Organizers of the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) announced on Thursday that the forum's conference this year will focus on environment-related talks to build a sustainable Asia.

Long Yongtu, the forum's secretary-general and former Chinese WTO trade negotiator, said at a news conference that the annual meeting, scheduled from April 11 to 13, would give participants a chance to discuss the challenges and opportunities influencing Asia's environment future.

"As one of the most economically vibrant regions in the world, Asia can't exclude itself from climate change, which affect everything from the economy to daily life," he said.

"Building an open and green Asia shall not be an empty promise. It entails serious thinking and practical moves, and it is the only way of sustainable development for Asia," he added.

Discussions would be held at the forum on energy efficiency, securing Asia's future through renewable energy resources and private sector contributions to improving the environment, Long said.

The agenda also includes sessions on China's 30 years of reform and opening-up, global financial reform, and the World Trade Organization's Doha talks.

The list of participants was yet to be finalized.

The Boao Forum for Asia was established in 2001 as a platform for high-level interaction between leaders from Asia and the world.
 
(Xinhua News Agency January 25, 2008)