-Pacific Framework and reviewed progress achieved in the four areas identified within the framework for technical cooperation in human rights in the region: national human rights institutions; national human rights action plans; human rights education; and the realization of the right to development and of economic, social, and cultural rights. Particular attention was given to the role of regional cooperation in combating human trafficking.
    For information, see: http://www.aseanhrmech.org/news/2005/workshop-in-beijing.html
    http://www.aseanhrmech.org/news/2005/WG-leaders.html
  26. 5th Asian International Forum in Fukuoka—Envisioning an "East Asian Community"
    Date: August 31–September 1, 2005
    Location: Fukuoka, Japan
    Organizers/Sponsors: Fukuoka Prefecture, Fukuoka City, and the Organizing Committee of the Asian International Forum in Fukuoka
    At this forum, Asian, European, and American economic experts of leading think tanks involved in governmental policymaking in their respective countries/regions discussed Asia's present and future developments. The forum focused on the forthcoming East Asia Summit. Participants felt that the summit meeting was bound to be a major milestone in the dynamic process of East Asian regional cooperation, of equal importance to the launching of the Asia-Europe Meeting process (ASEM) in 1996. Several key issues for the agenda of the summit were discussed, including the overall vision and goals of the Community; its membership and leadership; the diversity within the region; the historical legacies dividing East Asian nations and peoples; and immediate first steps to be agreed to in Kuala Lumpur. Discussions also focused on whether and how the East Asian Community would be distinct from ASEAN.
    For information, see: http://www.eias.org/conferences/2005/fukuoa010905.html
  27. East Asian Economic Integration: Reality and Vision
    Date: September 2, 2005
    Location: Seoul, Korea
    Organizers/Sponsors: Korea Institute for International Economic Policy (KIEP)
    KIEP held an international seminar in order to discuss the future of East Asian economic integration. In the wake of the Asian financial crisis, East Asia began to seriously consider economic regionalism. Since 1997, the ASEAN+3 Summit Meeting has become an annual event, serving as the basic institutional framework for regional economic cooperation. In 2001, the East Asian Vision Group submitted a report to the leaders of ASEAN+3, in which it recommended the formation of an East Asian Free Trade Area (EAFTA) well ahead of the Bogor goals set by APEC. Recently, five FTAs have been concluded among East Asian countries, and many more FTA negotiations are underway. In addition, various initiatives are underway to enhance financial cooperation among the ASEAN+3 countries. This seminar gathered experts from throughout the Asia Pacific region to discuss the de facto integration that has been occurring, the trends in East Asian FTAs, and financial integration. The final session asked "how to envision an East Asian Community."
    For information, see: http://www.kiep.go.kr/eng/e_sub02/sub01_1.asp?sort=&hdate=2005-09-02
    &seq=20050829163940&p=2&class=01&keytype=&keyword=
  28. 15th New Generation Seminar—Health Issues in the Asia Pacific Region
    Date: September 4–18, 2005
    Location: Honolulu/Bangkok/Hong Kong
    Organizers/Sponsors: East-West Center; supported by the Freeman Foundation
    Each year the East-West Center invites rising young leaders from the United States and Asia Pacific to participate in the New Generation Seminar, a two-week intensive educational and dialogue program. The program is developed around a thematic focus and provides participants with an opportunity to strengthen their understanding of regional developments and challenges, increase their contacts with counterparts in the region, and become more effective leaders with an international perspective. The 2005 New Generation Seminar included 15 emerging leaders representing Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Marshall Islands, the Philippines, the United States, and Vietnam. Participants spent one week in Honolulu, exploring broad Asia Pacific regional issues and a second week on a study tour to Bangkok and Hong Kong to explore the theme of "Health Issues in the Asia Pacific Region."
    For information, see: http://www.eastwestcenter.org/events-ce-detail.asp?conf_ID=357
  29. 16th General Meeting of the Pacific Economic Cooperation Council (PECC)
    Date: September 6–7, 2005
    Location: Seoul, Korea
    Organizers/Sponsors: Pacific Economic Cooperation Council (PECC); Korea National Committee for Pacific Economic Cooperation (KOPEC)
    About 700 academics and government and business officials gathered in Seoul to explore ways of promoting further economic cooperation in the Asia Pacific region. During the two-day meeting, participants discussed strategies to accelerate progress toward an "Asia Pacific community" in light of the new global economic and political environment. The overall theme of the meeting was "Toward a Pacific Community: Renewing the Commitment." Specific topics included squaring FTAs with the Bogor goals; private-public partnership for infrastructure development; the trans-Pacific imbalance; and the next steps toward a Pacific Community.
    The PECC, a biennial gathering, was founded in 1980 and is the only nongovernmental official observer of APEC. Expert representatives from each of the 25 member states, as well as from multilateral institutions and private sectors, spoke at the meeting on trade, finance, and community building.
    For information, see: http://www.peccxvi.org/
  30. Launch of the Regional Millennium Development Goals (MDG) II Report
    Date: September 7, 2005
    Location: Manila, Philippines
    Organizers/Sponsors: UNESCAP, UNDP, and the Asian Development Bank (ADB)
    A new report assessing the region's progress to date on reaching the MDGs was launched at ADB headquarters in Manila by senior officials from UNESCAP, UNDP, and Athe DB. The event included a conference and roundtable seminar organized to present and discuss the findings and recommendations. Entitled "A Future Within Reach: Reshaping Institutions in a Region of Disparities to Meet the Millennium Development Goals in Asia and the Pacific," the publication also outlines recommendations for improving success in the 10 years remaining to the 2015 MDG deadline. Participants included senior government officials, representatives of civil society organizations, NGOs, academics from Asia and the Pacific region, and representatives of bilateral and multilateral development agencies, who sought to develop approaches to achieving the MDG targets.
    For information, see: http://www.unescap.org/mdgap/events/Launch%20ADB%20Manila%207
    %20Sep%202005/2005-09-1-Lauch.htm
  31. Meeting on the Straits of Malacca and Maritime Security
    Date: September 7, 2005
    Location: Jakarta, Indonesia
    Organizers/Sponsors: International Maritime Organization (IMO); hosted by the government of Indonesia; with the cooperation of the governments of Malaysia and Singapore
    This meeting gathered leading government and industry officials to take stock of the existing arrangements on, and to seek convergence on the perception of likely threats to, the safety of navigation in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore. Participants considered the actions necessary to contribute to the building of confidence among the various stakeholders in order to address the demands of safety, security, and environmental protection while, at the same time, respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the three littoral states and the relevant provisions of international law, in particular the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
    For information, see: http://www.imo.org/
  32. Perspectives on Asia-Pacific Security for the 21st Century
    Date: September 12–13, 2005
    Location: Hawaii, US
    Organizers/Sponsors: Asia Pacific Center for Security Studies (APCSS)
    The APCSS sponsored a forum to examine security issues and their implications for theater security cooperation in the region. The goal of the symposium was to foster security cooperation and multilateral dialogue among officials and experts from throughout the Asia Pacific region, at the governmental as well as nongovernmental level. The conference sought to elicit fresh perspectives on Asia Pacific security from throughout the region. It was organized around broad security themes linked to theater security cooperation, including a retrospective look at security cooperation, discussing transnational threats, comprehensive security issues, and the future security focus for the region. One focus of discussion was the recent shift toward a broader concept of security that incorporates nontraditional security issues and that recognizes the existence of non-state and anti-state actors that require different paradigms of state action and interstate cooperation.
    For information, see: http://www.apcss.org/core/Conference/CR_ES/
    Perspectices%20Exec%20Summ.doc
  33. Ten Years of ASEM
    Date: September 14–15, 2005
    Location: Helsinki, Finland
    Organizers/Sponsors: University of Helsinki Network for European Studies, in cooperation with the Japan Center for International Exchange (JCIE)
    The 7th ASEM Foreign Ministers' Meeting (FMM7) in May 2005 endorsed an initiative by Finland and Japan to commission a critical review of the first decade of ASEM. With Finland's hosting of the next summit (ASEM6) in September 2006 in mind, an international conference on "Ten Years of ASEM" was held to reflect on past achievements, present conditions, and future directions of the Asia-Europe Meeting. The conference engaged not only academics and independent think tanks, but also government officials and representatives from the EU Commission in a discussion on multiple issues related to the ASEM process of informal dialogue in the political, economic, and social/cultural arenas. Brainstorming sessions were held to generate fresh perspectives for ASEM6 and on the future of this dialogue forum in general. The conference was organized as part of an ongoing research project conducted in collaboration with JCIE.
    For information, see: http://www.eias.org/conferences/2005/tenasem140905.html
  34. High-Level Conference on Asian Economic Community: Vision of a New Asia
    Date: September 15–16, 2005
    Location: Taiyuan, China
    Organizers/Sponsors: Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS), India; in collaboration with Shanxi University of Finance & Economics, China; supported by the Sasakawa Peace Foundation (Japan), and the Taiyuan Municipal Government, Shanxi Consolidation of Social Science, and Shanxi Foreign Exchange and Consulting Center (China)
    Eminent scholars from China, India, Japan, and ASEAN countries participated in this conference, along with senior officials of regional development institutions such as the Asian Development Bank and UNESCAP. Participants at this meeting, which was the third in a series, discussed the relevance of an Asian economic community and the implications of the upcoming East Asia Summit; China and India's roles as co-drivers of Asian growth and prosperity; the building blocks of Asian regional integration; monetary and financial integration in Asia; and the strategic implications of such integration. Participants saw a need for evolving an Asian identity as a step toward creating "One Asia." For this, people-to-people contacts and interaction between think tanks were viewed as important.
    For information, see: http://www.ris.org.in/
    http://www.newasiaforum.org/third_highlevel_building
    _a_new_asia_conference.htm
  35. Conference on Strengthening the Korea-ASEAN Relationship
    Date: September 15, 2005
    Location: Singapore
    Organizers/Sponsors: Institute of Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS), Singapore, and the Institute of Foreign Affairs and National Security (IFANS), Korea; funded by the Korea Foundation
    This one-day meeting brought together Korean and ASEAN country scholars to examine the state of relations between Korea and the ASEAN nations. The meeting began with an overview of the respective regional security environments and security challenges facing ASEAN and Korea. Participants then focused on non-traditional security threats, economic cooperation (including a Korea-ASEAN FTA), ASEAN-Korea cooperation in the development of the new members of ASEAN, and ASEAN-Korea cooperation toward strengthening East Asia integration. Each session offered both the Korean and ASEAN perspectives on the issues.
    For information, see: http://www.iseas.edu.sg/15sep05a.html
  36. Growing Integration of the Greater Mekong: Sub-regional ASEAN States in Asian Region
    Date: September 19–22, 2005
    Location: Yangon, Myanmar
    Organizers/Sponsors: Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS), in collaboration with the Myanmar Institute of Strategic and International Studies (MISIS)
    This workshop focused on the many aspects of regional integration of ASEAN states in the Greater Mekong sub-region, particularly Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Vietnam. Among other issues, participants discussed the roles and relationships of major Asian powers and the Greater Mekong Sub-Regional ASEAN states; and the integration of Greater Mekong sub-regional ASEAN states in the Southeast and East Asian context with reference to the security, economic, and socio-cultural spheres. The meeting also focused on the states in the region, discussing the issues, possibilities, and challenges they face as cooperation and integration grow.
    For information, see: http://www.kas-asia.org/Conferences.htm
  37. Promotion of Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency, and Greenhouse Gas Abatement (PREGA) Sub-regional Workshop (Mekong, East, and Southeast Asia)
    Date: September 19–22, 2005
    Location: Beijing, China
    Organizers/Sponsors: Asian Development Bank (ADB)
    The ADB conducted a sub-regional workshop in Beijing under its PREGA program. The workshop aimed to bring key national counterpart agency representatives and national technical experts from participating PREGA countries in the Mekong, East Asia, and Southeast Asia regions (China, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Mongolia, the Philippines, and Vietnam). Each country team presented the status of activities under Phase 2 of the PREGA project. The workshop also served as a venue for information and knowledge exchange on implementation of technologies and financial strategies in the areas of energy efficiency, renewable energy, and other greenhouse gas abatement measures.
    For information, see: http://www.adb.org/Documents/Events/2005/
    Prega-Subregional-Workshop/default.asp
  38. 14th Northeast Asia Economic Forum (NEAEF)
    Date: September 20–22, 2005
    Location: Shenyang, China
    Organizers/Sponsors: Hosted by Northeast Asia Economic Forum (NEAEF) and the Shenyang Municipal Government
    The 14th annual NEAEF was held in Shenyang, China. The two-day forum examined such issues as the future of Northeast Asia, energy markets in the region, the revitalization of northeast China, and regional cooperation. Participants issued the Shenyang Declaration at the end of the meeting, under which they agreed to conduct joint activities for the implementation of a "Grand Design for Northeast Asia," which is to serve as a guideline for the promotion of sustainable development in the region. In the field of energy, Northeast Asian neighbors were encouraged to cooperate in diversifying the region's sources of oil and natural gas, thereby enhancing regional energy security.
    The NEAEF is a regional, nongovernmental organization that sponsors and facilitates research, networking, and dialogue relevant to the economic and social development of the region. The forum is also committed to promoting understanding and relations among the peoples of Northeast Asia and North America.
    For information, see: http://www.neaef.org/
    http://china.org.cn/english/2005/Sep/143171.htm
  39. Regional Transnational Security Initiatives/Homeland Security Summit
    Date: September 20–23, 2005
    Location: Hawaii, US
    Organizers/Sponsors: State of Hawaii
    Hosted by the Hawaii State Government with various nongovernmental partners and sponsored by multiple private sector organizations, the summit was attended by more than 900 delegates from throughout the United States and from other countries including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Chile, Comoros, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kiribati, Korea, Madagascar, Malaysia, Maldives, the Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Micronesia, Mongolia, Nauru, Nepal, New Zealand, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Russia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor Leste, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, and Vietnam. State and local homeland security officials, military and business leaders, scholars, and senior diplomats gathered for detailed discussions of counter-terrorism and homeland security. Discussions focused on the development of innovative response strategies to the threat of terrorism in the region, focusing on leadership and policy, law enforcement, and counter-terrorism regional outreach.
    For information, see: http://www.apcss.org/Conference/Conference%20
    Future%20Summary.htm#C1
  40. Institutionalizing Northeast Asia: Making the Impossible Possible?
    Date: September 21–22, 2005
    Location: Tokyo, Japan
    Organizers/Sponsors: United Nations University (UNU) and Aoyama Gakuin University
    This event featured a closed workshop followed by an open symposium attended by regional experts from Australia, Canada, China, Japan, Korea, the United States, and international organizations such as the Asian Development Bank. Agenda topics included theories for regionalization and institutionalization, historical considerations, identity, traditional and non-traditional security, economics and energy, the environment, migration and human rights, and how far cooperation in these fields has been institutionalized in Northeast Asia.
    For information, see: http://www.sipeb-square.net/sipeb-blog/d-office/archives/
    2005/08/9.html
  41. Southeast Asia and "Rising" China: A Political Economy Perspective on US Interests and Policies
    Date: September 21, 2005
    Location: Washington DC, US
    Organizers/Sponsors: Henry L. Stimson Center
    The Southeast Asia Project of the Stimson Center held a roundtable discussion to assess the nature and implications of the growing economic integration of the ASEAN countries with China. The discussion addressed broader US policy issues presented by China's fast expanding regional role and influence; challenges to individual Southeast Asian countries arising from increased competitive pressure on politically sensitive economic sectors; and specific US initiatives to promote expanded trade and investment ties with ASEAN, including additional free trade agreements (FTAs) and export promotion programs. The participants in the program included Southeast Asia and China specialists from local academic and policy research institutions, representatives of the international business community, and US government officials involved with Southeast Asian policy issues.
    For information, see: http://www.stimson.org/southeastasia/?SN=SE20060111940
  42. 7th Steering Group Meeting of the ADB-OECD Anti-Corruption Initiative for Asia and the Pacific
    Date: September 26–27, 2005
    Location: Beijing, China
    Organizers/Sponsors: Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)
    Steering Group meetings provide a regular opportunity to discuss and review on-going and planned anti-corruption efforts, achievements, and priorities and to report on progress in the implementation of the Anti-Corruption Action Plan for Asia-Pacific. The 7th Steering Group Meeting had three main objectives: 1) to report on recent anti-corruption reform projects; 2) to complete the steering group's review process on implementing the action plan's standards for curbing corruption in public procurement; and 3) to assess trends in countries' overall compliance with the standards and principles of the action plan. Participants included focal points from the 25 countries that have endorsed the action plan, members of the advisory group to the steering group, senior government officials from observer countries interested in joining the Initiative, and representatives of relevant international institutions interested in supporting the Action Plan implementation process.
    For information, see: http://www.adb.org/Documents/Events/2005/ADB-OECD-AntiCorruption
    /7th-SGM/default.asp#participants
  43. 1st ASEAN+3 Youth Forum on Friendship and Cooperation
    Date: September 26–October 1, 2005
    Location: Beijing, China
    Organizers/Sponsors: ASEAN; All-China Youth Federation
    Youth from around the Asian region were invited to a forum in Beijing. The agenda of the meeting was to strengthen mutual cooperation and to promote common development and vision among ASEAN, China, Japan, and Korea. A representative from each participating country delivered a speech. A Young Entrepreneur's Forum was also scheduled to take place.
    For information, see: http://www.brudirect.com/DailyInfo/News/Archive/Sept05/280905
    /nite09.htm
  44. The Proposed East Asian Community—Inventing a New Framework for Peace and Security in Northeast Asia
    Date: September 26, 2005
    Location: Tokyo, Japan
    Organizers/Sponsors: Strategic Peace & International Affairs Research Institute (SPIRIT), Tokai University (Japan)
    This meeting was held in anticipation of the December 2005 East Asia Summit, which was expected to represent a significant step forward in integration. On the other hand, obstacles to such integration still exist, as seen by the recent tensions between Japan and China, and Japan and Korea, along with the cautious note being sounded by the United States on Asian integration. Participants from Japan, Korea, China, the United States, and Australia gathered to discuss the EAC concept as it relates to regional politics in Northeast Asia, the issues between "South" and "North" in Asia, and security issues in Asia.
    For information, see: http://www.tokai.ac.jp/SPIRIT/e/activity/20050926e.html
    http://www.tokai.ac.jp/SPIRIT/activity/symposium/20050926.html
  45. A Grand Design for Northeast Asia: Phase III—2nd International Workshop
    Date: September 28, 2005
    Location: Anyang, Korea
    Organizers/Sponsors: National Institute for Research Advancement (NIRA), Japan; National Development and Reform Commission, China; and the Korean Research Institute for Human Settlements
    This was the second of three international workshops held in this third phase. The main focus was on development of strategic industrial clusters and eco-tourism in Northeast Asia. Local site visits were arranged to the North-South national border, KINTEX (Korean International Trade Exposition), and a special symposium on the comprehensive development of the Korean peninsula's infrastructure.
    For information, see: http://www.nira.go.jp/newsj/kanren/160/167/gaiyou.html
  46. ASEAN 100 Leadership Forum—Southeast Asia in Transition: Where to From Here?
    Date: September 28–29, 2005
    Location: Singapore
    Organizers/Sponsors: Asia Inc. Forum
    The ASEAN 100 Leadership Forum is a highly interactive meeting for one hundred outstanding Southeast Asians from business, government, and civil society. The forum focuses explicitly on new and emerging leadership. It brings together outstanding Southeast Asian men and women who are expected to play key leadership roles in government, business, and civil society in the next five years. Participants engaged in dialogue and debate on key issues and challenges facing the region and their implications for business and politics. In particular, the meeting featured active debate on the future of Southeast Asia in light of leadership transitions in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, and of the economic reemergence of China and India.
    For information, see: http://www.asiaincforum.com/event_asean100.htm
  47. 5th Regional Anti-corruption Conference of the ADB-OECD Anti-corruption Initiative for Asia and the Pacific
    Date: September 28–30, 2005
    Location: Beijing, China
    Organizers/Sponsors: Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)
    The 5th Regional Anti-corruption Conference was composed of two plenary sessions and six capacity-building workshops designed to give participants an opportunity to enhance their practical knowledge in applying anti-corruption tools and to learn about tested methods to combat corruption in specific areas. The workshops also built on the intergovernmental and intersectoral cooperation of the ADB/OECD initiative to further advance regional and worldwide judicial cooperation and to foster supportive measures by governments to strengthen private sector ethics.
    Participants included representatives from the 25 countries that have endorsed the ABD OECD Anti-corruption Action Plan, senior government representatives from other Asian and Pacific countries, representatives from nongovernmental organizations actively involved in combating corruption in the Asia Pacific region, internationally recognized experts from ADB countries, and members of the OECD Working Group on Bribery.
    For information, see: http://www.adb.org/Documents/Events/2005/ADB-OECD-AntiCorruption/
    5th-RACC/default.asp
  48. IDSS–Ford Foundation 2nd Dissemination Workshop—Non-traditional Security in Asia: Understanding the Dynamics of Securitisation in Asia
    Date: October 2–3, 2005
    Location: Bangkok, Thailand
    Organizers/Sponsors: Institute for Defence and Strategic Studies (IDSS), Singapore; the Ford Foundation; and the Faculties of Political Science and International Relations of Chulalongkorn University and Thammasat University
    The Program on Non-traditional Security (NTS) Issues in Southeast Asia is administered by the Institute of Defence and Strategic Studies at Nanyang Technological University and is funded by the Ford Foundation. The objective of the program is to facilitate discussion on non-traditional aspects of security as they relate to Southeast Asia in the post–Cold War regional security environment. Twenty-six researches were commissioned to conduct studies encompassing aspects of globalization, regional institutions, governance in plural societies, and environmental security in individual states or the region as a whole.
    The October 2005 seminar was held to share the findings of the studies with a wider audience beyond the academic community and to help the wider community understand how and why certain NTS issues need to be securitized or desecuritized in order for various actors, both state and non-state, to respond to these challenges adequately.
    For information, see: http://www.idss-nts.org/activities/dissemination_seminars.htm
  49. Regional Conference on Civil Society Engagement in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
    Date: October 3–5, 2005
    Location: Bangkok, Thailand
    Organizers/Sponsors: South East Asian Committee for Advocacy (SEACA), Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA), Asian Partnership for Development of Human Resources in Rural Areas (AsiaDHRRA), and Sustainability Watch-Asia
    This conference gathered 78 representatives of various civil society organizations and networks to discuss ASEAN as a platform for pro-poor advocacy in Southeast Asia; the current and strategic role of ASEAN in Southeast Asian development, the political and economic dynamics of ASEAN, and ASEAN's positions on key advocacy issues of civil society in the region. Participants also discussed how Southeast Asian civil society could use mechanisms for participation in policymaking within ASEAN for pro-poor policy advocacy. Panel sessions were held on the role of ASEAN in relation to agriculture, migrants, security, human rights, the environment, and urban development.
    For information, see: http://www.seaca.net/viewArticle.php?aID=829
    http://www.seaca.net/viewSection.php?sID=110
  50. 2nd NCAFP Trilateral US-Japan-Republic of Korea Roundtable
    Date: October 3, 2005
    Location: New York, US
    Organizers/Sponsors: National Committee on American Foreign Policy (NCAFP), the Japan Institute of International Affairs (JIIA), and the International Policy Studies Institute of Korea (IPSIKOR)
    This was the 2nd in a series of meetings of security specialists from the United States and its two Northeast Asian allies, Japan and South Korea. Current and former government officials as well as academics were in attendance. The earlier meeting was held in Tokyo in January 2005, while a third round was scheduled for Seoul in April 2006. The purpose of these meetings is to provide an opportunity for policy analysts from the three sides to engage in frank and forthright dialogue out of the media spotlight, to talk about current and longer-range issues, as well as to chart a common strategy for dealing with security challenges. This meeting concentrated on four issues: Japan and the "history" issue; the rise of China; the North Korean nuclear problem; and mechanisms for dealing with regional security.
    For information, see: http://www.ncafp.org/projects/NEasia/roundoct05_zagoria.htm
  51. Japan's Foreign and Security Policies: Alternatives, Drivers, and Implications
    Date: October 4–6, 2005
    Location: Tokyo, Japan
    Organizers/Sponsors: Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies (APCSS)
    Japan's foreign and security policies are of critical importance to long-term regional stability and US interests in the Asia Pacific region. This conference brought together 40 American, Japanese, and other Asian participants from the government, academia, and other research organizations to address three topics: 1) the ongoing debate within Japan about foreign and security policy alternatives; 2) the various factors that shape Japan's decisions regarding its foreign and security policies; and 3) the implications of possible alternative directions for the US-Japan alliance and key Asian security issues.
    Participants discussed the tension between Japan's alliance with the United States and its participation in regional multilateralism. Japan has sought to bridge this tension by emphasizing trans-Pacific multilateralism that includes the United States. Japan's interest in regional economic multilateralism persists, and some participants warned that US criticism of such interests undermines Japan's efforts and that it would be in US interests to have Japan rather than China shaping regional economic efforts.
    For information, see: http://www.apcss.org
  52. Non-governmental Six-Party Talks on Cooperation in Northeast Asia
    Date: October 6, 2005
    Location: Beijing, China
    Organizers/Sponsors: Korean Association of International Studies (KAIS) and the Institute 21 for Peace Studies; supported by Ministry of Unification, Asan Foundation, Korea Foundation, Korea Research Foundation
    In October 2005, KAIS hosted the Non-governmental Six-Party Talks on Cooperation in Northeast Asia: Issues and Agenda. Inspired by the government-level Six-Party Talks, this conference used a similar format, but it tried to address a wider variety of issues in Northeast Asia at the civilian level. Participants presented civilian perspectives on major issues related to multilateral regional cooperation. KAIS invited scholars from all six countries concerned. (Unfortunately, they did not succeed in having North Korean scholars at the conference.) Panels focused on multilateral approaches to peace building in Northeast Asia and cooperation in both traditional and non-traditional areas of security.
    For information, see: http://www.kaisnet.or.kr/Upfile/News/(3).pdf
  53. ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Expert Eminent Persons Workshop
    Date: October 10, 2005
    Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
    Organizers/Sponsors: ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS) Malaysia, and Singapore Institute for International Affairs (SIIA)
    ARF Expert Eminent Persons (EEPs) from ASEAN countries are nominated and registered by their respective governments as advisors to the ARF. They met for the first time for a workshop in October 2005 to discuss how the EEPs could assist the ARF in its confidence-building and preventive diplomacy mandate and functions. One of the outcomes of the workshop was the creation of an "ASEAN EEP Caucus," for which SIIA will provide information sharing and secretariat support as an interim measure.
    For information, see: http://www.aseanregionalforum.org/LinkClick.aspx?link
    http://www.aseansec.org%2feep-arf.pdf&mid=648
  54. China and Northeast Asian Energy Strategies
    Date: October 10–11, 2005
    Location: Beijing, China
    Organizers/Sponsors: Australia-Japan Research Centre and the China Economy and Business Program of the Australian National University; Energy Research Institute of China; Korea Energy Economics Institute; Institute of Energy Economics of Japan
    A major conference was held in October 2005 as the first event of a research project on China's role in Northeast Asian energy strategies. Issues discussed at the conference included Chinese energy demand and supply to 2020; prospects for international supplies of energy to China; issues and prospects: perspectives from Japan and Korea; energy market reform in the electric power sector in China; environmental issues and their impact on Chinese energy use; and rapid industrialization and the demand for energy and minerals: China and East Asia.
    For information, see: http://www.crawford.anu.edu.au/pdf/ajrc/annreport.pdf
  55. 2nd Meeting of the ASEAN-China Eminent Persons Group (EPG)
    Date: October 12–13, 2005
    Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
    Organizers/Sponsors: ASEAN
    The ASEAN-China Eminent Persons Group (EPG) was initiated at the 8th ASEAN-China Summit in November 2004 in Vientiane, Lao PDR, to take stock of the cooperation and recommend measures for strengthening future ASEAN-China dialogue relations as both sides commemorate the 15th year of relations in 2006. The ASEAN-China EPG met for the second time to deliberate on key challenges and opportunities in the growing relationship, the vision for future relations, and guiding principles that will support an enhanced ASEAN-China strategic partnership. They also identified a number of short-, medium-, and long-term measures to propel future relations. Following the meeting, a report was presented to ASEAN and the Chinese government.
    For information, see: http://www.aseansec.org/ASEAN-China-EPG.pdf
  56. Liberal International Women's Workshop and the Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats General Assembly
    Date: October 12–15, 2005
    Location: Taipei, Taiwan
    Organizers/Sponsors: Liberal International (LI), Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats (CALD), and Democratic Progressive Party of Taiwan; with support from the Friedrich Naumann Foundation and the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy
    LI is committed to promoting the role of women in political parties, an effort that was intensified with the initiation of a series of conferences and workshops on the role of women in political parties. In 2005, LI held a workshop and conference in Taiwan, organized jointly with CALD, with a regional focus on Asian political parties. This event involved women and men from the grassroots to the elite levels of political leadership. The event began with a workshop and training session designed for women planning to run for political office, plus political party staff and campaign workers. Second, an expanded conference was held, coinciding with the general assembly of CALD, involving women political leaders, party executives, and members interested in advancing women in politics through political parties. This event was hosted by the Democratic Progressive Party, which is the current chair party of CALD.
    For information, see: http://www.cald.org/website/LI-CALD%202005/li_cald.htm
  57. Asia-Pacific Security Forum: Old Challenges and New Developments in Asia Pacific Security
    Date: October 13–14, 2005
    Location: Taipei, Taiwan
    Organizers/Sponsors: Pacific Forum CSIS (US), the Institute for National Policy Research (Taiwan), the Institute for Strategic and Development Studies (Philippines), and the Institut Fran�ais des R�lations Internationales (ifri, France)
    The Asia-Pacific Security Forum is intended to promote greater awareness of regional security issues, including (but not limited to) the cross-Strait relationship. Since 1997, this forum has helped ensure that issues related to Taiwanese security are objectively discussed in the international arena. The 2005 forum addressed the theme of "Old Challenges and New Developments in Asia Pacific Security." The first panel examined Northeast Asian issues such as the future of US alliances in the region and the challenge of building a Northeast Asian Community, the potential for the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula, and a framework for reorganizing the regional security environment. The second session addressed the cross-Strait relationships and the implications for US-China relations. Finally, the third panel focused on Southeast Asia, its relations with the United States and China, and the security challenges facing that region.
    For information, see: http://www.tp.org.tw/events/detail.htm?id=20000161
  58. Vietnam-China–United States Trilateral Dialogue
    Date: October 20–22, 2005
    Location: Nha Trang, Vietnam
    Organizers/Sponsors: Asia Foundation, Vietnam Institute of International Relations
    The Asia Foundation and the Institute for International Relations co-organized a conference to examine the dynamics of the trilateral relationship between Vietnam, China, and the United States. The conference included presentations and discussions led by scholars and foreign affairs analysts from the three countries. The broad objectives of the conference were to identify key trends in Vietnamese, Chinese, and US foreign policies and the interrelationships among them; discuss traditional and non-traditional security challenges in East Asia, including possible solutions and areas of cooperation among the three countries; and examine regional cooperative mechanisms and initiatives aimed at enhancing security and promoting economic development. More than 30 leaders from Vietnamese, Chinese, and US universities, institutes, and organizations participated in the conference.
    For information, see: http://www.asiafoundation.org/IR/trilateral.html
  59. 11th Asia Pacific Agenda Project (APAP) Forum: Engaging the United States in an Emerging East Asia Community
    Date: October 23–24, 2005
    Location: Washington DC, US
    Organizers/Sponsors: Japan Center for International Exchange (JCIE), with the cooperation of the United States Asia Pacific Council (USAPC)
    Growing economic integration and political cooperation among countries in East Asia have increasingly been associated with aspirations to build an East Asia regional community, and it is crucial that the United States and East Asia remain constructively engaged in a dialogue about the community-building process. JCIE and the USAPC have launched a study and dialogue on this topic and in October 2005, a workshop was held in Washington DC with prominent experts from East Asia and the United States. The following day, the participants presented their arguments to the public at the USAPC Washington Conference (see below).
    For information, see: http://www.jcie.or.jp/thinknet/apap/forums/11th.html
  60. US Asia Pacific Council Washington Conference 2005
    Date: October 25, 2005
    Location: Washington DC, US
    Organizers/Sponsors: US Asia Pacific Council (USAPC)
    Fifteen distinguished scholars, former diplomats, and economists from the United States and Asia participated in USAPC's 3rd Annual Washington Conference entitled, "New Challenges in the Transpacific Partnership." The event featured panel discussions on such topics as the implications for the United States of the East Asian Summit, the compatibility of APEC with East Asian regionalism, China's changing role in Asia and the world, and transpacific imbalances. It effectively continued an examination of East Asian regionalism begun the day before in a program entitled "Engaging the United States in an Emerging East Asia Community" (see above).
    Participants observed that the United States appears indifferent to important economic and political changes in East Asia that are fostering creation of a regional community. They stressed that Washington should not ignore or resist such trends, but rather it should welcome closer regional cooperation. The group argued that by remaining engaged in the regional transformation, the United States provides a backdrop of economic and political stability.
    For information, see: http://www.usapc.org/
  61. Creating the East Asian Free Trade Area (EAFTA)
    Date: October 27, 2005
    Location: Seoul, Korea
    Organizers/Sponsors: Korea Institute for International Economic Policy (KIEP) and Japan Economic Foundation (JEF)
    FTA negotiations are in full swing in East Asia. As of March 2005, five FTAs had become effective and over 10 more were being considered. However, all of these agreements are bilateral or regional arrangements, such as the agreement between the ASEAN-plus-one and other nations. In terms of a regional FTA, East Asia undoubtedly lags behind the European Union, which has expanded to cover 25 countries, and the Americas, which has been pressing ahead with negotiations to develop NAFTA into the FTAA. Countries in this region recognize the need for an FTA in East Asia, but discussions on how to achieve this plan have yet to take place. This symposium discussed in detail the roadmap toward creating the EAFTA, focusing on issues that were identified during three earlier symposium discussions.
    For information, see: http://www.kiep.go.kr/eng/e_sub02/sub01_1.asp?sort=&hdate=2005-10-
    27&seq=20051024092442&p=2&class=01&keytype=&keyword=
  62. New Partnership for Energy Cooperation in Northeast Asia
    Date: October 28, 2005
    Location: Seoul, Korea
    Organizers/Sponsors: Korea Energy Economic Institute (KEEI) and Korea University
    This international conference on regional energy cooperation focused on how to improve cooperation between governments and the energy sector in implementing energy projects in Northeast Asia. Roughly 100 government officials and energy experts from Russia, China, Japan, France, and Korea attended the meeting. Sessions focused on "Changing International Environment for Energy Cooperation," "Toward a New Framework of Government-Business Cooperation," and "The Implementation of Northeast Asia Energy Cooperation Project."
    For information, see: http://www.neasiaenergy.net/nea%5Ce_publications.nsf/ByView00tot/B71355F9ABD6B2D9492570D00010FA2C?Open
    Document&viewname=00tot
  63. 3rd East Asia Forum
    Date: October 30–31, 2005
    Location: Beijing, China
    Organizers/Sponsors: Hosted by China Foreign Affairs University
    Established in 2003, the East Asia Forum is one of the 17 important cooperative measures under the framework of ASEAN+3, aiming at providing a platform for cross-sectoral dialogue and cooperation. The 3rd East Asia Forum was held in Beijing and was attended by nearly 100 government officials, scholars, and business leaders from ASEAN, China, Japan, and Korea. The delegates exchanged views on the future development, goals, policies, and existing problems of East Asia cooperation. The meeting affirmed that East Asia economic integration has become an inevitable trend and that countries should push forward with East Asia community building. Participants noted the success of the ASEAN+3 process in expanding and deepening exchanges and cooperation in various fields. They emphasized that East Asia should uphold open regionalism and inclusiveness and agreed that the East Asia Summit and other mechanisms such as "10+3" should be mutually complementary and make joint contributions to East Asia cooperation and the development of the world.
    For information, see: http://www.neat.org.cn/english/hysj/contentshow.php?content_id=62
  64. Joint Study Convention on East Asia Cooperation
    Date: October 30, 2005
    Location: Beijing, China
    Organizers/Sponsors: Network of East Asian Think-Tanks (NEAT)
    The Joint Study Convention on East Asian Cooperation was proposed by Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao at the ASEAN+3 Summit last year. It was meant to pool the academic resources in the region to discuss the key issues of East Asian cooperation. The meeting was attended by about 50 experts and scholars in East Asian studies from ASEAN, China, Japan, Korea, and the ASEAN Secretariat. At the meeting, scholars exchanged views on the East Asia economic integration progress. They agreed that East Asian studies should be strengthened, think tanks should be encouraged and given full play, and joint efforts should be made for further and comprehensive development of East Asian cooperation. A summary report was adopted following the conference.
    For information, see: http://www.neat.org.cn/english/hysj/contentshow.php?content_id=61
  65. Trilateral Tools for Managing Complex Contingencies: US-Japan-Korea Cooperation in Disaster Relief and Stabilization
    Date: November 2, 2005
    Location: Washington DC, US
    Organizers/Sponsors: Institute for Foreign Policy Analysis (IFPA), in collaboration with the Japan Forum on International Relations (JFIR) and Yonsei University's Graduate School of International Studies (GSIS)
    Dozens of government officials, foreign policy experts, and nongovernmental representatives from the United States, Japan, and South Korea gathered for a seminar in Washington DC to discuss the importance of international cooperation for managing complex contingencies. Panelists summarized the findings of the IFPA project and analyzed recent trends and case studies related to trilateral (and broader regional) civil-military cooperation to manage complex contingencies (e.g., Southeast Asian tsunami relief efforts or national reconstruction in Afghanistan or Iraq). A discussion was also held with government representatives and researchers from the United States, Japan, and Korea. The focus was on looking ahead to identify opportunities, priorities, and challenges with respect to humanitarian assistance/disaster relief and crisis management contingencies, and the potential role of US–Japan–South Korea trilateral cooperation in these matters.
    For information, see: http://www.ifpa.org/projects/cgp_tcog.htm
  66. 13th Conference of the East and Southeast Asia Network for Better Local Governments
    Date: November 2–4, 2005
    Location: Thailand
    Organizers/Sponsors: Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) Singapore and Local Government Development Foundation (LOGODEF) Manila
    The 13th Conference of the East and Southeast Asia Network for Better Local Governments was held in November on the theme of "City Revitalization through Eco Urban Tourism." Experts from Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam delivered papers on their respective cities. Topics included such themes as "city revitalization through asset management" and "policies and strategies for eco urban tourism."
    For information, see: http://www.kas-asia.org/new.htm
  67. Indigenous Peoples and Rights Based Development: Engaging in Dialogue
    Date: November 4–5, 2005
    Location: Baguio City, Philippines
    Organizers/Sponsors: UNDP Regional Indigenous Peoples Programme (UNDP/ RIPP) and the Cordillera Indigenous Peoples Law Center (DINTEG)
    This was the inaugural workshop of the new UNDP/RIPP, which aims to strengthen policy dialogue at the local, national, and regional level and to facilitate coordination of indigenous people's rights and sustainable development in the Asian region. The initiative focuses on policy dialogue, advocacy, and capacity-building measures. The meeting's objectives were to provide a forum in which key indigenous leaders in the region can discuss and exchange ideas on strategies for engagement with international financial institutions; establish a core group to help guide the dialogue; and finalize the details for the workshop and training program. The workshop was attended by representatives of indigenous peoples from Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Nepal, the Philippines, and Thailand.
    For information, see: http://www.adb.org/Documents/Events/2005/IP-RBD/default.asp
    #pariticipants
  68. 1st CSCAP Export Controls Experts Group Meeting
    Date: November 7–8, 2005
    Location: Tokyo, Japan
    Organizers/Sponsors: Council for Security Cooperation in Asia Pacific (CSCAP)
    This event was the inaugural meeting of a CSCAP subgroup of the Study Group on Countering the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) in the Asia Pacific. Thirty participants and observers attended. The objective of the study group is to create an East Asian Action Plan to Counter the Proliferation of WMD, modeled after the EU's WMD action plan. Since export controls are a core component of that effort, the subgroup was formed. The meeting examined the current state of the field and considered the future action plan of the subgroup.
    For information, see: http://www.cscap.ca/pdf/CSCAP%20Export%20Controls%20Experts%20Group
    %20-%20Tokyo%20Meeting%202005.pdf
  69. Workshop on Framing the ASEAN Charter
    Date: November 7, 2005
    Location: Singapore
    Organizers/Sponsors: Institute of Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS)
    This workshop brought together experts from Singapore and around the region to discuss the ASEAN Charter. A report on the workshop was published by ISEAS and submitted to the Eminent Persons Group, appointed by ASEAN to examine possibility of having an ASEAN Charter. The workshop members stressed the need for a charter in order to establish the association as a juridical person and a legal entity. Such a charter would clarify ASEAN's objectives, "enshrine the values and principles to which the association's members adhere," and define the institutions, mechanisms, and processes for dealing with transnational problems. The charter should also clarify the relationship between the association and the member-states. Specific recommendations were presented in this report, which is available online.
    For information, see: http://www.iseas.edu.sg/iframes/iframe_res.htm
    http://www.iseas.edu.sg/Framing_ASEAN_Charter.pdf
  70. Northeast Asia and Mongolia: Opportunities and Challenges
    Date: November 8–10, 2005
    Location: Hawaii, US
    Organizers/Sponsors: Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies (APCSS); co-sponsored by the School of Hawaiian, Asian and Pacific Studies of the University of Hawaii and the East-West Center; in cooperation with the Mongolian Academy of Management
    Among the key objectives for this APCSS conference was to assess the role of Mongolia in regional processes in Northeast Asia, such as economic integration, development of common infrastructure, use of energy resources, protection of the environment, and cooperation in fighting transnational crimes. Participants discussed the current state and future prospects of Mongolia's relations with her immediate neighbors in order to understand their likely impact on US-Mongolia partnership and key Asian security issues, and they identified opportunities for promoting multinational cooperation in Northeast Asia.
    The conference brought together government ministers, senior diplomats, defense officials, businessmen, journalists, and leading academics from Mongolia, China, Japan, South Korea, Russia, Canada, and the United States.
    For information, see: http://www.apcss.org/graphics/graphics_conferences.htm#2004
  71. Experts' Meeting on Long-Term Scenarios of Asia's Growth and Trade
    Date: November 10–11, 2005
    Location: Manila, Philippines
    Organizers/Sponsors: Asian Development Bank (ADB)
    Over the past two decades, intensified Asian regional integration and the economic emergence of China and India have transformed the economic landscape of Asia and portend fundamental shifts in global economic relations. Understanding how these key drivers will evolve in the medium and long term is important for policymakers in the region.
    This workshop focused on the Asian region and the application of applied general equilibrium models in building long-term scenarios and policy analysis. Economists examined such issues as demographic change and international migration; agricultural production, consumption, and trade; and such new issues in trade as the potential for infrastructure to serve as a catalyst for Asian regional integration and growth.
    For information, see: http://www.adb.org/Documents/Events/2005/
    Experts-Meeting/default.asp
  72. 2nd Meeting of the CSCAP Study Group on Future Prospects for Multilateral Security Frameworks in the North Pacific/Northeast Asia
    Date: November 11–12, 2005
    Location: Seoul, Korea
    Organizers/Sponsors: Council for Security Cooperation in Asia Pacific (CSCAP); hosted by Institute of Foreign Affairs and National Security (IFANS); co-chaired by CSCAP-China, CSCAP-Japan, CSCAP-Korea, US-CSCAP
    This CSCAP study group was attended by representatives from seven CSCAP member councils—Australia, China, India, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, and the United States—as well as government officials and researchers from various countries throughout the region. The meeting began with an overview of the security situation in Northeast Asia and the tasks ahead for multilateral security cooperation. The next session turned to the theoretical framework, approaches, and mechanisms for multilateral security cooperation. The participants then heard presentations on the Six-Party Talks and the potential for that framework to develop into a multilateral security framework. Non-traditional security threats were also considered. The final session considered the final output of the study group, which will be an edited book to be completed in 2006.
    For information, see: http://www.vuw.ac.nz/css/docs/CSCAP_Reports_Contributions/
    2005/MSFSGRptNov05.pdf#search=%22cscap%20korea%22
  73. 2nd Congress of the Asian Political & International Studies Association (APISA)
    Date: November 14–16, 2005
    Location: Hong Kong, China
    Organizers/Sponsors: APISA
    APISA is an independent, nongovernmental, and nonprofit organization. The general meeting of APISA members is convened biannually as a congress on a rotational basis in the sub-regions of Northeast Asia, Southeast Asia, and South Asia. The second congress focused on the theme of "Governance Dilemmas in Asia: Public Action in a Competitive and Insecure World."
    For information, see: http://www.apisanet.com
  74. ASEAN Roundtable 2005: The Asian Tsunami—Implications on Regional Development and Security
    Date: November 17–18, 2005
    Location: Singapore
    Organizers/Sponsors: Institute of Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS); supported by Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS)
    The tsunami disaster should not be viewed as a singular event with only a short-term impact on the region. Clearly, its longer-term implications on Southeast Asia's regional development and security remain uncertain and need to be assessed. In this context, the ASEAN Roundtable 2005 brought together policymakers, academics, and experts from different fields to examine the medium to long-term implications of the Asian tsunami on regional development and security.
    For information, see: http://www.iseas.edu.sg/iframes/iframe_res.htm
  75. High-Level Conference on Asian Economic Integration: Towards an Asian Economic Community
    Date: November 18–19, 2005
    Location: New Delhi, India
    Organizers/Sponsors: Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS), India, in collaboration with the Institute for Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS); supported by the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, Japan, and the UNDP Regional Office in Colombo
    This two-day conference, the fourth in a series of meetings organized by RIS in collaboration with think tanks around the region, had the participation of eminent scholars, experts, and policymakers from Cambodia, China, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. Sessions examined the relevance of Asian economic integration for the "Asian Century," the trends and potential for regional trade and investment liberalization, the current status and potential for monetary and financial cooperation in Asia, prospects for regional cooperation for Asian energy security, Asian identity and strategic issues, and the agenda for the East Asia Summit.
    For information, see: http://www.ris.org.in/
  76. Debating the East Asia Summit: IDSS Roundtable
    Date: November 21, 2005
    Location: Singapore
    Organizers/Sponsors: Institute for Defence and Strategic Studies (IDSS), Singapore
    The inaugural East Asia Summit (EAS), to be held in December 2005, promises to serve as a new multilateral institution in response to the changing economic and politico-security architecture in East Asia. At the IDSS Roundtable on the summit, it was stressed that the EAS should be viewed as a distinct entity with 16 members, and not as an "ASEAN+3+3" manifestation. Also, the EAS should be a complement to existing regional multilateral institutions. IDSS presenters advocated that the EAS should adopt a "thematic and problem-oriented approach" to address issues such as terrorism, maritime security and piracy, health and human security, and economics and energy security.
    For information, see: http://www.ntu.edu.sg/idss/
  77. Regional Meeting on Avian Influenza and Pandemic Preparedness and Regional Meeting on the Health Aspects of Emergency Preparedness and Response
    Date: November 21–24, 2005
    Location: Bangkok, Thailand
    Organizers/Sponsors: World Health Organization Southeast Asia Regional Office (WHO SEARO)
    WHO SEARO is working closely with its member countries to develop concrete plans to strengthen emergency preparedness and response in the health sector as part of overall national preparedness plans. Given the urgency for countries to have national preparedness plans, the WHO organized two regional meetings in Bangkok, bringing together experts to work toward concrete national plans. A four-day regional meeting on "Avian Influenza and Pandemic Preparedness" brought together epidemiologists and laboratory experts from 11 countries, with the aim of building a network for rapid exchange of information and expertise.
    At the same time, a three-day regional meeting on "The Health Aspects of Emergency Preparedness and Response" was held on November 21–23, which brought together more than 100 global, regional, and country experts. They sought to establish benchmarks for preparedness plans and to help to better prepare the health sector to deal with emergencies.
    For information, see: http://www.searo.who.int/en/Section316/Section503/
    Section1861_10606.htm
  78. 7th EU–East Asia Think Tank Dialogue
    Date: November 22–23, 2005
    Location: Singapore
    Organizers/Sponsors: ASEAN-ISIS; with support from the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS)
    This was a follow-up to the annual EU–ASEAN+3 Think Tank Dialogue, with the theme of "Community Building in Europe and East Asia: Challenges, Opportunities and Future Prospects." The dialogue was attended by participants from selected ASEAN-ISIS institutes; experts from Japan, Korea, and China; and representatives from the EU Commission and the EU Parliament. Topics included the enlargement and integration of the EU and East Asia; challenges and opportunities in community building in Europe and Asia from the historical, security, and economic perspectives; people's participation in community building; and future prospects for community building in each region.
    For information, see: http://www.eias.org/conferences/2005/7ttdialogue221105.html
  79. Asia Energy Forum 2005
    Date: November 25, 2005
    Location: Tokyo, Japan
    Organizers/Sponsors: Institute of Energy Economics, Japan
    The Institute of Energy Economics held a forum on Asian energy issues, drawing experts from Japan, China, India, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Russia, Vietnam, Korea, and the UK. The daylong meeting began with a speech on oil security and prices. The first session focused on the establishment of an energy security system and regional cooperation in Asia. The second session discussed how to promote mutual investments between oil producing and consuming countries to secure stable supplies of oil and natural gas. The final session dealt with nuclear power, new and renewable energy development, and regional cooperation in Asia.
    For information, see: http://eneken.ieej.or.jp/en/seminar/aef2005/aef2005min.htm
  80. Trilateral Commission Pacific Asia Group Regional Meeting
    Date: November 25–27, 2005
    Location: Beijing, China
    Organizers/Sponsors: Japan Center for International Exchange (JCIE) as the secretariat for the Trilateral Commission Pacific Asia Group
    The sixth meeting of the Pacific Asia Group was held in Beijing. Members met to discuss the regional political and security agenda, including the challenges of security in an increasingly interdependent East Asia, and ways to manage regional economic interdependence. Other topics included the rise of China and its global implications, creating a roadmap for East Asia community building, and domestic developments within the three trilateral regions and their implications for global governance.
    For information, see: http://www.trilateral.org/PAGP/REGMTGS/
    05beijing.htm
  81. Asia e-University Roundtable
    Date: November 28–29, 2005
    Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
    Organizers/Sponsors: Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD); hosted by Open University Malaysia; in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia
    This roundtable meeting was a follow-up to the 4th ACD Ministerial Meeting, held in Islamabad, Pakistan, in April 2005, at which members agreed to the formation of the Asia e-University (AeU). The aim of the roundtable meeting was to discuss the academic model to be used, including the programs and quality issues, and to consider e-learning initiatives and collaboration projects. AeU is an initiative of Malaysia, the ACD's prime mover for e-education. Based on the recommendations of the 2004 Kuala Lumpur ACD e-Education Workshop and the Islamabad Declaration 2005, Malaysia took the initiative to establish the AeU with the support of the 26 ACD member countries. The AeU is to be a multinational university set in Asia, run by Asians for Asia.
    For information, see: http://www.oum.edu.my/aeu/rountable_
    meeting1.html
  82. Maritime Security in Southeast Asia: 2nd IDSS-NUPI Workshop
    Date: November 29–30, 2005
    Location: Singapore
    Organizers/Sponsors: Institute of Defence and Strategic Studies (IDSS) and Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI)
    As Southeast Asian nations are put on guard against maritime piracy and terrorism, maritime security issues have become increasingly salient. In light of this, IDSS and NUPI have worked together to address maritime security in Southeast Asia, looking at topical issues like the contemporary threat of maritime terrorism, the security of regional sea lanes, the phenomenon of piracy, the issue of archipelagic sea lanes, flags of convenience, maritime disputes in the South China Sea, and the regimes that would aid in the building of good order at sea. This joint project consists of two workshops, the first of which was held in Oslo in June.
    For information, see: http://www.ntu.edu.sg/idss/
  83. The Changing Korean Peninsula and the Future of East Asia—CNAPS Regional Forum
    Date: December 1, 2005
    Location: Seoul, Korea
    Organizers/Sponsors: Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies (CNAPS) of the Brookings Institution, the Seoul Forum for International Affairs, the Korean-American Association, and JoongAng Ilbo
    The CNAPS held its 6th annual fall conference in Seoul, less than two weeks after President Bush's November 2005 trip to Asia. The conference brought a delegation of Brookings Institution leaders and scholars together with Korean scholars and former diplomats to discuss "The Changing Korean Peninsula and the Future of East Asia." The meeting provided an opportunity for participants to take a step back to analyze the latest developments on the Korean peninsula, including North Korea's continued nuclear ambitions, the Six-Party Talks, and the future of the Republic of Korea–United States alliance. Participants also considered alternative futures for Northeast Asia. CNAPS collaborates with NGOs, universities, and media outlets to host a public conference in a different Asian city each year.
    For information, see: http://www.brookings.edu/fp/cnaps/events/20051201.htm
  84. 4th United Nations–Republic of Korea Joint Conference on Disarmament and Non-proliferation Issues: Strengthening the NPT and the Non-proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction and their Means of Delivery
    Date: December 1–3, 2005
    Location: Busan, Korea
    Organizers/Sponsors: Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Asia and the Pacific of the Department for Disarmament Affairs and the Government of the Republic of Korea; hosted by Busan City
    The conference will discuss various issues related to the Treaty on the Non-proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), including challenges to the nuclear non-proliferation regime and ways to strengthen and effectively implement the NPT. It will also address the nuclear fuel cycle and missile non-proliferation. Furthermore, the conference will discuss issues related to the implementation of the United Nations Security Council resolution 1540, addressing outreach and implementation issues in Asia and the Pacific region. Approximately 30 participants from governments, academic and research institutes, and NGOs, mainly from Asia and the Pacific region, and from international organizations attended the conference in their personal capacity.
    For information, see: http://disarmament.un.org/rcpd/2005.htm
  85. ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Myanmar Caucus (AIPMC): Conference on Good Governance, Democracy, and ASEAN
    Date: December 2–3, 2005
    Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
    Organizers/Sponsors: ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Myanmar Caucus (AIPMC)
    The AIPMC Conference on Good Governance, Democracy, and ASEAN brought together regional lawmakers and other relevant stakeholders to discuss and promote good governance in the region while focusing on the current dire situation in Myanmar. ASEAN has recognized the importance of promoting good governance in the region both for economic growth and political stability, and encourages democratic development, anti-corruption, transparency, and the upholding of human rights by its member states. In this context, this conference enabled ASEAN legislators to strategize and strengthen their efforts to promote good governance and concrete democratic reforms within military-ruled Myanmar. The caucus members are from Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, and Myanmar; Cambodian legislators were expected to join in the following few months.
    For information, see: http://www.aseanmp.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=blogcategory
    &id=2&Itemid=27&limit=9&limitstart=9
  86. CSCAP Study Group on Capacity Building for Maritime Security Co-operation in the Asia Pacific
    Date: December 2–3, 2005
    Location: Singapore
    Organizers/Sponsors: Council for Security Cooperation in Asia Pacific (CSCAP) Australia, CSCAP Singapore, Institute for Defense and Strategic Studies (IDSS) at Nanyang Technological University (Singapore)
    The third meeting of this study group was intended to refine the notion of capacity in the context of maritime security cooperation in the Asia Pacific; to identify weaknesses in present arrangements and see how they can be overcome; and to support links between CSCAP and relevant Track 1 organizations. The first session dealt with contemporary maritime security issues in the Asia Pacific, including developments in South China Sea cooperation and island disputes in Northeast Asia. Session two examined the issue of violence at sea, including piracy and terrorism. The third session addressed capacity building for situational awareness, or knowing what is happening in adjacent regional and national waters, which is a key area for maritime security cooperation. A final session looked at the role of maritime security forces in facilitating regional cooperation on this issue.
    For information, see: http://www.cscap.ca/pdf/CSCAP%20Maritime%20Cooperation%20Study%20Group
    %20-%20Singapore%20Meeting%202005.pdf
  87. CSCAP Study Group on Countering the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction in the Asia Pacific
    Date: December 2–3, 2005
    Location: Manila, Philippines
    Organizers/Sponsors: Council for Security Cooperation in Asia Pacific (CSCAP)
    The second meeting of this study group gathered more than 40 participants and observers from 13 member committees. The meeting began by looking at developments in the global nonproliferation regime. Participants voiced concerns that the regime is leaky, that the danger of nuclear breakout is real, and that the Asia Pacific region has an obligation to tackle nonproliferation problems. Current and potential regional efforts to enforce global norms were also discussed.
    For information, see: http://www.cscap.ca/pdf/CSCAP%20WMD%20Study%20Group
    %20-%20Manila%20Meeting%202005.pdf
  88. The Importance of ASEAN-Japan Cooperation in East Asia
    Date: December 2, 2005
    Location: Tokyo, Japan
    Organizers/Sponsors: Keizai Koho Center
    A symposium was held at Keidanren Kaikan that brought together economic researchers from ASEAN countries and Japan. The panelists discussed ASEAN strategies to promote further economic development and the role of Japan in the process. They also exchanged views on the economic and political challenges of creating an East Asian Economic Community. A total of 160 people attended.
    For information, see: http://www.kkc.or.jp/english/activities/discuss5.html#2005_15
  89. International Workshop on Non-traditional Security in East Asia
    Date: December 3, 2005
    Location: Beijing, China
    Organizers/Sponsors: Chinese Academy of Social Sciences Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies
    This international workshop on "Non-traditional Security in East Asia" was convened to introduce and discuss three books: State and Civil Society in the Context of Transition; Pluralism and Society in East Asia; and Development, Migration and Security in East Asia. Scholars and experts from East Asia delivered speeches and participated in the discussion on topics of government and NGOs, migration and cross-border issues, and cohesion and conflict in pluralist societies.
    For information, see: http://iaps.cass.cn/english/news/showcontent.asp?id=207
  90. CSCAP 24th Steering Committee Meeting
    Date: December 5, 2005
    Location: Jakarta, Indonesia
    Organizers/Sponsors: Council for Security Cooperation in Asia Pacific (CSCAP) China
    An organizational meeting of CSCAP was held in preparation for the general meeting.
    For information, see: http://www.vuw.ac.nz/css/docs/CSCAP_Reports_Contributions/
    2005/24SCMtgRptWeb.pdf
  91. Forum on Gender Issues and HIV/AIDS in Southeast Asia: Trends and Challenges for the 21st Century
    Date: December 5, 2005
    Location: Singapore
    Organizers/Sponsors: Institute of Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS); supported by the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS)
    The forum was the first cooperative endeavor between the KAS Singapore Office and the ISEAS Gender Studies Programme. Participants offered an overview of the trends, practices, and different experiences in each Southeast Asian country.
    For information, see: http://www.kas.de/proj/home/news/73/2/index.html
    http://www.iseas.edu.sg/researchprojects.htm
  92. ASEAN Civil Society Conference
    Date: December 6–9, 2005
    Location: Shah Alam, Malaysia
    Organizers/Sponsors: Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Center for ASEAN Studies, with the support and cooperation of a number of Malaysian civil society organizations
    More than 120 participants from civil society organizations from all 10 ASEAN states took part in a regional conference on the theme of "Building a Common Future Together." Over the last 20 years, the emergence of a multitude of civil society organizations has strengthened citizens' participation in political processes, somewhat increasing democratic accountability. Still, there are monumental challenges ahead, and participants deliberated on some of these, including human dignity; economy and trade; environment and natural resources management; women, youth and indigenous groups; and ASEAN identity and media. This was the first time ASEAN civil society had been invited by ASEAN Heads of State to present the conclusions of their deliberations to the 11th ASEAN Summit, which took as its theme "One Vision, One Identity, One Community."
    For information, see: http://www.seaca.net/viewArticle.php?aID=851
  93. 5th CSCAP General Conference: Addressing Emerging Security Challenges in the Asia Pacific Region
    Date: December 6–7, 2005
    Location: Jakarta, Indonesia
    Organizers/Sponsors: Council for Security Cooperation in Asia Pacific (CSCAP) Indonesia; co-sponsored by Aus-CSCAP, CSCAP Canada, and CSCAP Japan.
    Approximately 120 foreign participants and 180 Indonesians attended this conference. Participants included CSCAP members, activists, journalists, academics, and diplomats. The conference concentrated on practical issues relating to counter-proliferation and to developing a regional response to proliferation. The seven main topics were 1) a new security paradigm for Northeast Asia security; 2) terrorism; 3) human trafficking; 4) WMD developments; 5) international arms control; 6) maritime security; and 7) prospects for regional cooperation in East Asia. The final session of the conference covered specific cases in regional cooperation—disaster prevention, regional peacekeeping and peacebuilding, and infectious diseases.
    For information, see: http://www.cscap.ca/pdf/2005%20General%20Conference%20Report.pdf
  94. 1st Asian Political Parties Workshop on Efficient Party Management
    Date: December 7–8, 2005
    Location: Manila, Philippines
    Organizers/Sponsors: Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) Singapore and the Asia and Pacific Office of the Centrist Democrat International (CDI)
    Secretaries-general and senior party leaders from 12 Asian political parties gathered in Manila for a two-day workshop on efficient party management. Broaching the issue of party platforms and programs, party organization and financing, and communications and campaigning, the workshop facilitated the exchange of experiences among senior party leaders of Asian political parties and experts from Europe. Discussion focused on ingredients of efficient party management and the importance of political party dialogue in Asia.
    For information, see: http://www.kas-asia.org/Conferences.htm#7dec2005
  95. Regional Workshop on Capacity Building for Resettlement Risk Management
    Date: December 8–9, 2005
    Location: Manila, Philippines
    Organizers/Sponsors: Asian Development Bank (ADB)
    A regional workshop on Capacity Building for Resettlement Risk Management was held at the ADB Headquarters in Manila. Delegates attending the meeting came from Cambodia, India, and China. The workshop served as a forum for presenting country reports and as a means for coordination between countries on improving understanding and capacity for managing involuntary resettlement-related risks.
    There were more than 60 participants representing national agencies, national consultants, NGOs, and bilateral and multilateral donor agencies with interest in and expertise on managing involuntary resettlement risks in development projects.
    For information, see: http://www.adb.org/Documents/Events/2005/RETA-6091/default.asp
  96. International Symposium on Economic Integration in Asia and India: What is the Best Way of Regional Cooperation?
    Date: December 8, 2005
    Location: Tokyo, Japan
    Organizers/Sponsors: Institute of Developing Economies (IDE)-JETRO
    In keeping with the flow toward globalization of the world economies, regional economic integration has been progressing in the EU and Americas and is now progressing among countries in Asia as well. India has also taken steps toward economic integration by magnifying its trade and investments in the Asian markets. This symposium specifically focused on how Asian countries would be affected by India's participation in economic integration, how India itself would be affected domestically in this process, and how the regions could successfully pave the way toward economic integration.
    For information, see: http://www.ide.go.jp/English/Lecture/Sympo/india.html
  97. Workshop on Governance and Regionalism in Asia
    Date: December 8–9, 2005
    Location: Hong Kong, China
    Organizers/Sponsors: University of Hong Kong Centre of Asian Studies; sponsored by the Japan Foundation
    The Centre of Asian Studies held a two-day workshop on Governance and Regionalism in Asia. This was the first of three planned workshops on the topic of new regionalism that the center is convening between 2005 and 2007. The 2005 workshop looked at the intersection of regionalization and governance structures in Asia. Coming a week before the inaugural East Asia Summit, this workshop represented a unique opportunity to explore the key issues facing regional policymakers. Twenty speakers participated, coming from Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Singapore, the UK, and the United States. The meeting was open to the public.
    For information, see: http://www.hku.hk/cas/Event/8-9Dec2005.html
  98. 3rd East Asia Congress—East Asian Cooperation: Past Accomplishments, Future Goals
    Date: December 9–11, 2005
    Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
    Organizers/Sponsors: Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS) Malaysia
    This was the third gathering of the East Asia Congress, an annual gathering of regional policymakers, scholars, the private sector, and the media organized by ISIS Malaysia's East Asia Economic Centre. The 2005 meeting began with a session on what East Asian countries should do to address saving-investment imbalances. The subsequent sessions examined such issues as a framework for East Asian exchange rate cooperation; promoting portfolio capital flows in East Asia; facilitating East Asian foreign direct investment, mergers and acquisitions, and business alliances; strengthening the domestic and regional foundations for security and stability in East Asia; political and institutional imperatives for an East Asian Free Trade Area; and the way forward for deepening East Asian community building.
    For information, see: http://www.isis.org.my/files/eaec/3EACProg.pdf
  99. 2005 ASEAN Business & Investment Summit
    Date: December 10–11, 2005
    Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
    Organizers/Sponsors: ASEAN Business Advisory Council
    The objectives of the ASEAN Business & Investment Summit are to foster an exchange of views and perceptions between the private sector and government within ASEAN and East Asia; to facilitate commerce and trade between the communities within ASEAN and the East Asia regions; to explore intra- and inter-ASEAN/East Asia business and investment opportunities; and to provide an interactive platform for industry and business in the region to showcase their potential.
    For information, see: http://aseansummit.bernama.com/business/http://www.asli.com.my/
    cgi-bin/details.cfm?type=conference&id=118
  100. ASEM's Role in Enhancing Asia-Europe Cooperation: Ten Years of Achievements and Future Challenges
    Date: December 11–13, 2005
    Location: Tokyo, Japan
    Organizers/Sponsors: Japan Center for International Exchange (JCIE), Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) and the EU Institute in Japan (EUIJ); sponsored by the Tokyo Club and the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs
    The conference and symposium were a component of the ASEF/JCIE joint research project "10 Years of ASEM," which aimed to critically review the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) process over the past 10 years and present a vision for the forum's future. Sixty-eight participants, including many government officials from both Asia and Europe, participated in the conference, while approximately 70 participants from corporations, the media, research centers, governments, and universities attended the public symposium. A program and summary are available online at the JCIE website. Sessions focused on Asia and Europe in a changing global environment, and on prospects for Asia-Europe relations and expectations for ASEM. The final report, which assesses 10 years of achievements of ASEM and its future challenges, was presented at the ASEM 6 Senior Officials Meeting (ASEM 6 SOM) in Vienna in March 2006.
    For information, see: http://www.mofa.go.jp/policy/economy/asem/symposium/program0512.html
    http://www.jcie.or.jp/thinknet/forums/asem10/
  101. Meeting of the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) on the ASEAN Charter
    Date: December 12–13, 2005
    Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
    Organizers/Sponsors: ASEAN
    An Eminent Persons Group (EPG) comprising 10 highly distinguished and well respected citizens from ASEAN member countries met for the first time to examine and provide recommendations on the direction of ASEAN and the nature of the ASEAN Charter. The EPG was established as ASEAN leaders, meeting at the 11th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur on December 12, signed the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on the Establishment of the ASEAN Charter. The actual process of drafting the ASEAN Charter will be done by a high-level task force and will only begin after the EPG has submitted its recommendations to the ASEAN leaders at the 12th ASEAN Summit in 2006. The charter will serve as a legal and institutional framework for ASEAN. It will codify all ASEAN norms, rules, and values and reaffirm that ASEAN agreements signed and other instruments adopted before the establishment of the ASEAN Charter shall continue to apply and be legally binding where appropriate.
    For information, see: http://www.aseansec.org/17945.htm#Article-5
  102. 4th Network of East Asian Think-Tanks (NEAT) Country Coordinators (CC) Meeting
    Date: December 13, 2005
    Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
    Organizers/Sponsors: Network of East Asian Think-Tanks (NEAT)
    Country coordinators from 12 of the 13 NEAT member countries participated in this meeting, which reviewed the state of the policy recommendations presented by the 3rd NEAT Annual Conference to the ASEAN+3 Summit. Participants considered proposals for the establishment or continuation of working groups, and the proposed theme, program, and agenda for the 4th NEAT Annual Conference, to be held in Kuala Lumpur in August 2006. Participants were also briefed on the 9th ASEAN+3 Summit Meeting.
    For information, see: http://www.neat.org.cn/neatweb_en/index/index.php
  103. The Rise of China and the Future of the Asia-Pacific Region
    Date: December 13, 2005
    Location: Taipei, Taiwan
    Organizers/Sponsors: Asia Foundation, Taiwan; sponsored by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Taiwan
    An international conference and roundtable were held to discuss the rise of China and its impact on relations among Asia Pacific countries, with topics including China's role in the future world order, its economic impact on the region, the future security framework in the region, and how Taiwan should position itself in response to the changes. Panelists from Taiwan, Japan, Hong Kong, Korea, the United States, and Indonesia discussed the social and political impact of China's rise on the region, asking whether China's rise would help or hinder the development of more open, just, and democratic societies in the region.
    For information, see: http://www.tp.org.tw/events/detail.htm?id=20000171
  104. CSIS-JETRO Conference: Integration of East Asian Economies—A Role for the United States and Japan
    Date: December 14, 2005
    Location: Washington DC, US
    Organizers/Sponsors: Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) and Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)
    The CSIS Japan Chair and JETRO held a conference titled "Integration for East Asian Economies: A Role for the United States and Japan." The first session focused on regional perspectives. Some participants expected region-wide economic integration in East Asia within the next 15 years, while others felt that such developments, particularly the proliferation of FTAs in Asia, should be tempered. Participants also examined East Asian integration and business diversification.
    For information, see: http://www.csis.org/component/option,com_csis_events/task,view/id,812/
  105. Roundtable on the Vientiane Action Programme
    Date: December 19–20, 2005
    Location: Bali, Indonesia
    Organizers/Sponsors: ASEAN; co-organized with the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia
    The working group for an ASEAN Human Rights Mechanism held a roundtable discussion following up the Vientiane Action Programme of ASEAN 2004–2010.
    For information, see: http://www.aseanhrmech.org/news/2006news/bali_roundtable_dec05.htm
  106. Regional Conference: China's Development and Prospect of ASEAN-China Cooperation
    Date: December 20–21, 2005
    Location: Hanoi, Vietnam
    Organizers/Sponsors: Centre for ASEAN and China Studies (CACS)
    The CACS was established in Hanoi, Vietnam, on December 20, 2005. More than 100 ambassadors, officials, and scholars attended the founding ceremony. An inaugural conference began that same day, during which experts and scholars from China and ASEAN held discussions on the topics of China's development, the relationship between ASEAN and China, and the bilateral relationship between ASEAN countries and China.
    For information, see: http://www.cacs.org.vn/webplus/viewer.asp?pgid=4&aid=118