osloforum

Oslo forum | Asia 08 - Asian Mediation Retreat 2008

15-17 March 2008, Beijing

 
The Asian Mediation Retreat was co-hosted by the Royal Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, in cooperation with the China Institute of International Studies (CIIS). The retreat emphasised that dialogue and mediation are not Western concepts, but that Asia is very much part of the debate and practice. More than fifty mediators, experts and peace process actors from around Asia participated in the Asian Mediation Retreat, including senior officials and envoys from India, Japan, Indonesia, Vietnam, Pakistan, Russia, Singapore and the Philippines.

Discussions looked at mediation trends in Asia, the role of big powers in negotiating an end to disputes, energy security and engaging with extremists. Participants also discussed the peace processes in Indonesia and Nepal and debated mediation and security in fragile states. A special highlight was an off the record interview of former Indonesian Foreign Minister Ali Alatas.