Leaders from 21 APEC member economies gathered in Gyeongju, the Republic of Korea (ROK), on November 1 for the final session of the 32nd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting. The high-stakes discussions centered on advancing regional economic integration, sustainable growth, and digital innovation amid global uncertainties.
Hosted by ROK President Yoon Suk-yeol, the meeting emphasized collaborative solutions to supply chain resilience, climate change, and inclusive trade policies. Chinese Premier Li Qiang highlighted the Chinese mainland’s commitment to multilateral cooperation, stating, 'Open regionalism remains vital for shared prosperity.'
Key outcomes included a joint pledge to accelerate clean energy transitions and streamline cross-border e-commerce frameworks. Analysts noted the talks’ focus on bridging development gaps between APEC members, particularly in Southeast Asia and the Pacific.
Gyeongju, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provided a symbolic backdrop for the event, underscoring the intersection of cultural heritage and modern economic priorities. The next APEC Leaders’ Meeting is slated for 2024 in Peru.
