The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation will hold a forum on Tuesday to raise awareness and help prepare for the next Asia-Europe Meeting (Asem).

The event will be held in front of Botum Vatey Pagoda in Phnom Penh and be attended by officials from the relevant ministries and institutions, and students who will be able to enjoy several exhibitions and performances.

The 13th edition of Asem will be held on November 16-17 under the theme Strengthening a Pluralism of Parties for Inclusive Growth. It will be hosted at the Overseas Cambodia Investment Corporation (OCIC) building in Chroy Changvar.

On January 31, the government formally announced that Cambodia will be hosting Asem this year.

Seven events will be held on its sidelines – The Asia-Europe Parliamentary Partnership Meeting, the Asia-Europe Economic and Business Forum, the Asef Young Leaders Summit, the Asef Editors Roundtable, the Asia-Europe Employment Forum, the Asia-Europe People Forum and the Asem Cultural Festival.

Last week, the government announced that Cambodia had formed a committee to oversee security matters at Asem.

To guarantee the safety of all participants, the government said nearly 13,000 soldiers had been assigned to the event.