Beijing, Nov. 4 (Jiji Press)–Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi called for strengthening a free, fair and rules-based international economic order at a virtual ministerial meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum on Tuesday. “In today’s world, where uncertainty in the global economy is ever-increasing, it is crucial to strengthen a free, fair and rules-based international economic order,” the Japanese Foreign Ministry on Wednesday quoted Motegi as saying at the meeting. Motegi’s remarks appeared to reflect concerns over economic coercion and protectionism. Japanese industry minister Ryosei Akazawa also attended the meeting. Ministers from several countries, including Japan and South Korea, called for an early de-escalation of the situation in the Middle East, for energy security. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who chaired the gathering, stressed the importance of maintaining the multilateral trading system, according to the Chinese government. Economic globalization is facing headwinds, Wang said, apparently referring to the U.S. trade policy focusing on its own national interests. Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao also emphasized adherence to free trade. China will host a summit of APEC leaders in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, on Nov. 18-19. Cooperation on artificial intelligence and the digital economy will be main agenda items at the meeting, according to the APEC Secretariat. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]
