Marcos eyes stronger collaboration at APEC

Expected to forge deeper ties in AI-driven innovation, other shared goals

- ARGYLL CYRUS GEDUCOS and BETHEENA UNITE

President Marcos arrived here on Thursday, Oct. 30, kicking off his participation in the 32nd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting in Gyeongju, South Korea, where he would lobby for stronger collaboration in achieving shared objectives for sustainable, technologically empowered, and inclusive future.

The President and his delegation landed at 5 p.m. (Busan time) at the Gimhae International Airport aboard Philippine Airlines PR001, a day after he returned to Manila from his participation in the 47th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits in Malaysia.

Under the overarching theme "Building Sustainable Tomorrow: Connect, Innovate, Prosper," this year's AELM brings together Leaders and Delegates from 21 member economies to set the stage for a year of policy deliberations and cooperation on trade, digital transformation, and sustainability.

In his departure speech in Manila, President Marcos expressed confidence that his attendance at the 32nd AELM will produce concrete and meaningful outcomes that enhance cooperation, drive connectivity, and promote inclusive prosperity.

He stressed that the APEC meeting is imperative, considering the immense economic gravity of the APEC region. He noted that it accounts for nearly 46 percent of global trade in goods and commercial services, and generates roughly 61 percent of the total global GDP.