Shenzhen: China will host the 33rd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in its southern Guangdong province's Shenzhen city on November 18-19 next year, state media reported Friday. Chinese President Xi Jinping, speaking at the handover ceremony of the 32nd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Gyeongju, stated that Beijing is prepared to unite all parties to advance the goal of an Asia Pacific community. The focus will be on promoting growth, prosperity, and energizing practical cooperation on priorities including FTAAP (Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific), connectivity, digital economy, and AI, aiming to invigorate development in the Asia Pacific region and deliver more benefits to its people.

According to Anadolu Agency, a statement from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government on Friday revealed that the city will host the APEC Finance Ministers' Meeting for the first time in October, ahead of the leaders' summit. Chief Executive John Lee emphasized that the Hong Kong SAR Government will use Hong Kong's experience and strengths as an international financial center to ensure the successful organization of the Finance Ministers' Meeting in Hong Kong. He highlighted that Hong Kong will leverage this opportunity to deepen international exchanges and cooperation, enhancing its integration into and service to the overall national development.