(VOV)-The ninth Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) will be held in Vientiane, Laos on November  5^th and 6^th. Themed "Friends for Peace, Partners for Prosperity", the meeting will focus on the global economic and financial situation, social and cultural cooperation between Asian and European countries, and the future direction of the ASEM. It will also focus on global and regional issues.

Laos police on patrol at the National Convention Centre, the main venue for the Asia Europe Meeting (ASEM) 9, in Vientiane

Meanwhile, a presidential declaration of the ninth ASEM Summit and the Vientiane declaration on strengthening peace and developing partnerships is set to be issued during the meeting. Serving as an important platform for countries in Asia and Europe to enhance understanding, expand consensus, and deepen cooperation, ASEM is a high-level and broad-ranging forum among governments of different Asian and European countries. ASEM 9 is the good chance for Laos to promote its role and reputation regionally as well as internationally and strengthen cooperation, linkage between Asia and Europe. Speaking to Vientiane VOV’s correspondent,  Sithong Chinhothinh, head of Laos Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Press and Information Department said that the preparation for the ASEM 9 was completed, stressing that Laos Government and its people are ready for this summit.