Speech at APEC Summit Session 2
Urging a Responsible Approach to AI and Digital Norms Formation
President Yoon Suk-yeol on the 17th (local time) called for strengthening cooperation for multilateral and free trade and supply chain recovery, stating, "The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) should prioritize enhancing supply chain cooperation, such as establishing an early warning system."
At the APEC Summit Session 2 held under the theme of 'Connectivity, Inclusive and Resilient Economies,' President Yoon said, "The Asia-Pacific region is the most active area for trade and investment, but because of this, it is also very vulnerable to supply chain disruptions." This session was conducted in a 'retreat' format, allowing leaders to freely exchange opinions without formalities.
President Yoon emphasized, "APEC has played an important role at every turning point of the global economy and must continue to do so," urging efforts to create an inclusive and resilient economy to realize the Putrajaya Vision 2040.
The Putrajaya Vision 2040, adopted at the 2020 APEC Summit held virtually, contains commitments by member countries to cooperate on regional economic integration, advancing work related to the Asia-Pacific Free Trade Area, promoting innovative technology development, inclusive human resource development, and addressing environmental issues.
President Yoon first urged APEC to take leadership in restoring the multilateral trading system. He pointed out that the basic order of free trade is not being properly maintained due to fragmentation caused by the U.S.-China conflict, the Ukraine war, and COVID-19.
President Yoon stressed, "The existing norms must be faithfully observed, and when new areas emerge, universally applicable norms should be timely established for the multilateral trading system to function." He added, "I hope that meaningful progress will be made in WTO reform and plurilateral agreements so that the 13th World Trade Organization (WTO) Ministerial Conference (MC-13) in February next year can become a turning point for restoring the multilateral trading system."
He particularly proposed that APEC should take the lead in strengthening connectivity of regional supply chains and cooperating to build resilient supply chains, suggesting measures such as establishing an early warning system. President Yoon remarked, "Unpredictable actions like suddenly halting routine transactions run directly counter to the spirit of multilateralism and free trade."
President Yoon emphasized that APEC must take the initiative in establishing norms and governance so that artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies can be used for humanity’s freedom and welfare.
Since APEC member countries account for 60% of the world’s gross domestic product (GDP) and hold significant influence over AI and digital usage, he indicated the need for a responsible attitude in setting norms.
President Yoon stated, "The Republic of Korea plans to host the 'AI Global Forum' next year to discuss concrete directions for building AI and digital governance," and added, "I look forward to active participation from member countries."
Earlier, at APEC Summit Session 1 held the previous day, President Yoon explained South Korea’s responsibilities and contribution plans for overcoming the climate crisis.
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