Amid the continued uncertainty in Europe, attention is turning to Asian countries as engines of growth for the region and even the global economy. However, there are pressing questions that Asian countries need to answer as they pursue continued growth, both in their relations with each other and with countries beyond the region.

The ten members of ASEAN have been putting greater focus on building connectivity as they move towards integration into an ASEAN Economic Community in 2015. How much progress has ASEAN made towards this ambitious goal of creating a single market, and what does this mean for countries both within and outside the ASEAN grouping?

The past year has also seen rapid political and economic reform in Myanmar. How should the world react to the "new" Myanmar, and how will these developments affect ASEAN efforts to build regional connectivity?

Looking beyond the grouping, ASEAN's ties to the major economies of Asia, such as Japan, China and Hong Kong will remain important. Relations with the United States are being seen in a new light as well, especially given the Obama administration's push to strengthen links with the Asia-Pacific. But there are issues that could influence these relationships, such as new leadership in China and Hong Kong, plus the presidential elections due in the US.

To tackle these challenges, the 5th ASEAN and Asia Forum will bring together top officials, experts and business leaders to share insights and perspectives. Through this dialogue, participants will identify opportunities and key responses for both policymakers and the private sector.