2.1. What is ASEAN?

♤ The Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) was founded in 1967 by Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand to promote political and economic cooperation and regional stability. It based on the vision of an ASEAN Community comprised of three pillars, the Political-Security Community, Economic Community and Socio-Cultural Community.

Map 5.3 ASEAN Members ♤ It has evolved into a regional grouping that promotes economic, political, and security cooperation among its members.♤ It’s secretariat is based in Jakarta.♤ The group has spurred economic integration, signing six free-trade agreements with other regional economies (Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea)Map 5.4-ASEAN and Affiliated groups ♤ Regional security issues are dealt with through ASEAN or the following ASEAN-led forums ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF)-♤ First meeting Held at Bangkok, Thailand, in 1994.East Asia Summit (EAS)ASEAN+3