41.   Strong productivity gains, massive infrastructure investment and booming exports are fueling a US Midwest growth spurt that economists say should run well into the next decade.

42.   The first, in Honolulu, Hawaii, in March last year laid the groundwork for two other key agenda items -- capital flows and infrastructure investment.

43.   The meeting proper, which starts Sunday, is expected to focus on currency stabilisation in the region and mobilising private sector funds for infrastructure investment.