Xi Jinping Advocates for Free Trade at APEC Amid Trump's Absence

At the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Gyeongju, South Korea, Chinese President Xi Jinping underscored China's dedication to defending global free trade and multilateralism. His remarks came as U.S. President Donald Trump departed the country early, opting not to attend the forum.

Xi highlighted the importance of stable supply chains and cooperation in green industries, expressing China's openness to foreign investment. He held bilateral meetings with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, with plans to meet South Korean President Lee Jae Myung to discuss regional issues.

The summit addressed challenges such as U.S.-China strategic competition, technological shifts, and demographic changes. South Korea, as the host nation, prioritized discussions on artificial intelligence and demographic issues, aiming to foster regional cooperation and economic integration.