Understanding ECAFE: Promoting Economic Cooperation in East Asia and the Pacific

ECAFE stands for "East Asia and Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum". It is a regional intergovernmental forum that aims to promote economic cooperation and development in East Asia and the Pacific. The forum was established in 1981 and currently has 20 member countries, including Australia, China, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and the United States.

ECAFE's main objectives are to:

* Promote economic growth and development in the region
* Encourage trade and investment liberalization
* Improve economic infrastructure and connectivity
* Enhance regional economic integration and cooperation
* Foster a favorable business environment and promote competitiveness

The forum holds annual meetings of ministers and senior officials, as well as various working-level meetings throughout the year. It also has several committees and working groups that focus on specific issues such as trade, investment, tourism, and infrastructure development.

Overall, ECAFE plays an important role in promoting economic cooperation and development in East Asia and the Pacific, and its member countries work together to address regional economic challenges and opportunities.