The 5th meeting of the 2025 APEC Summit Preparatory Committee was held on the 22nd at the Government Complex Seoul, chaired by Choi Sang-mok, Acting President and Deputy Prime Minister cum Minister of Economy and Finance. This was the first meeting chaired by Acting President Choi Sang-mok, where discussions took place on the current status of preparations for the APEC Summit, foundational infrastructure, business events, cultural events, and future plans.
Acting President Choi emphasized the significance of the 2025 APEC Summit, highlighting it as the largest multilateral diplomatic platform in South Korea since the G20 Summit in 2010 and the Nuclear Security Summit in 2012. He referred to it as an opportunity to affirm South Korea’s heightened international stature and secure trust and support from the international community. Choi urged cooperation and swift preparations from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, related government departments, local governments, and economic organizations without being swayed by domestic and international circumstances.
Additionally, Lee Cheol-woo, Governor of Gyeongbuk, reported on the progress of major infrastructure developments such as the summit venue, accommodations, transportation, and logistical plans, as well as emergency medical response systems. He proposed that the organizing committee actively engage in creating a national buzz by showing the government’s firm commitment and involving the business community.
Governor Lee also emphasized that the APEC Summit is a prime opportunity to unite the nation and present South Korea as a first-class country to future generations despite the current political situation. He called for all government departments to raise awareness of the event’s significance domestically and internationally and to encourage active participation. He further requested the business community to demonstrate unified efforts, as seen in the bid for the 2030 Busan Expo, to make the APEC Summit a showcase for Korea.
Finally, Governor Lee expressed confidence that the 2025 APEC Summit, like the 1988 Olympics which signaled the end of the Cold War, would contribute significantly to Northeast Asian peace by bringing together global leaders such as Trump and Xi Jinping. He promised thorough preparations to ensure APEC highlights economic and cultural aspects and promotes peace and prosperity.