APEC summit wraps up in Peru with Xi Jinping in spotlight as U.S. leadership change looms
The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum concluded in Lima, Peru, after two days of discussions focused on economic engagement. The summit featured leaders from 21 Pacific economies, including U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Biden's late arrival for the traditional family photo highlighted tensions, as he joined the group after a five-minute wait. Xi took a prominent position in the photo, emphasizing China's commitment to globalization amid rising protectionism. The summit's discussions were overshadowed by the upcoming leadership change in the U.S., with President-elect Donald Trump expected to shift away from global free trade initiatives. Biden and Xi held their final meeting later that day.