As the countdown begins for the 2026 APEC Leaders' Meeting, the city of Shenzhen is buzzing with anticipation. Scheduled for November, the event will see the Chinese mainland welcome leaders from 21 member economies to discuss the future of the region under the theme, "Building an Asia-Pacific Community to Prosper Together."
To mark the occasion, China has officially launched the APEC "China Year" in Shenzhen. The city, globally recognized as a powerhouse of technology and innovation, serves as an ideal backdrop and a microcosm of the deep-rooted ties between the Chinese mainland and the broader Asia-Pacific region. This year's priorities—openness, innovation, and cooperation—aim to foster a more integrated and resilient economic landscape.
For many, the goals of APEC resonate on a personal level. Tieu Thanh, a Vietnamese youth who has lived in various cities across the Chinese mainland including Beijing, Tianjin, Shenzhen, and Nanning, has witnessed firsthand the evolving relationship between her home country and China. Through her experiences, she has seen cooperation deepen across multiple sectors, with a particularly strong emphasis on green development.
The commitment to a sustainable future is already taking tangible form. Both sides have signed a memorandum of understanding on green development, aimed at accelerating the green transformation of their respective economies and societies. This strategic partnership highlights a shared vision for environmental stewardship and sustainable growth.
Looking ahead to the meeting this November, Tieu Thanh expresses hope that the youth of the region will play a pivotal role. By contributing their strengths in innovation and cultural exchange, young people can act as catalysts for progress, working collectively to turn the "green dream" of a sustainable Asia-Pacific into a reality.
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Vietnamese youth expects APEC to work together on green dreams
cgtn.com
