Call for Apec to rise above challenges

BANGKOK: The Asia-pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) economies should rise above challenges to give hope amid increasing inflation, rising food and energy prices, inequality and climate change.

Ministers and representatives at the 21 Apec-member economies aligned their ideas to advance Asia-pacific integration, trade and investment in the pursuit of a sustained and inclusive recovery in an uncertain world at the 33rd Apec ministerial meeting here.

They also focused on the next step to reconnect the region, develop safe passage and build resilience, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic.

Under the theme “Open. Connect. Balance”, they exchanged views on the bio-circular-green (BCG) economy model and how it can help Apec members achieve a sustainable and inclusive recovery, as well as long-term growth.

The BCG integrates the bio-economy which encourages reuse and recycling as well as the green economy.

Drawing on the lessons from the last two years, ministers and representatives deliberated on measures to improve coordination between their health policies to ensure that travel in the region will remain open and safe in the face of future pandemics and shocks.