Explanation of "Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)"
Definition: The "Association of Southeast Asian Nations," often shortened to ASEAN, is a group of countries in Southeast Asia that work together for economic and political cooperation. They also collaborate with other countries, like the United States, to tackle global issues such as terrorism.
Advanced Usage:
In discussions about international relations, you might hear about ASEAN’s role in trade agreements or security partnerships. You can say, "ASEAN has been instrumental in fostering economic growth among its member states."
Word Variants:
ASEAN+3: This refers to the ASEAN countries plus China, Japan, and South Korea, indicating a broader cooperation.
ASEAN Economic Community (AEC): This is a specific initiative within ASEAN aimed at creating a single market and production base.
Different Meanings:
While "ASEAN" specifically refers to the association of Southeast Asian nations, the term "association" in general can mean a group of people or organizations working together for a common purpose, not limited to countries.
Synonyms:
Regional organization: This is a broader term that can refer to any group of countries working together in a specific area.
Alliance: This can refer to a group of nations that agree to cooperate for a specific purpose.
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "ASEAN," but you might hear the phrase "join forces," which means to come together to achieve a common goal. For example: "The ASEAN countries joined forces to enhance regional security."
Summary:
In summary, the "Association of Southeast Asian Nations" is an important regional group that fosters cooperation among Southeast Asian countries, focusing on economic growth and political stability.