"Peru seeks stability ahead of APEC 2024 amid social and economic tensions."

In a context of growing social and economic tension, the President of the Council of Ministers, Gustavo Adrianzén, met with leaders of the main business unions in Peru to discuss preparations for the Leaders' Week of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Forum 2024. This meeting took place at a crucial moment, considering the scheduled protests between November 11 and 17, which have raised concerns about their potential impact on the international event.

The joint statement resulting from this meeting reflects a unified position among regional governors, mayors, businesspeople, merchants, professional associations, churches, and representatives of civil society. The participants emphasized the importance of APEC as a platform to highlight the country's business opportunities, urging all actors in Peru to work together to ensure a stable environment.

The document emphasizes that Peru is at a historic juncture, hosting the central meetings that will attract the attention of dignitaries and business delegations from 21 economies. This is a unique opportunity to showcase the country's potential on the international stage, which could translate into business and collaboration opportunities.

In their message, the signatories of the statement called on all levels of government, as well as civil society, to set aside differences that could generate instability. They highlighted that it is crucial to avoid actions that harm Peru's image and hinder the growth of entrepreneurs and productive sectors at a time when the country seeks to reactivate economically.

On the other hand, the need to create conditions for social peace and unity was underscored, not only for the success of APEC but also to build a prosperous future in the Bicentennial of the country's independence. A commitment was reaffirmed among all sectors to collaborate in the fight against insecurity and to strengthen the rule of law, thereby ensuring a conducive environment for development.

The statement also addressed the right to freedom of expression and peaceful protest. However, the leaders expressed their desire that these demonstrations do not disrupt the normal development of activities scheduled during APEC. The invitation is to engage in constructive dialogue and contribute to national development rather than hinder it.

In clear contrast to the scheduled protests, formal transport unions decided not to join the strike announced for the same dates as APEC. Edwin Derteano, president of the Transitemos Foundation, and Martín Ojeda, director of the International Chamber of Transport Industry, stated that the strike does not represent the interests of formal transport and that these sectors do not support actions that generate violence or destabilization.

The decision of formal transporters not to participate in the strike is considered a significant endorsement of the government's efforts and a show of solidarity within the framework of such an important event. Adrianzén highlighted that informality in transportation poses a danger to citizens and that collaboration from all sectors is crucial to address the pending challenges.

In this way, the government of Peru and the business sectors seek to lay the groundwork for a successful APEC that not only promotes dialogue and international cooperation but also strengthens the country's image abroad. As this landmark event approaches, the focus is on the nation's ability to maintain stability and move towards a more promising future.