A conference on cultures and civilizations, the first within the framework of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM), opened in Beijing Wednesday morning.

Some 200 representatives from 26 ASEM members are attending the two-day event, the largest culture ministerial meeting ever held in China.

With the theme of "unity in diversity," the conference will discuss opportunities and challenges to cultures and civilizations brought by globalization, seek the common value of the ASEM members behind their diversities in culture, race, geography, religion and social economy, and put forward practical follow-up action plans.

The ASEM has set an irregular contact mechanism for Asian and European leaders, including the ASEM summit, meeting of foreign ministers and other ministerial meetings, and related follow-up activities.

(Xinhua News Agency December 3, 2003)