Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, also known as APEC, is a regional economy forum. It started in 1989 after the initial suggestion from Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke for the more effective economic cooperation across the Asia-Pacific Rim. With the years of development, APEC has gradually grown into the highest cooperation system of Asia-Pacific Rim.

Now, APEC is becoming the main force of promoting free trade, investment liberalization and technical cooperation among the 21 member economies, which include Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong of China, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, The Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Chinese Taipei, Thailand, The United States and Viet Nam.

Beijing becomes the second city in China to organize APEC meetings. The first APEC city of China is Shanghai. In 2001, Shanghai successfully hosted APEC and Shanghai Accord was endorsed by the APEC leaders.

Lately Beijing has been criticized many times for the air pollution. The meeting site in Yanqihu shows the determination of Beijing to improve its environment and develop the sustainable economy without risking the nature.

Another watching focus about APEC Beijing 2014 is the food. With what kinds of food will Beijing cater to the APEC leaders in 2014? Back to APEC Shanghai 2011, a dish called Braised Matsutake in Chicken Soup won the favor of many APEC leaders. At that time, the dinner menu consisted of one cold dish, four hot dishes, one dissert and fruits. All the raw materials of the food were made in China.

The third interest about APEC Beijing 2014 will be the fashion element. The fashion photos of APEC leaders can always occupy the front pages of the world newspapers. Nearly all the organizers will design their traditional costumes for the leaders. For instance, In 2001, Shanghai of China offered Tangzhuang.

The role of APEC in promoting free trade and the economic development of member economies is self-evident. China hopes to build a closer relationship with all the members in APEC Beijing 2014 and form a truly harmonious community in the Asia-Pacific region. With its unique charm, Beijing looks forward to hosting a successful AELW and wishes all participants a pleasant stay!