By ASEAN's mid-August 1997 summit, however, euphoria had been dispelled. Instead its members were confronted with a severe and unexpected economic crisis that had brought with it new challenges to ASEAN's prestige, the strength of its members, their ties with one another, and their capacity for joint action. ASEAN as an organization had little to contribute to its members as the economic crisis spread. Likewise, it will have little to contribute to their recovery, which will depend on national policies and the availability of external support. Nevertheless, the prospects that the organization will remain a significant factor on the regional and international scene will be fortified by longstanding patterns of cooperation and the value its members place on ASEAN's contribution to their national standing.  Author: Colbert, Evelyn.   Publication: Pacific Affairs, Dec 22, 1998.