China's role as next host of APEC hailed

Nation looks forward to charting course together in Shenzhen. Mo Jingxi reports

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fter Chinese President Xi Jinping announced on November 1 that the city of Shenzhen in Guangdong province will host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Economic Leaders’ Meeting in 2026, expectations are running high that China will continue to champion openness and cooperation, bringing greater benefits to people across the Asia-Pacific and beyond.

The Chinese cities of Shanghai and Beijing hosted the meetings in 2001 and 2014, respectively.

Xi noted that as the most important platform for economic cooperation in the Asia-Pacific, APEC has made vital contributions to regional growth and prosperity.

“China looks forward to welcoming all sides to Shenzhen next year to chart the course for Asia-Pacific development and work together for a brighter future for the region,” he said.

Xi said China stands ready to take the opportunity to bring all parties together to advance the goal of building an Asia-Pacific community, promote regional growth and prosperity, and energize practical cooperation in key areas such as the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific, connectivity, the digital economy and artificial intelligence.