As a result, the first EEC-Asean ministerial meeting was held in Brussels in 1978. Such ministerial meetings, which have been held regularly ever since, became a key element in the growing dialogue between the two sides and formed the first pillar of the relationship. This set out the framework for closer economic and trade relations between the two sides and remains the cornerstone of institutional relations between the two groups. These two pillars have provided the channels through which EU and Asean ministers and senior officials have maintained regular contact but it is important to note that they are conducted at two distinct levels. Trade and investment lies at the heart of the EU-Asean relationship and it is perhaps this area more than any other that binds the regions together.
Statistics bear testimony to the growing scale of commercial involvement.
In addition to its open markets helping Asean nations export their way out of the slump, the EU provided assistance in other ways, with special emphasis on alleviating the social impacts of the crisis. Compared to other partners, Europe did more during the crisis , said one Asean official, adding that the commitment made by the EU to Asia during the second Asia-Europe Meeting in London in 1998 was especially significant. The emphasis on trade and investment has not been at the expense of the political dialogue . Over the years this has tended to focus both on regional issues and international flashpoints and has often been the area where finding common ground has been most difficult. Taking things step by step is the message officials from both groupings give.