 ASEAN has been credited by many as among the world's most influential organisations and a global powerhouse.The organisation plays a prominent role in regional and international diplomacy, politics, security, economy and trade.The ASEAN Free Trade Area also stands as one of the largest and most important free trade areas in the world, and together with its network of dialogue partners, drove some of the world's largest multilateral forums and blocs, including APEC, EAS and RCEP.