APEC Trade Ministers Meet in Suzhou Amid Global Shifts

Trade ministers from APEC economies convened in Suzhou for their 32nd annual meeting, where China's Vice Premier He Lifeng outlined Beijing's vision for regional economic cooperation. The event comes at a time when global trade faces mounting pressures from geopolitical tensions and shifting supply chains. He Lifeng stressed that APEC members can only realize inclusive growth by upholding principles of mutual respect and shared benefits. He called for deeper collaboration in new industries, collective support for WTO reform, and pragmatic approaches to regional integration that accommodate diverse economic realities. The vice premier noted China's willingness to inject positive energy into the Asia-Pacific economy through its modernization drive. He emphasized that this approach would benefit not only regional partners but also contribute to broader global economic stability and development. Bilateral engagements on the sidelines included discussions with WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister, highlighting China's active diplomatic outreach during the gathering.