ASEAN

ASEAN is a regional organisation comprising 10 Southeast Asian states which promotes intergovernmental cooperation and facilitates economic integration amongst its members.

 Its principal aim is to accelerate economic growth, social progress, and socio cultural evolution, promote Southeast Asian studies, alongside the protection of regional stability.

 Member nations are: Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam.

 ASEAN shares land borders with India, China, Bangladesh, East Timor, and Papua New Guinea, and maritime borders with India, China, Palau, and Australia.

 ASEAN plus Three was created to improve existing ties with the People's Republic of China, Japan, and South Korea.

 ASEAN became ASEAN Plus Six with additional countries: Australia, New Zealand and India

 Even larger East Asia Summit (EAS), included ASEAN plus Three countries as well as India, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and Russia.

 In 2006, ASEAN was given observer status at the United Nations General Assembly.

 In response, the organisation awarded the status of "dialogue partner" to the UN.