Spokesperson Guo Jiakun noted that this is the first formal event in the preparatory process for the start of the country’s official APEC Year activities.

He indicated that the meeting will focus on the theme of the 2026 edition: “Building an Asia-Pacific Community and Promoting Common Prosperity.”

According to Guo, three priority areas will be addressed: openness, innovation, and cooperation.

The spokesperson stated that the meetings will comprehensively launch collaboration across various sectors and mechanisms.

He also pointed out that the outcomes will help build consensus for the informal leaders’ meeting scheduled for next November.

China assumed the APEC presidency in 2026 amid regional efforts to strengthen economic integration, trade, and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region.

APEC comprises 21 economies and represents nearly half of global trade.

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