This flagship study of ADB and ADBI takes stock of existing institutions for regional cooperation and integration in Asia and the Pacific and discusses the need for institutional innovation and reform in moving toward the creation of an Asian economic community.

The study analyzes why, despite a dense network of arrangements and institutions, Asia remains "institution light" - marked by few formal or explicit commitments from member countries in terms of an agenda for cooperation. It lays out the general principles and options to strengthen the region's institutional architecture to achieve the goal of an Asian economic community.

Rajat M. Nag, ADB Managing Director General will deliver the welcome remarks, and Masahiro Kawai, ADBI Dean and CEO, will present a brief background, key findings and recommendations of the book. Following the presentation, there will be a panel discussion.

ADBI website