Asia matters - for Europe. And Europe matters - for Asia. That is why the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) was created in 1996. That is why it has become the key forum for dialogue and cooperation between Europe and Asia. And that is why in just a few days, we will meet in Milan with 51 Heads of state and government from European and Asian partners to reaffirm our commitment to this vital relationship, based on equal partnership, mutual respect and shared benefits.

The rise of Asia is one of the trends shaping our world today. Asia is home to the world's fastest growing economies, with millions of people already lifted out of poverty; it is experiencing rapidly changing politics and its global significance and influence has grown exponentially.

In economic terms, Asia has surpassed the North American Free Trade Area to become the EU's main trading partner, with more than 26 percent of EU outward investment going to Asia. The EU remains the largest economy in the world, with a per capita GDP of 25, 000 for its 500 million consumers, so Asia's future growth depends on access to European markets.

At the same time, Europe's growth also depends on a prosperous and stable Asia. Together, ASEM members represent half of the world's GDP, more than 60 percent of the world's population and around 60 percent of global trade. Europe needs a strong alliance with and commitment from its Asian partners to help tackle global challenges such as climate change, poverty, terrorism, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, illegal migration, human trafficking and maritime security.

More and more, Asia recognizes the EU's relevance as a reliable player in the regional security equation. We offer a useful model for political and economic cooperation and regional integration and have a good track record of innovative strategies to handle the new security threats increasingly dominating the international agenda.

For all these reasons, it makes perfect sense for the EU and Asia to build on their engagement. We all have a responsibility to do so.