The Chair Asia-Pacific Studies was established in order to enhance the understanding of developments in the Asia-Pacific region and to promote collaboration between Europe and countries in the Asia-Pacific region.
The Aviation-Education Foundation, as the sponsor of the Chair Asia-Pacific Studies, has stated that it envisages this Chair as a platform for organising activities to foster mutual understanding between Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, and to cultivate cooperation between Europe and the Asia-Pacific region in the areas of education, economics, trade and business. The Chair will strengthen European understanding of Asia-Pacific cultures and values and will promote democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
Furthermore, the work of the Chair is intended to advance regional stability, peace, security and prosperity, to foster networking and cooperation among countries in the region, to further good governance and to promote a deeper understanding of development models and experiences.
The Chair Asia-Pacific Studies was established by the Research Council of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel. Consequently, it has research as its foundational objective. On this research base, the Chair Asia-Pacific Studies will build an educational and outreach programme to engage students, policy-makers, stakeholders and the wider public as well as strengthening its influence and impact.
The Chair Asia-Pacific Studies has been building a network for cooperation and exchanges with universities and research institutes in the region.