ABSTRACT
This chapter explores questions related to the institutional mechanisms and management of Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM), and re-evaluates them in the light of the outcomes of the most recent summit in Helsinki in 2006. ASEM performs a balancing function between an interregional structure and an intergovernmental tool. In line with the informal, non-binding character of ASEM, the initiatives undertaken by the partners are of a political nature and based on voluntary contribution and participation. The ASEM Virtual Secretariat (AVS) is a compromise solution between those who wish to keep ASEM as informal and non-institutionalized as possible, and those who strongly support the establishment of an ASEM Secretariat. An institutional approach is inappropriate and counter-productive as it would lead to a weakened sense of ownership and responsibility for the initiatives among the partners. "Europe", represented by the member states of the European Union (EU) and the European Commission, embodies a coherent regional agency with an institutional character.
