Gyeongju: The upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in South Korea presents a significant opportunity for President Lee Jae Myung's administration to demonstrate its "pragmatic" diplomatic strategies. This gathering of world leaders is set against the backdrop of escalating protectionism and the potential imposition of U.S. tariffs.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the summit is scheduled for October 31 and November 1 in the city of Gyeongju and is gaining attention as expectations rise regarding the attendance of U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Their confirmed participation would allow President Lee to engage in bilateral discussions on the sidelines, addressing issues such as North Korea and other mutual concerns.
The summit is expected to attract around 20,000 participants, including approximately 3,500 government delegates from the 21 APEC member economies. Since its launch on June 4, the Lee administration has been working diligently to prepare for the summit, establishing a task force led by Prime Minister Kim Min-seok to ensure comprehensive planning for the event.
Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung emphasized the importance of the summit, stating, "The Lee Jae Myung government considers the successful hosting of the APEC summit a top priority." The administration is committed to creating an environment that fosters innovative economic growth in the Asia-Pacific region.
Official invitations have been extended to all APEC members, including Russia and Taiwan. While Russian President Vladimir Putin has refrained from attending APEC summits since the 2022 conflict with Ukraine, Xi Jinping is expected to participate, aligning with Seoul and Beijing's efforts to maintain stable bilateral relations. Trump's attendance is also anticipated, marking his first visit to South Korea in five years and Xi's in eleven years.
Under the theme "Building a Sustainable Tomorrow," this year's summit will focus on "connect," "innovate," and "prosper," highlighting APEC's dedication to fostering a resilient and inclusive future. Yoon Seong-mee, chair of the APEC Senior Officials' Meeting, noted the summit's emphasis on addressing protectionism and fragmented supply chains to bolster the multilateral trading system.
The summit will also address the digital divide, particularly the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in transforming the Asia-Pacific region. South Korea aims to propose cooperative strategies among APEC members to ensure the safe and inclusive use of AI.
Additionally, discussions will cover shared challenges such as energy, food security, and demographic changes. South Korea plans to raise issues related to declining birthrates and aging populations, pressing concerns that are becoming increasingly relevant for many countries.