The 29th APEC Ministerial Meeting opens in Da Nang city on Nov 8, 2017

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh said since AMM-28 in Lima, Peru, last year, APEC has witnessed improved cooperation among member economies to deal with arising challenges to growth and regional connectivity.

Mr. Minh suggested APEC strengthen cooperation and economic alliance to generate driving force for regional and international growth, prepare for the 4th century of APEC’s development, and benefit the people and businesses as a whole. “Our meeting today has three main objectives. First to review the work and APEC processes this year. Second to finalize preparation for our economic leaders’ meeting in the next two days. Third to decide on ways to push forward cooperation in some major areas.”

Minister of Industry and Trade Tran Tuan Anh said although APEC has gained certain cooperation results, challenges have become more complicated including trade protectionism. “By this time in 2020 the Bogor goal will have been achieved. At MRT meeting 23 last May in Hanoi, APEC trade ministers expressed strong commitments to achieving the Bogor goal. At this AMM, we’ll review APEC work in this very important area and discuss next step to advance this process.”

The delegates will discuss measures to enhance regional connectivity and growth quality, trade facilitation, distribution networking, digital economy, electronic commerce, multi-lateral trade, and support for small, medium, and micro enterprises.