News

During the Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Hamburg in 2007 Lithuania initiated to hold the first ever ASEM Transport Ministers' Meeting (ASEM TMM). The initiative was welcomed by all ASEM member countries. Moreover, the initiative was joined by China, Germany, Poland, Singapore, Sweden, Vietnam and the European Commission. The mentioned countries were called the "Friends' group" and on 29 September 2008 their representatives gathered in Vilnius (Lithuania) for the first time to discuss the preparation issues of the ASEM TMM.

Launching a new framework for cooperation between Europe and Asia in transport sector takes a thorough preparation, thus the "Friends' Group" agreed that the guidelines of the Action Plan and its further development would provide a solid background of the Asia-Europe cooperation on transport issues.

The "Friends' Group" agreed that the emphasis should be put on the role of the ASEM TMM as a dialogue and cooperation framework, resulting in clear policy outcomes. It was agreed that it is important for Ministers to discuss both: global and specific issues, which are of utmost importance seeking to improve the cooperation between Asia and Europe. It goes without saying that sustainable transport development and facilitation of trade flows between Europe and Asia through safe, secure and efficient transport system is the issue which needs much attention from the decision makers. Regarding the discussions on sectorial questions, it has been decided to give the priority to the cooperation in maritime transport and civil aviation.

The first Meeting of Ministers of Transport should bring positive results relevant to the society and business community as well as indicate further guidelines for cooperation Therefore the "Friends' group" agreed that Vilnius Declaration and Chairman's Statement should be delivered and approved during the Ministerial Meeting. These documents will provide the basis for future cooperation in the ASEM TMM framework.

Finally, the "Friends' Group" has also welcomed another proposal of Lithuania - to organise Asia-Europe Transport Development Forum on 19 October 2009 in Vilnius in line with ASEM TMM. The Forum will be a great opportunity to provide a business input to the policy makers' agenda.