APEC leaders urge stronger free trade and climate action in final statement

Leaders of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) group met and called for stronger free trade and climate action. This comes amid concerns about the incoming US president-elect, Donald Trump, who is skeptical of multilateral trade agreements. The final statement emphasized the need for effective cooperation in a challenging global trade environment. APEC reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the Asia-Pacific as a dynamic and interconnected region. The 19-point declaration included goals for climate change, food and energy security, and World Trade Organization reform. APEC highlighted the importance of its numerous working group meetings that address various trade issues.