The 2025 APEC meetings wrapped up on Saturday, and Chinese President Xi Jinping announced that Shenzhen in south China will host the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in 2026.
For Tang Yan Joo, a Malaysian student studying at Tsinghua University, the announcement capped off a meaningful week. “President Xi’s speech at the first session of the 32nd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting offered meaningful inspiration for the future growth and development of the Asia-Pacific region,” Tang says.
Looking ahead, Tang hopes the 2026 summit goes beyond big speeches. She’s watching for practical solutions that can translate to real impact:
- Boosting Trade: Tang sees potential in deeper cross-border partnerships that can help entrepreneurs and small businesses tap new markets.
- Strengthening Digital Ties: “We need faster, more secure networks to support remote work, startups and e-commerce across borders,” she adds.
- Driving Green Connections: From clean energy projects to sustainable supply chains, Tang believes environmental goals can spur economic innovation.
- Ensuring Fair Development: “Growth should leave no one behind,” she says, pointing to the need for inclusive policies that support women, young people and underserved communities.
As the world’s eyes turn toward Shenzhen in 2026, voices like Tang’s remind us that the next APEC summit is more than a gathering of leaders—it’s an opportunity to shape a fairer, greener and more connected Asia-Pacific.
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Malaysian youth shares her views on President Xi Jinping's speech
cgtn.com
