US: ASEAN Is the Heart of Asia Pacific

solidify - v. make something stronger

retreat - n. a place that is quiet and private

pivot - n. the action of turning around

pursuit –n. the act of following or chasing someone or something

prosperous –adj. having success usually by making a lot of money

provocative – adj. causing discussion, thought, argument, etc.

candid –adj. honest

stable –adj. in a good state or condition that is not easily changed or likely to change

commit –v. to say that someone will definitely do something to make someone obligated to do something