Asia-EU summit Eyes Sustainable Growth for the World Economy

Leaders at the Asia-EU summit in Brussels have pledged to strengthen growth, carry out structural reforms and achieve sustainable growth for the world economy.

CRI's Zheng Chenguang has the details.

While voicing more support for cooperation between Europe and Asia, leaders attending the Asia-EU summit also outlined two priorities, restoring market confidence and preserving the momentum of the global economic recovery.

Speaking at the final news conference of the summit, European Council President Herman van Rompuy said the meetings helped lay the groundwork for the upcoming G20 in Seoul.

"We have sent clear signals on the modernization of the international financial institutions. This process needs to take into account the realities of today's world economy - the shifts that have taken place, and the strong growth in dynamic emerging markets and in developing economies. In parallel it needs to address wider governance issues as well."

The ASEM summit is widely believed to be a good opportunity to work on resolving regional disputes and prepare for the upcoming Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit in Hanoi later this month.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao also attended the summit in Brussels where he met with the Euro Group troika and urged the EU to objectively and fairly treat the RMB exchange rate issue

The premier also met his German counterpart Angela Merkel and both sides have pledged to enhance their efforts in coordinating macroeconomic policies and opposing trade and investment protectionism.

Premier also attended the first ever EU-China High-Level Cultural Forum in Brussels.

The forum aims to bring together renowned European and Chinese intellectuals and artists.

Premier Wen Jiabao spoke at the beginning of the forum.

"Cultural diversity inspires different cultures to interact with each other, influence each other and compliment each other thereby advancing human civilisation and enriching our lives."

European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso also addressed the two-day event.

"It has an important role in building on the tasks we have set ourselves in the summit - to deepen and enhance our relationship and improve our cooperation at all levels."

The forum is expected to become an annual event between China and the EU.

For CRI, I'm Zheng Chenguang.