In 1993 at the request of the French and Dutch governments, the ESF is exploring the feasibility of some form of organization for Advanced Asian Studies.
At its meeting in March 1994, the Executive Council decided to establish a Committee for Advanced Asian Studies under the aegis of ESF and in November 1994 approved the launch of the planned activities in 1995. It was set up for an initial period of three years.
The Asia Committee coordinates European research on Asia, developing closer links between academia and political decision-makers and provide academic and strategic information for the development of a new European Asia policy.