(VOVworld) – The 14^th ASEM informal seminar on business and human rights protection opened in Hanoi on Tuesday. The purpose of this annual event is to create an opportunity for Asian and European government agencies, research institutes, scholars, political, social and professional organizations to share their experiences in protecting and promoting human rights. The seminar has been held in different ASEM member countries since 1997 and this year it takes place in Vietnam from November 18 to 20. Delegates will discuss ways to raise the responsibilities of companies and corporations in ensuring human rights including the rights of laborers. Vietnam’s hosting of the seminar demonstrates its responsibility and contributions to ASEM, of which Vietnam is a member.