Thailand initiated the ACD to be a continent-wide cooperative framework guided by positive thinking and the comfort level of participants. The ACD aims to consolidate Asian strengths and fortify Asia’s competitiveness by maximizing the diversity and rich resources in Asia.

The First ACD Ministerial Meeting was held between 18-19 June 2002 in Cha-Am, Thailand.  This first Meeting was an historic and successful event that brought together countries representing the sub-regions of Asia and provided a venue where Asian countries could freely discuss issues of common interest and put forward measures to enhance mutual cooperation in all areas.  Ministers were enthusiastic in expressing their support for the ACD and in creating a formidable synergy within Asia.  Indeed, they agreed that the ACD represented a forum that could consolidate political will among Asian Governments and offer opportunities for them to develop common approaches to positive issues.

The ACD currently comprises 31 countries from East to West Asia and is the first forum ever that aims to eventually encompass all countries in Asia.