The Asia-Europe Foundation successfully concluded the ASEF Diplomatic Negotiation Action (DNA) Training held from 18–22 May 2026 in Warsaw. The programme was graciously hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland and the Diplomatic Academy of Poland. Bringing together 24 diplomats from 22 countries across Asia and Europe, the five-day training provided a dynamic platform for dialogue, peer learning, and the exchange of perspectives on diplomatic negotiation. Through a combination of expert-led sessions, practical exercises, and collaborative discussions, participants strengthened their negotiation skills while exploring the challenges and opportunities facing diplomacy in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
The programme focused on the practical and applied dimensions of diplomatic work, equipping participants with concrete skills and tools relevant to today’s evolving international environment. Sessions covered core negotiation principles and techniques by Stefan SZEPESI and Ilay BEELDSNIJDER of Negotiation and Public Service, and the application of artificial intelligence in diplomacy by Suzi JAZMATI and Souhail Belhadj KLAZ of Geneva Graduate Institute Other sessions include international negotiations, comparative perspectives on ASEAN and EU regional integration by Ambassador María CASTILLO FERNÁNDEZ, Special Envoy of the European Union for the Indo‑Pacific as well as approaches to EU decision making strategies, comparison of EU and ASEAN, and navigating negotiations shaped by mistrust and disinformation by experts. Through interactive discussions and scenario-based learning, participants were encouraged to reflect critically on emerging diplomatic challenges while strengthening their negotiation capacities.
Participants particularly valued the opportunity to engage directly with counterparts from both regions, exchange practical experiences, and explore new pathways for strengthening Asia–Europe cooperation. The discussions throughout the week highlighted the growing importance of diplomatic negotiation in addressing contemporary global challenges, while reaffirming the importance of sustained cross-regional dialogue in fostering mutual understanding, trust, and effective international cooperation.
The training further reinforced ASEF’s commitment to fostering mutual understanding and strengthening diplomatic capacities across Asia and Europe, while building lasting professional networks among the next generation of diplomatic practitioners.
More activities photographs on Flickr