The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN ) is a geo-political and ______(1)_______ organization of ten countries ______(2)_______ in Southeast Asia, which was formed on 8 August 1967 by Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. Since then, membership has expanded ______(3)_______ Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam. ______(4)_______ to accelerate economic growth, to enhance social progress, ______(5)_______ cultural development among its members, to protect regional peace and stability, and to provide opportunities for member countries to discuss differences peacefully.