Apec 2023: China’s Xi Jinping calls for united push on technology and free trade
- Xi highlights role of innovation in growth as 21-member grouping wraps up annual conference in San Francisco
- Free trade should not be weaponised or politicised, he says, capping his trip to the United States
“Innovation is a strong driver of development,” Xi told the Apec Economic Leaders’ Meeting chaired by US President Joe Biden.
“We should follow the trends of scientific and technological advancement, more proactively promote exchanges and cooperation in science and technology, and work together for an open, fair, equitable and non-discriminatory environment for scientific and technological progress.”
Countries should work together to safeguard free trade and to maintain “open and stable” global industrial and supply chains, Xi said, adding that the region “must say no to any attempt to politicise, weaponise, or impose security implications on economic and trade issues”.
According to a statement from the Chinese foreign ministry, Xi said China was not trying to “replace anyone” and the world’s second-biggest economy was willing to share its development opportunities with the rest of the world.
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‘Door to China-US relations will not be closed again’: Xi Jinping offers assurances to US businesses
The remarks capped Xi’s high-stakes visit to the United States.
