President Lee Jae-myung said on the 1st that the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) adopted the Gyeongju Declaration, a medium- to long-term future blueprint for an open, dynamic and peaceful APEC.
At a news conference after the APEC leaders' meeting at the International Media Center (IMC) near the Gyeongju Hwabaek International Convention Center (HICO) in North Gyeongsang, Lee said that the declaration embodies members' commitment to cooperation for collaboration and growth in the Asia-Pacific region, and stated accordingly.
Lee added that the declaration emphasizes the need to create new growth engines through innovation and to pursue inclusive growth that shares the fruits of growth broadly.
Lee also said APEC adopted the AI (artificial intelligence) initiative, explaining that it sets policy directions so all members can take part in the AI transition and share its benefits.
Lee said it emphasizes economic growth through innovation, promoting cooperation among the private sector, government and academia, and investing in AI infrastructure, calling it the first-ever joint AI vision in APEC's history.
He went on to say APEC also adopted the joint framework on responding to demographic change, adding that it presents policies to respond to demographic shifts caused by low birthrates and aging, and that it proposes cooperation measures such as building an economic system for a resilient society, strengthening health and care services through technological innovation, and developing human resources to meet future labor demand.
Lee said Korea has always been with APEC on its historic journey, noting that it served as chair in 2005 and adopted the Busan Roadmap, and that this year it restored cooperation among members with the Gyeongju Declaration.
He added that he is confident the three documents adopted this time will clearly chart the course APEC should take going forward, and that Korea will continue to join the journey for APEC's development and the Asia-Pacific region's prosperity.