Herman wrote hosting the event this year, having done so before in 2006, marks an important milestone in the implementation of Vietnam’s external policies of diversification and multilateralisation of relations and creates an opportunity for the Southeast Asian country to promote economic growth.

With the participation of leaders from member economies and thousands of leading regional and global enterprises, Vietnam expects to draw investment to develop its economy and promote tourism through the forum, he added.

Vietnam also demonstrated its role as the host of the forum by proposing the theme and priorities suitable with the country and other members’ benefits.

Themed “Creating New Dynamism, Fostering a Shared Future”, this year’s forum is expected to enhance connectivity and international economic growth.

Vietnam proposed four main priorities, including promoting sustainable, innovative and inclusive growth, deepening regional economic integration, strengthening competitiveness and innovation for micro-, small-and medium-sized enterprises in the digital age, and enhancing food security and sustainable agriculture in response to climate change.

Herman also lauded Vietnam’s socio-economic development in recent years. With stable development and high growth, Vietnam is affirming its position in Asia, he said.

Along with international economic integration, Vietnam has been improving its legal system to improve the domestic business and investment environment, create favourable conditions for foreign investors, and increase economic competitiveness.

Vietnam is one of the most attractive destinations for overseas investors, he added.

Meanwhile, President of the Czech-Vietnam Society Marcel Winter hailed the significance of the APEC Year 2017 hosted by Vietnam. 

He said the forum will continue to help strengthen economic relations among member economies and affirm its leading position in establishing regional connectivity and promoting peace, stability, cooperation and development in Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

Through the forum, businesses from Vietnam and other member economies will have opportunities to connect and seek partners, he added.

Established in 1989, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum comprises 21 economies, including Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China, Hong Kong-China, Indonesia, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Chinese Taipei, Thailand, the US, and Vietnam.

Source:VNA