What is ASEAN minus X formula?

As an exception to Article 4(1) of AFAS, the ASEAN minus X formula allows two or more member states to liberalize a set of agreed service sectors without having to extend the concessions to nonparticipating member states on a most-favored-nation (MFN) basis.

What is ASEAN X?

The formula “ASEAN minus X” is the unique ASEAN invention when it was introduced in the 1980’s. This process is known as “ASEAN minus X” formula—which countries are ready to participate in any scheme, they can go ahead while non-readied members could join in later.

Should ASEAN minus X be extended?

While preserving its practice of consensus, ASEAN should propose that the ‘ASEAN minus X’ formula, already agreed to and used on economic affairs, be extended to include specific security matters, notably, terrorism and preventive diplomacy.

What does ASEAN centrality mean?

In its most direct and limited sense, ASEAN centrality means that ASEAN lies, and must remain, at the core of Asia (or Asia-Pacific) regional institutions, especially the ASEAN Plus Three (APT), ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and the East Asian Summit (EAS).

Why is consensus important in ASEAN?

First, ASEAN member states view the consensus principle as serving well their need to stay within a dialogue-friendly environment, but also do so without having to worry about infringements into national sovereignty. Third, ASEAN members stick to consensus because of it prevents the ‘tyranny of one’ from taking place.

Can ASEAN overcome the consensus dilemma over the South China Sea?

To overcome this challenge, ASEAN should consider either procedural reforms or institutional innovations. ASEAN could, for example, adopt a majority-vote mechanism acceptable to all member states in dealing with relevant issues where consensus cannot be achieved.

What are the ASEAN plus 3 countries?

The ASEAN-Plus Three (APT) consists of 10 ASEAN Member States, China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea (ROK). The economic cooperation between ASEAN and the Plus Three countries started in 1997 and had evolved ever since.

What is the motto of ASEAN?

One Vision, One Identity, One Community
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN, was established in 1967 in Bangkok, Thailand. Today, the organizaton has ten Member StatesThe motto of the ASEAN is “One Vision, One Identity, One Community”.