Peru is preparing to host APEC leaders in November 2024.

Peru is preparing to welcome leaders from 21 economies that make up the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Forum in its thirty-first edition, which will take place from November 9 to 16, 2024. This event not only represents an important milestone in the country’s international agenda but also places it in the global spotlight, aiming to strengthen ties and discuss strategies in an economic context that includes more than 60% of the world's GDP and nearly half of global trade.

President Dina Boluarte will lead the organization of the event, which will be held in Lima and will gather significant heads of state, including U.S. President Joe Biden and the President of the People's Republic of China, Xi Jinping. This meeting is crucial for Peru, which seeks to position itself as a relevant player in the political and economic dynamics of the Asia-Pacific region.

Chancellor Elmer Schialer announced the confirmation of the arrival of up to 19 government officials, of which 16 are presidents of member countries. This figure underscores the magnitude of the event and the importance of Peru in international diplomacy. Expectations are high, particularly due to the potential for these meetings to generate trade and investment opportunities that benefit the national economy.

Participating countries include Australia, Canada, Korea, Japan, Chile, and several others from the region, highlighting the diversity and interconnectedness of the economies that comprise APEC. However, the absence of certain figures, such as Russian President Vladimir Putin, who will not attend due to an arrest warrant against him, adds a political nuance to the event, suggesting the complexity of current international relations.

APEC, which has sought to promote quality economic growth since its establishment in 1989, focuses on key issues such as trade and investment, innovation, and sustainability. This year, the theme "Empower, Include, Grow" reflects an emphasis on inclusive development and the pursuit of growth that benefits all, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and women.

The forum will also address contemporary challenges such as the climate crisis and post-pandemic recovery. Discussions are expected to generate a framework for cooperation among nations that allows them to tackle these challenges collectively, highlighting the importance of technological innovation and transparent trade in economic development.

More than 160 meetings have been planned as part of the preparatory process for APEC 2024, a considerable effort that demonstrates Peru’s commitment to international cooperation. These meetings will allow leaders to discuss strategies for implementing policies that foster a predictable trading environment and support digitalization.

The outcomes of this forum will not only impact APEC member countries but will also have repercussions on the global economy. The interconnectedness of economies and multilateral cooperation are more than necessary in a world facing various crises that require innovative and collaborative solutions.

Finally, the arrival of dignitaries from around the world to Peruvian soil is not only an opportunity for international dialogue but also a crucial moment for Peru to showcase its cultural wealth and economic potential. The global attention that APEC 2024 will attract is undoubtedly a valuable platform for the country, which seeks to demonstrate its capacity to be a leader in cooperation and development in the Asia-Pacific region.