Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was formed in 1967 by Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand to promote political and economic cooperation and regional stability. U.S. relations with ASEAN have been excellent since its inception. The ASEAN chairmanship rotates annually on an alphabetical basis.

The ASEAN Declaration in 1976, considered ASEAN's foundation document, formalized the principles of peace and cooperation to which ASEAN is dedicated. Brunei joined in 1984, shortly after its independence from the United Kingdom, and Vietnam joined ASEAN as its seventh member in 1995. Laos and Burma were admitted into full membership in July 1997 as ASEAN celebrated its 30th anniversary. Cambodia became ASEAN's tenth member in 1999.

The Association commands far greater influence on Asia-Pacific trade, political, and security issues than its members could achieve individually. ASEAN's success has been based largely on its use of consultation, consensus, and cooperation.

ASEAN took the first steps toward an ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) in 1993, when it agreed to eliminate most tariffs on manufactured goods between members over the following decade. Implementation of AFTA hit a snag, however, when Malaysia insisted on postponing tariff reduction for its automobile, the Proton.

Every year following the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting, ASEAN holds its Post-Ministerial Conference (PMC). In 1994, ASEAN took the lead in establishing the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), which now has 23 members and meets each year at the ministerial level just before the PMC.

Enhancing the U.S.-ASEAN Partnership Secretary Rice (July 23): "A strong ASEAN benefits not just Southeast Asia, but greater Asia and indeed, beyond. And so you can count on U.S. support for your efforts to integrate the ASEAN community. We want to continue to be a good partner and support ASEAN, because we share so many common interests. As you've said, our economic relationship is extremely important. Our two-way trade topped $171 billion last year." Full Text | More about the Secretary's trip

U.S. and East Asia and the Pacific: Assisting in Disaster Preparedness The United States provides approximately $16.8 million in annual disaster preparedness and mitigation assistance in the East Asia and Pacific region. This funds efforts to lessen the impact of disasters and to improve the response capabilities of governments and assisting agencies. In addition, when major disasters occur, U.S. agencies, led by USAID’s Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance (OFDA), respond with generous assistance.  Fact Sheet