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Europe – Asia Center

Press release: H.E. Mr. Erik Solheim, former UN Deputy Secretary-General and Executive Director of the UN Environmental Programme (UNEP) becomes the Vice-Chairman of Europe-Asia Center


Brussels – February 7th, 2023


The Europe-Asia Center, a non-profit based in Brussels, is delighted to announce the appointment of H.E. Mr. Erik Solheim, a Norwegian diplomat and former Minister of Norway, who served as the UN Deputy Secretary-General and Executive Director of the UN Environmental Programme between 2016 and 2018 as Vice-Chairman of the board.


As Vice-Chair of the Europe-Asia Center, Erik Solheim will have key responsibility in promoting the green transition and sustainability, two areas of great importance for the future of Europe-Asian relations. With a wealth of experience in international relations and a deep understanding of the complexities of the global environment, Erik Solheim is well-positioned to help drive forward the Center’s mission of fostering closer ties between Europe and Asia.


We are thrilled to welcome Erik to the Europe-Asia Center,” said Ambassador (ret.) Piet Steel, Chairman of the Europe-Asia Center. Erik’s leadership and long experience of international affairs will be an invaluable asset for the Center as we are moving into a more complicated and challenging world.


As Vice-Chair of the Europe-Asia Center, Erik Solheim will work closely with the Center to drive forward its strategic priorities, while also engaging with stakeholders across Europe and Asia.


I am honored to join the Europe-Asia Center as its Vice-Chair,” said Erik Solheim. “The green transition, sustainability and preserving natural resources are critical issues for our world and I am eager to work with the Center to help build a more equitable future for all.


About H.E. Erik Solheim


H.E. Erik Solheim is a Norwegian diplomat and former politician who served as the Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme from 2016 to 2018. Between 2005 and 2012, he held various cabinet positions in the Norwegian government, including Minister for the Environment and International Development. Erik Solheim is one of the most prominent ambassadors for Green transition, both in business and politics. He is the Vice-chair of the China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development, chairman of the advisory board for Afroz Shah Foundation and the chair of the Developments roundtable at the Green Hydrogen Organization.


About the Europe-Asia Center


The Europe-Asia Center is an independent, not-for-profit organization promoting Asia-Europe relations by connecting professionals, institutions, organizations and networks across all sectors. Through implementation of projects, including conferences, workshops, cultural events, publications, educational and research programs, the mission of the Europe- Asia Center is to connect people and knowledge across continents.


For press enquiries:


Matic Gajšek, Deputy director Europe – Asia Center

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