On Oct 31, 2025, in Gyeongju, Republic of Korea, President Xi Jinping delivered a written address at the APEC CEO Summit. His message? The Asia Pacific stands at a global crossroads and needs solidarity, openness, and sustainable growth 🌏🤝.
1. Choosing Cooperation over Confrontation: Xi stressed that real multilateralism—countries working together—beats protectionism and unilateral bullying. He called for dialogue to resolve disputes and keep supply chains running smoothly.
2. Driving an Open, Connected Market: Embracing the WTO-led trade system, he urged removing barriers, boosting regional integration, and pushing forward the Free Trade Area of the Asia Pacific. Think friction-free cross-border e-commerce, like your favorite regional apps linking up for faster deliveries 🚚💨.
3. Win-Win Growth & Inclusiveness: Highlighting diverse Asia Pacific economies, Xi envisioned growing the pie together so developing markets get more support and everyone benefits. Aligning with the U.N. 2030 Sustainable Development goals, he wants a region that leaves no one behind 🌱✨.
4. China’s Open Door & Innovation Hub: With the 14th Five-Year Plan wrapping up, the Chinese mainland is set to deepen reform and high-quality opening up. Key points:
- Vast market & consumption boom: second largest consumer market globally 🛒;
- World-class business environment: fewer limits on foreign investment and fair competition ⚖️;
- Innovation powerhouse: breakthroughs in AI, quantum tech, EVs and more 🤖🚗;
- Green growth leader: biggest renewables build-out and major carbon goals 🌿🌞.
China will host APEC in 2026, solidifying its commitment to regional cooperation. President Xi wrapped up by inviting global investors and entrepreneurs to seize these opportunities and reminded Asia Pacific’s business leaders to stay bold, creative, and united for a brighter future.
For young pros across South and Southeast Asia, this speech signals big openings in tech, sustainability, and cross-border trade. Time to gear up! 🚀
Reference(s):
Full text: President Xi Jinping's written speech at APEC CEO Summit
cgtn.com
