The leaders are also expected to discuss a joint plan to strengthen the defense of their countries against severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), a disease that has affected many countries in the region.

The leaders will also review a series of measures to prevent the spread of SARS, particularly the screening of passengers at entry and exit points of all transport facilities including airports and railway stations.

Thai foreign Minister Surakiat Sathirathai said he expected the summit would help restore confidence both within and outside ASEAN.

He said information exchanges on SARS will also be established at the end of the summit.

Preventive and screening measures were proposed at a meeting of ASEAN health ministers in Kuala Lumpur last Saturday, and the ASEAN leaders are expected to review these measures and add their suggestions at the summit.

Security is heightened in and around the compound of Thailand's Foreign Ministry, where the special ASEAN summit is to be held. Infrared thermometers are installed to check body temperatures of all participants and journalists.

(Xinhua News Agency April 29, 2003)