WORKSHOP I
"Inter-Cultural Coexistencecsummary and Proposals"

Final Report

1. ACCEPTING DIVERSITY
   
   • Asia and Europe seem to be at the next intersection of a new choice. What is that choice?
   • To cope with each culture as it is, avoiding stereotypes
   • To accept the differences within and between Asia and Europe
   • To define a common ground for understanding.
   • This means that each region's identity forms an important framework for better communication and possible cooperation.
   • Cooperation involves more than simple coexistence. If projects are going to take place, they will generate inter-cultural interest and stimulate understanding.
2. PROPOSALS
   
   • It is important to express oneself openly in a foreignlanguage.
   • We should develop language exchange programs integrating European and Asian participants who are young and in the early stages of their careers.
   • To some extent the diversity in cultural norms can create more problems than "simple" language differences. To develop inter-cultural cooperation:
   • We should initiate discussion fora with representatives from different cultures, not just from different countries, and set up Asian Studies courses in Europe and Europeans Studies programs in Asia, which haven't existed until now.
   • These programs should be implemented by existing universities from both regions as well as by a new joint Common Association to be run by private sector, university and cultural group representatives from Asia and Europe.
   • We should also develop more faculty exchanges and post-graduate programs. Research exchanges are also an important feature of inter-cultural interaction, and joint research projects should define methodologies in inter-cultural communication and management.
   • We should extend the European ERASMUS Programme (involving undergraduate students) to Asian countries.
   • We should actively support internship programs integrating young Asian employees in European corporations and European workers in Asian enterprises.
   • Even short-term cultural exchanges need to be initiated, not only in business, but in science, sports, arts, etc., as these fields also open our eyes to cultural differences.
   • Artistic culture can help bridge cultural gaps.
   • Establish a common Asian-European Youth Orchestra, which would be a first step toward better mutual understanding of both regions' artistic trends.
   • Some Asian countries do not cooperate with media representatives, and Europe is ill-informed about Asian issues.
   • We should set up web pages to provide links for information and create a better network of information. These steps, in addition to sending journalists on longer-term Asian assignments, will help inform Europeans about Asian cultures and issues.