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Brussels – November 7th, 2023 The Brussels based Europe-Asia Center is pleased to announce the appointment of Her Excellency dr. hc. Violeta Bulc, the Commissioner for Transport and Mobility in Juncker’s Commission (2014 – 2019) and former Deputy Prime Minister of Slovenia as member of the board. Excellency Bulc is currently also serving as curator for Ecocivilisation Initiative, #G100 Global Chair for the Women World Economic Forum and member of the board of Joint European Disruptive Initiative (JEDI). “It is an honour and privilege for me to join the board of the Europe-Asia Center. It is more important than ever to build bridges, strengthen global relationships and jointly learn how to “human better”. Asia and Europe are just at the beginning of an exciting collaborative future with huge potentials for leading the way for a more inclusive, peaceful and engaging world. The transition from Holocene to Anthropocene era is volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous which will require a lot of trust, innovation and proactive decision making to curate an emergence of a new stability on our precious Planet. I know that with my rich and diversified experience I can be a valuable member of this mission driven far-reaching Center.” said Her Excellency Violeta Bulc. “I’m thrilled and honored to welcome Violeta Bulc as the Vice Chairwoman and Board Member of the Europe Asia Center. Her interest to join the Center perfectly aligns with her well-established international and European standing and reputation, which will undoubtedly bolster the Center’s role as a bridge between Europe and Asia. With her Slovenian heritage and strong passion for improving the human condition and harnessing the potential of innovation and technology, Violeta will play a key role in helping the Center address issues like the emerging global technological divide. As the Chairman of the Board, I look forward to collaborating with Violeta and benefiting from her wealth of knowledge and experience” said Ambassador (ret.) Piet Steel, Chairman of the Europe-Asia Center. As a board member of the Europe-Asia Center, Excellency dr. hc. Violeta Bulc will contribute to the strategic development and practice of the Europe-Asia Center through her expertise and extensive experience in national and EU governance, leadership, science, technology and innovation. Having served as the EU Commissioner for Transport and Mobility between 2014 and 2019, Violeta Bulc brings expertise that is critical to the current geopolitical dynamics and civilization paradigms between East and West. 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, Director for Europe, Europe – Asia Center E-mail: m.gajsek(at)europe-asia.org

Brussels – November 18th, 2023 On the occasion of the Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden high-level dialogue during the APEC Meeting in California, the Chairman of the Europe – Asia Center Ambassador (ret.) Piet Steel shared the European position on the significance of the leaders meeting. Ambassador Steel’s contribution was part of the broader coverage by the China Global Television Network – CGTN. Contribution was part of the French broadcasting channels by the CGTN. 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, Director for Europe, Europe – Asia Center E-mail: m.gajsek(at)europe-asia.org

Brussels November 13th, 2023 The Europe-Asia Center delegation, led by chairman Ambassador (ret.) Piet Steel and vice-chair H.E. Dr. hc. Violeta Bulc, participated in the 2023 edition of the Paris Peace Forum held between November 10th and 11th 2023. The Paris Peace Forum stands as the flagship event of a platform dedicated to incubating new global governance policy initiatives. The 6th edition emphasized innovative cooperation models involving governments, international organizations, civil society, and businesses to achieve tangible outcomes. During the forum presence, the Europe-Asia Center delegation engaged in numerous dialogues with distinguished speakers, dignitaries, and guests, including H.E. Charles Michel, President of the European Council, and Ambassador Fu Ying, Former Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Ambassador (ret.) Piet Steel, H.E. Dr. hc. Violeta Bulc, Ms Rui Yan and Mr Matic Gajsek (Europe – Asia Center) together with Ambassador Fu Ying. In context of forum, Europe-Asia Center also hosted a high-level dialogue titled “EU – China Relations in times of Geopolitical Complexity,” co-chaired by H.E. Dr. hc. Violeta Bulc and H.E. Erik Solheim, both Vice-Chairs of the Europe-Asia Center. Among distinguished guests attending was the Executive Committee of the Center for China and Globalization (CCG), including Dr. Huiyao Wang, Founder and President, Dr. Mabel Lu MIAO, Co-founder and Secretary-General, Mr. WANG Yiwei, Jean Monnet Chair Professor Remini University, and Ms. Lisa Lang, Director of Policy & EU Affairs Orchestrator of Climate KIC. The high-level dialogue addressed key topics such as EU-China relations, the imperative of navigating Economic Cooperation and Trade within the contexts of partnership, competition, and systemic rivalry, and the potential of inter-civilizational dialogue for the prosperity of humankind. This dialogue contributes to the strategic partnership framework between the Europe-Asia Center and the Center for China and Globalization (CCG), focusing on research, academic engagement, governance, business interaction, and people-to-people exchange as primary priorities. For press enquiries: Matic Gajšek, Director for Europe, Europe – Asia Center E-mail: m.gajsek(at)europe-asia.org

Brussels November 30th, 2023 The United Nations (UN) annual climate change conference, also known as the ‘Conference of the Parties’ or ‘COP’, will in its 28th edition hosted in Dubai, between November 30th and December 12th 2023 bring together world leaders, ministers, negotiators and representatives of civil society to agree on how to address climate change. The Europe-Asia Center is honoured to be a contributing partner to several high-level dialogue events and discussions, led by the center’s vice-chair H.E. Erik Solheim. H.E. Erik Solheim, vice-chair of the Europe – Asia Center and former UN Deputy Secretary General and Executive director of UN Environment H.E. Erik Solheim is scheduled to engage in various activities at the 2023 Climate Conference in the role of a featured speaker and distinguished guest, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in addressing climate change. His emphasis will be the promotion of climate action, carbon neutrality, green energy, low-carbon transition, and environmental protection. The Europe – Asia Center as a partner of events and Excellency Solheim as vice-chair will dedicate considerable attention to the promotion of green energy. Recognizing the pivotal role that renewable energy plays in mitigating climate change, he will continue his advocacy work on the need for increased investment and innovation in this field. By shedding light on successful green energy initiatives from around the world, Erik Solheim aims to inspire nations to accelerate their transition towards cleaner, more sustainable energy sources. Excellency Solheim will appear in a range of events hosted by countries, industry and civil society’s stakeholder represented at the conference. These events will focus on tailoring environmental protection strategies to each nation’s unique context. Notably, Excellency Solheim is scheduled to lead discussions with countries such as Spain, South Korea, India, China, European Union, and and others. The dialogues will encompass a wide array of environmental sectors, including new energy, green finance, governance and creativity. As the world collectively strives for a greener and more resilient planet, Erik Solheim’s upcoming efforts are poised to stand as a testament to the power of international collaboration in the face of climate change. The contribution of Europe – Asia Center and Excellency Solheim at the 2023 Dubai Climate Change Conference reflect a comprehensive and inclusive approach to global environmental issues. For enquiries connected to attendance of events and bilateral meetings: Kira Xiao, Project coordinator and Assistant to Excellency Solheim, Europe – Asia Center E-mail: kira.xiao(at)europe-asia.org For enquiries connected to press and partnerships: Matic Gajsek, Director for Europe, Europe – Asia Center E-mail: m.gajsek(at)europe-asia.org

Dubai -Brussels – 11th December 2023 On Sunday, 10th December 2023, Europe – Asia Center hosted a high-level dialogue titled “Inter-Religious Dialogue as a Catalyst for Global Climate Action” at the United Nations Climate Conference (COP 28) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Distinguished experts participating at the high-level dialogue included H.E. Erik Solheim, vice-chair of the Europe – Asia Center and former UN Deputy Secretary General, Executive Director of UN Environment, H.E. Madame Irina Bokova, former UNESCO Director General, Venerable Master Ji-Jing, leader of faith and Cultural consultant of the Europe – Asia Center and Dr. Samir Boudinar, director of Alhokama Center for Peace Research and representative of the Muslim Council of Elders. In dialogue, moderated by Matic Gajsek, director for Europe at the Europe – Asia Center, distinguished panelists explored the intersection of faith and Climate action. The panel explored a range of exemplary Initiatives Across Faiths that contribute towards galvanizing broader Citizen Engagement. Specific questions were addressed on the profound relationship between spirituality and environmental stewardship, the role of culture, cultural heritage, and education in steering climate action, translation of faith principles into accessible steps for a global audience, and the potential of leaders of faith as influential advocates for widespread climate awareness. In context of COP28 for the first time also highlighting the Pavilion of Faith, the dialogue stood as a pivotal exploration into the potential of dialogue between faiths in steering global climate action, and enlightened the path to civilizational prosperity. 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, Director for Europe, Europe – Asia Center E-mail: m.gajsek(at)europe-asia.org

Brussels December 7th, 2023 Concluding the first week of the 28th edition of the United Nations (UN) Annual Climate conference (COP28), held in Dubai, H.E. Erik Solheim engaged in a broad range of high-level events hosted by governmental and industry stakeholders. Mr. Solheim’s participation during the first week of COP28 contributed to some of the key events, offering invaluable insights to world leaders on successfully implementing green energy initiatives. Noteworthy highlights encompassed events such as ‘Ecological Civilization and the Practice of Beautiful China,’ ‘Global Energy Interconnection,’ ‘China’s Overseas Green Energy Investment, and Green and Just Transition,’ and ‘Ambition of Energy Transition: Pioneers Addressing Climate Change.’ His involvement aligned with his broader advocacy emphasizing the need to accelerate the process of a just transition towards sustainability. Mr. Solheim’s advocacy priorities encompassed promoting green energy, achieving carbon neutrality, and safeguarding the environment. He stressed the importance of tailoring strategies for transitioning to cleaner energy sources tailored to each nation’s context. Remarkably, Mr. Solheim led discussions on regions including Spain, Korea, Africa, and Russia. Events he participated in included the ‘GH2: COP28 Side Event at the Korea Pavilion: Fast-tracking the energy transition through free hydrogen production’, the Africa Session on ‘Global Renewables Hub: In the driving seat of the African renewables and green hydrogen economy,” and the Russia event ‘Towards a Blue-Green Economy’. Additionally, Mr. Solheim participated as a distinguished panelist in the ‘GH2 Spain: Energy Transition Ambition at COP28 and Beyond’ event, deliberating strategies for better worldwide deployment of renewables, particularly in the West. He underscored three main issues: the need for political leadership in driving and actively engaging in renewable energy initiatives within civil society, global dialogue on national energy transition strategies and projects, and greater transparency and community inclusion in major renewable projects to mitigate fears and obstacles that impede implementations. Stronger political will and empowered community engagement are essential for the prosperous development of societies. H.E. Erik Solheim, vice-chair of the Europe – Asia Center and Lord Nicholas Stern In the coming days, Mr. Solheim will participate in several key events, including the ‘Seminar on Belt and Road Green and Low-carbon Transition,’ ‘Yabuli Chinese Entrepreneurs Forum Delegation,’ and the event ‘Towards Carbon Neutrality: China’s Green Economy Action and Outlook.’ These engagements reflect his steadfast support for environmental initiatives and commitment to advancing green and low-carbon transition projects crucial for global sustainability. Mr. Solheim will conclude his presence at COP28 on December 11th, contributing to the UN Climate Change Global Innovation Hub Pavilion event ‘Design, Digitalization, and Sustainable Development: The Role Of Creative Arts And Industries In Sustainable Industrial Transformation,’ hosted by the EIT Climate-KIC. He aims to raise awareness about the potential of Culture and Creative sectors in innovation, serving as catalysts and enablers for citizens’ climate action. For enquiries connected to attendance of events and bilateral meetings: Kira Xiao, Project coordinator and Assistant to Excellency Solheim, Europe – Asia Center E-mail: kira.xiao(at)europe-asia.org For enquiries connected to press and partnerships: Matic Gajsek, Director for Europe, Europe – Asia Center E-mail: m.gajsek(at)europe-asia.org

Brussels – Hanoi – Beijing December 20th, 2023 Concluding the calendar year of 2023, the Europe-Asia Center’s board organized the Annual General Assembly Meeting, under the leadership of Chairman Ambassador (ret.) Piet Steel. In his opening address to the board members, Ambassador (ret.) Steel announced the center’s structural changes and invited Director Matic Gajsek to update on the progress of the new strategic positioning. Director Matic Gajsek presented the annual activities report for 2023 along with a tentative financial report and projections for 2024. He further elaborated on the center’s ongoing efforts toward establishing the new strategic positioning. In attendance were esteemed board members Ambassador (ret.) Piet Steel, H.E. Erik Solheim, H.E. Dr. hc. Violeta Bulc, Ambassador Jean De Ruyt, Ambassador Sanh Chau Pham, and Madame Sheila Arora (in absence Prof. Wei Shen and Master Ji Jing). They engaged in a dialogue concerning the new strategic direction, outlining the forthcoming actions for the board and executive team in Q1 of 2024. The meeting concluded with voting to confirm the reports for 2023, the planned scope of activities for 2024, and the initial phase of the strategic positioning. An announcement regarding the restructuring will be made at the beginning of January 2024, ensuring continuity in the strategic positioning and the execution of planned activities. Document: Strategic positioning and re-structuring, with report of 2023 and 2024 plan For press enquiries: Matic Gajsek, Director for Europe, Europe – Asia Center E-mail: m.gajsek(at)europe-asia.org

Brussels – January 18th, 2024 The Europe – Asia Center announces that chairman Ambassador (ret.) Piet Steel is stepping down from his position. As one of the founding members, Ambassador (ret.) Steel has played a vital role in establishing the Center, advocating for stronger dialogue between Europe and Asia throughout the years. He is now moving on to pursue the mission of international dialogue and inclusion as a member of the Executive Board of Special Olympics International in Washington D.C., a global organisation championing social inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities. The entire Board, founding members and management team of the Europe – Asia Center express their deepest gratitude to Ambassador (ret.) Piet Steel for his unwavering commitment and leadership during his tenure. With this change, I am delighted to announce that Ambassador Jean De Ruyt and H.E. Erik Solheim will take on the roles of Co-Chairs. Both bring extensive experience in international affairs and Europe – Asia cooperation, and we are confident that their vision and leadership will steer the Europe – Asia Center to new heights. Upon his departure, Ambassador (ret.) Steel shared: “I retire as Chairman of the Europe Asia Center not without sadness. Despite significant achievements since its founding, the Center still has enormous growth potential in fostering relations between Europe and Asia, diversifying into countries such as Vietnam, India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and others. I am confident they will successfully raise the Center to a new stage in its development.  I wish my successors, co-chairs Ambassador De Ruyt and H.E. Erik Solheim, every success in expanding the Center further, making it sustainable and an accepted partner in a world full of geopolitical challenges”. 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, Director for Europe, Europe – Asia Center E-mail: m.gajsek(at)europe-asia.org

Brussels, February 4th, 2024 The Co-Chair of the Europe – Asia Center, Excellency Erik Solheim, former United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), as well as Vice Chairman of the International Green Development Coalition under the Belt and Road Initiative, was honoured with the 2023 Chinese Government Friendship Award. This distinguished accolade was presented to Excellency Erik Solheim by Chinese Prime Minister Mr Li Qiang. The Chinese Government Friendship Award is an honour established by the Chinese government to commend foreign experts working in China, who have made significant contributions to China’s reform and development. During his tenure as Executive Director of UNEP from 2016 to 2018, Erik Solheim facilitated the signing of a cooperative document between China and UNEP on building a Green Belt and Road and promoted the establishment of the International Green Development Coalition under the Belt and Road Initiative. These initiatives significantly enhanced international collaboration of China’s Belt and Road Initiative in environmental domain globally. In recent interview for CCTV’s “Face to Face”, Mr. Solheim shared China’s global leadership in the field of green technology. He pointed out that China accounts for 60% to 80% of the global market in solar energy, wind energy, hydropower, electric vehicles, and buses. He furthermore emphasized the need to encourage these technologies and enterprises to invest and trade more with developing countries. Excellency Solheim was particularly impressed by the transformation in Anji, Zhejiang, and the development of hydropower resources in the Yalong River, Sichuan. These cases not only demonstrate a profound shift in China’s development philosophy but also highlight China’s key role in the global green transition. He believes that with its advantages in new energy vehicles and clean energy technologies, China is fully capable of leading the global green transition, achieving a win-win situation for economic growth and environmental protection. As Chairman of the Europe-Asia Center, Erik Solheim has not only deepened the dialogue and cooperation between Asia and Europe but also injected new vitality into global prosperity. His contributions have set a model for cooperation between China and Europe in the field of green development and provided valuable experiences and insights for countries worldwide to jointly face environmental challenges and promote sustainable development. For press enquiries: Matic Gajšek, Director for Europe, Europe – Asia Center E-mail: m.gajsek(at)europe-asia.org

Brussels, January 30th, 2024 On the occasion of the Lunar New Year celebration, Her Excellency Dr. hc. Madame Violeta Bulc, Vice-Chair of the Europe-Asia Center, along with Mr. Matic Gajšek, Director for Europe of the Europe-Asia Center, engaged in a high-level dialogue with His Excellency Mr. Fu Cong, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary and Head of Mission of the People’s Republic of China to the European Union, to discuss the current state and prospects of EU-China relations. During the exchange, Ambassador Fu Cong commended the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the Europe-Asia Center and the Chinese Mission, reaffirming his commitment to its continuation, sentiments echoed by Madame Bulc, who also expressed her dedication to fostering the ongoing relationship. Ambassador Fu Cong underscored the significant importance China places on its relationship with the EU, emphasizing the multitude of shared interests and global challenges necessitating close collaboration. He categorically rejected any notion of rivalry between China and the EU, expressing hope for an increased focus on the partnership aspect of their relationship. Madame Bulc emphasized the necessity for innovative approaches and multilateral cooperation to overcome historical legacies and tackle global challenges. She stressed the importance of building trust between the EU and China, highlighting the potential for collaboration to address numerous global challenges, specifically in domain of climate change. While acknowledging the gradual transition into a multipolar world, Madame Bulc expressed optimism in China’s ability to remain a cooperative partner, which would be most effective in reshaping prevailing narratives and overcoming fear-based paradigms. Both parties reiterated their unwavering commitment to strengthening and deepening their relationship, with a shared dedication to addressing international challenges and fostering stability, sustainability, peace, and prosperity. The high-level dialogue underscores the significance of nurturing diplomatic and societal ties between the EU and China, reflecting the mutual desire of both parties to building robust and constructive partnerships. For press enquiries: Matic Gajšek, Director for Europe, Europe – Asia Center E-mail: m.gajsek(at)europe-asia.org

Brussels, January 30th, 2024 On the occasion of the Lunar New Year – Tet Celebration, Her Excellency Dr. hc. Madame Violeta Bulc, Vice-Chair of the Europe-Asia Center, along with Mr. Matic Gajšek, Director for Europe of the Europe-Asia Center, engaged in a high-level dialogue with His Excellency Nguyen Van Thao, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam in the Kingdom of Belgium and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, Mission of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to the European Union, to discuss the current state and prospects of EU-Vietnam relations. During a recent exchange, Ambassador Nguyen Van Thao shared the previous exchanges between the Vietnamese embassy and the Europe – Asia Center, under the leadership of Ambassador (ret.) Piet Steel. Madame Bulc reaffirmed the center’s commitment to foster dialogue and exchanges across sectors between Europe and Vietnam. Ambassador Nguyen Van Thao underscored the importance of EU – Vietnam dialogue and exchanges, specifically in area of promotion of the international cooperation in climate change and green transition. Specifically interest of Vietnam for promoting closer cooperation in area of high-tech investment, green hydrogen export and added value production. Areas which Vietnam can play a vital role in supporting the climate ambitions by the EU. Ambassador furthermore emphasized the importance of strengthening the cultural exchanges and activities that would promote greater exchanges. Madame Bulc reflected on her past experiences of collaboration with Vietnam and the ASEAN region during her tenure as the EU Commissioner for Transport and Mobility. She emphasized the need for promoting stronger exchanges and collaboration, two areas where the Europe – Asia Center can contribute to the work of the respected diplomatic mission. Both parties shared the mutual commitment to strengthening the relationship between the Vietnamese diplomatic mission and the Europe – Asia Center. For press enquiries: Matic Gajšek, Director for Europe, Europe – Asia Center E-mail: m.gajsek(at)europe-asia.org

Abu Dhabi -Brussels – 14th February 2024 On February 4th and 5th 2024, Europe-Asia Center hosted the landmark 2024 Summit on “Human Fraternity as a Catalyst for Global Sustainable Development,” held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Building upon the legacy of the esteemed Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, the summit convened on the UN International Day of Human Fraternity, underscoring the pivotal role of interconnected faith dynamics in driving sustainable progress worldwide. Distinguished thought leaders, policymakers, and activists convened to engage in dynamic panel discussions and deliver illuminating keynote addresses. Among the esteemed speakers were H.E. Erik Solheim, Co-chair of the Europe-Asia Center and former UN Deputy Secretary-General, H.E. Violeta Bulc, Vice-Chair of the Europe-Asia Center and former EU Commissioner for Transport and Mobility, and Venerable Master Jijing, leader of faith and Cultural consultant of the Europe – Asia Center. In addition, the summit welcomed esteemed guests including H.E. Madame Irina Bokova, former UNESCO Director-General, Ms. Shamsa Abubakar Fadhil (“Shamsa Mama”), peace mediator, community mobilizer and 2023 Lauret of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, H.E. Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, General Secretary of Muslim Elders, and Honourable Nirmal Sethia, renowned businessman and philanthropist, who enriched the discourse with their invaluable insights. Under the moderation of Matic Gajšek, Director for Europe at the Europe-Asia Center, and prof. Shen Wei, Vice-Chair of the Europe-Asia Center, discussions centered on the imperative of cross-cultural dialogue in fostering sustainable development on a global scale. Panellists reflected on the transcendental values that may serve as the foundation for constructive collaboration in an increasingly interconnected world, and emphasized the urgent need for increased collaborative efforts to unite diverse peoples, societies, and nations, and cultivate a sense of universal brotherhood. Delving into the symbiotic relationship between faith traditions and sustainable development goals, panellists championed innovative approaches to address contemporary challenges. From ethical frameworks for environmental conservation to strategies for poverty eradication, inclusive societal growth, and climate action, the summit challenged conventional paradigms, advocating for holistic solutions rooted in faith, empathy and understanding. Participants also offered actionable insights on fostering business cooperation to combat climate change, reflecting the summit’s commitment to driving real-world impact. Inspired by the principles of the Human Fraternity document for ‘World Peace and Living Together’, participants cultivated a “friendly and fraternal atmosphere where [they] shared the joys, sorrows and problems of our contemporary world”, reflecting on actionable pathways towards “thriving together”, core ethos of the Europe-Asia Center. 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, Director for Europe, Europe – Asia Center E-mail: m.gajsek(at)europe-asia.org