Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son outlined three priorities for APEC economies, including boosting internal trade and investment, and that with external partners, enhancing the regional connectivity of infrastructure, institutions, and people-to-people exchanges, and taking advantage of digital transformation as a new growth engine.
A group of 80 foreign guests, including spouses of delegates attending the third meeting of the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC III), on July 16 stepped into the timeless world of Chu Dau pottery village in the northern port city of Hai Phong, where artisans keep a centuries-old craft alive. The tour, hosted by the municipal Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism on the sidelines of the meeting from July 15-18, allowed guests to explore the intricate pottery-making process, admire vivid ceramic displays, and try their hand at painting, immersing themselves in a craft that once defined Vietnamese craftsmanship.
The trip was a valuable opportunity for the guests to explore the natural landscape and heritage value of the trans-provincial world natural heritage site, Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago.
The tour, hosted by the municipal Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism on the sidelines of the meeting from July 15-18, allowed guests to explore the intricate pottery-making process, admire vivid ceramic displays, and try their hand at painting, immersing themselves in a craft that once defined Vietnamese craftsmanship.
The exhibition features seven modern booths in a 375 sqm space, designed to showcase the locality’s dynamic and friendly image, as well as its strong socio-economic growth and potential for investment and tourism.
Initiatives proposed by the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) are a driving force for sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region, said State President Luong Cuong at the opening of ABAC III in Hai Phong on July 16.
As the official representative body of the business community within APEC and a key bridge between the private sector and APEC economic leaders, the ABAC not only proposes business-friendly policies but also plays a direct role in creating practical solutions to strengthen value chains, promote investment, facilitate trade flows, and encourage innovation.
ABAC III is among the first activities marking the start of Vietnam’s preparations for hosting APEC in 2027, President Luong Cuong said, calling on the business communities of the APEC economies to continue their support and partnership so that the country can fulfil this important responsibility.
President Luong Cuong expressed his hope that businesses will go beyond merely exploring investment opportunities to co-create value, share knowledge, and work towards a more open, inclusive, and resilient Asia-Pacific in the face of global uncertainties.
Outcomes of ABAC III will shape ABAC’s final policy recommendations to be submitted to the ABAC-APEC leaders’ dialogue, scheduled to take place in the Republic of Korea this November.
