Ministers affirmed the significant importance of Dialogue among Cultures and Civilizations in order to promote understanding among nations, especially in the context of globalization encompassing every aspect of society, raising the interdependence of humankind as well as enriching diversity.

Ministers were of the view that this dialogue should highlight the values and ethics and promote a constructive exchange of ideas that may facilitate the recognition of shared values. Ministers emphasized the importance of education and training as an essential foundations for social stability and economic welfare as well as for a culture of peace and a dialogue among civilizations. They welcomed the outcome of the Second ASEM Education Ministers’ Meeting in Ha Noi on 15 May 2009, which agreed on enhancing cooperation in sustainable human resources development, especially vocational and higher education.