China arranges for smog-free skies for APEC meeting

China has not only cleared the smog over Beijing for the high-profile Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting but as an apparent gesture of generosity towards it foreign guests, it has also temporarily lifted the ban on social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter besides allowing access to Google and Gmail.

In all, Beijing is putting its best foot forward for the meeting that will see US President Barack Obama, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Japanese PM, Shinzo Abe gather in the city.

BEIJING:

THE RESIDENTS FROM BEIJING ARE GETTING A SIX-DAY HOLIDAY AS THE GOVT SHUTS DOWN THE CITY TO ENSURE POLLUTION-FREE DAYS FOR APEC MEET

Of course, Chinese authorities have earlier lifted such bans at international conferences; in APEC’s case, it was evident, that free internet was only available at the media centre where Chinese and inter national media have gathered to cover the event. The APEC summit started in Beijing on Thursday and runs through Tuesday. The top leaders’ meetings are slated for Monday and Tuesday. WHAT’S EXPECTED For one, an anti-corruption statement will be included in the concluding documents, Alan Bollard, executive director of the APEC Secretariat, said. Discussions will also be held on setting up of the Free Trade Area of the AsiaPacific. But if its serious work for the APEC leaders, millions of residents from Beijing and its suburbs are getting a six-day holiday as the government shuts down the city to ensure pollution-free days and smooth traffic.