The declaration holds the firm belief that the Boao Forum will lead to a more prosperous and stable Asia, in harmony within itself and with the rest of the world.

According to the declaration, the forum aims to review the economic and social challenges Asian countries now face, and make sustained efforts to promote interdependence and the economic integration of the region. It will also emphasize the importance of developing Asian perspectives on emerging issues and challenges.

The declaration believes that inter-Asian dialogue and cooperation will not only enhance the economic links within Asia but also provide more opportunities of trade and investment to the rest of the world.

The forum will work to generate initiatives to improve the trade, investment and technology partnership in Asia through high level interaction between governments and business leaders.

The declaration says that inter-cultural understanding and a deep sense of responsibility among Asian business communities will also be the focus of attention.

Through the forum's efforts, more attention is expected to be directed to developing an enabling environment for comprehensive and sustainable economic progress in Asia, and for promoting region-wide alliances to seize opportunities in trade, industry and investment, the Declaration adds.

The forum is also expected to offer intellectual leadership for developing human capital and conducting research on regional and international partnerships, the Declaration notes.

The delegates come from 25 Asian countries, including Bangladesh, India, Japan, China, Mongolia, Malaysia, Nepal, Thailand and Singapore, and Australia.

The Boao Forum for Asia will be established Tuesday.

(People's Daily 02/26/2001)