Annual forum for greater understanding

The annual China-Europe Senior Public Management Forum, one component of the CEPA program, aims at increasing understanding of public administration between China and Europe and meanwhile develop CNSA's capacity to contribute to national strategic policy-making by improving the ability to provide consultancy and policy research for governments.

Each year, the forum addresses a main theme that is current, relevant and important in the continuing development of public administration in China.

The topic is extensively discussed with beneficiaries and stakeholders and makes a visible contribution to the development of public administration in China.

The forum is a high profile event attracting ministerial and senior public servants and high-level contributors from China and Europe.

Each forum has been attended by the Secretary General of the Chinese State Council and the EU Ambassador.

This level of participation ensures a more permanent and sustainable level of influence and creates a wider impact.

Preparations for the forum include both long and short-term study visits to European countries, which provides an opportunity for research and assessment of "best-practice" in the chosen topic.

The forum has created an established platform of dialogue and exchange for officials and experts.

The first forum took place in June 2004 with 170 attendees, including 20 from Europe. There were three keynote speakers and the theme was "Innovation in Public Service in China and Europe."

The 2005 forum was entitled "Perspectives on Good Governance in China and Europe." Presentations covered important aspects such as the rule of law, ensuring equality and involving civil society. About 270 participants, including 56 from Europe, were present.

In 2006, the topic was "Innovation of Public Management in China and European Countries" from the perspective of moving from a planned to a socialist market economy. It explored important themes such as dealing with transition, control of markets and state intervention. Around 332 participants attended, of whom 53 were from Europe.

"The forum took place in a lively atmosphere judging by the many questions and the discussions that developed. Despite differences in administrative culture and socio-economic context between China and the EU, we all benefited from mutual concepts and experiences," said a participant.

The 2007 forum takes place today and will last through Thursday, under the title of "Public Sector Reform and the Improvement of Government Performance."

It will address issues like the main objectives of public sector reform, that is, greater efficiency, more "service oriented" administration and increased transparency and confidence in the administration. Presentations of the results of the CEPA project to date are also expected at the event.

(China Daily 11/13/2007 page20)