ASEM should focus on establishing substantive support systems for its initiatives on peace and development

The Asia-Europe Meeting in Yangzhou, Jiangsu province on Thursday and Friday is likely to kick-start a review of relations between the two sides, which many argue is necessary to give fresh impetus to the process.

There is no shortage of ideas on how to increase the relevance of the meetings in a rapidly changing world, and the brainstorming in Yangzhou will look at the role of an ASEM in ensuring both regional and world peace and security.