Suzhou: The Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministers Responsible for Trade have reaffirmed their commitment to bolstering supply chain resilience in the face of ongoing global economic uncertainties and disruptions. They also emphasized the importance of collaboration to enhance the World Trade Organization (WTO). The discussions took place during the APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting in Suzhou, People's Republic of China, where digitalisation and innovation were highlighted as key drivers for creating opportunities and fostering inclusive and sustainable growth across the region.
According to Radio Television Brunei, Brunei Darussalam's representation at the meeting was led by Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Doctor Awang Haji Mohd. Amin Liew bin Abdullah, Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Second Minister of Finance and Economy. He reiterated Brunei's strong support for a rules-based multilateral trading system with the WTO at its core. He emphasized maintaining open, resilient, and secure supply chains amidst geopolitical and geo-economic uncertainties. The Minister also underscored the importance of advancing regional economic integration through APEC initiatives, such as the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP), and recognized frameworks like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership as vital for future economic cooperation.
In addition to the discussions at the meeting, the Minister held bilateral talks with Singapore's Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, Her Excellency Grace Fu Hai Yien; New Zealand's Minister for Trade and Investment, His Excellency Todd McClay; and Japan's State Minister for Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Horii Iwao, to explore areas of mutual interest.