BANGKOK: Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali, in his capacity as the Special Representative of the Prime Minister, will lead Malaysia’s delegation to the 29th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting (AELM) in Bangkok, Thailand, from Nov 18 to 19.
The International Trade and Industry Ministry (MITI) said under the chairmanship of Thailand and guided by the theme “Open. Connect. Balance.”, APEC leaders are expected to engage on a wide-range of topics aimed at navigating the region towards a path of inclusive recovery, as well as sustainable and balanced growth, post-COVID-19.
“Malaysia’s continued participation at the AELM reflects our unwavering commitment in advancing the core objectives of APEC, namely promoting sustainable economic growth, trade and investment, as well as prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region,” MITI said in a statement today.
The APEC Economic Leaders’ Week (AELW), the group’s first in-person summit in four years, is being held from Nov 14 to 19 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre in Bangkok.
In 2019, the AELW scheduled in Chile was cancelled due to anti-government protests across cities in the country. In 2020, Malaysia held a virtual AELW while in 2021, New Zealand hosted another virtual summit following a COVID-19 hiatus.
The statement added Mohd Zuki is scheduled to participate in the APEC Leaders’ Retreat, Informal Dialogue Sessions on Promoting Trade and Investments, as well as Dialogue with APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) members.
The APEC economic leaders will also have an audience with Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn, MITI said.
“At the end of the AELM, the leaders are expected to endorse the 2022 APEC Economic Leaders’ Declaration as well as adopt the Bangkok Goals on Bio Circular-Green Economy which will chart the region’s path towards sustainable and inclusive growth,” it said.
Meanwhile, Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said as this year’s host economy for the summit, Thailand welcomes leaders and representatives from 21 economies, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and US Vice-President Kamala Harris.
Thailand also invited Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud and French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss how APEC and its trading partners can work together to promote sustainable trade and investment amid on-going economic challenges.
Two important activities involving APEC business leaders and youth will be held in conjunction the AELW – APEC CEO Summit and APEC Voices of the Future 2022.
Delicate Thai cuisine, arts and crafts as well as cultural performances will be showcased throughout the week to highlight Thailand’s cultural identity and unique hospitality. – BERNAMA
