Jeong Chungrae Emphasizes APEC Summit as Opportunity
for Expanding Korea's Diplomatic Capabilities and Boosting Exports
On August 20, Jeong Chungrae, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, stated, "I sincerely hope that the success of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit will serve as a springboard for the expansion of Korea's diplomatic capabilities and for increased exports, ultimately propelling the Korean economy forward."
Jeong Chungrae, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, is presiding over and speaking at the highest council meeting held on the 20th at the Gyeongju Hwabaek Convention Center (HICO) in Gyeongju, Gyeongbuk Province, where the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit is taking place. Photo by Yonhap News
At the top committee meeting held that day at the Gyeongju Hwabaek Convention Center in Gyeongbuk, Jeong emphasized, "The success of APEC is synonymous with patriotism and the national interest."
He continued, "As a nation that relies on exports, Korea has a high degree of external dependence, which makes diplomacy inevitably important. Just as the entire nation demonstrated its capabilities during the 1988 Olympics, I ask the people to once again showcase their strength here in Gyeongju."
Jeong added, "The APEC summit is an opportunity for Korea to take the lead in strengthening national and private sector economic security cooperation and to establish a new trade order, especially at a time when the global trade system is being shaken by the spread of protectionism. It is also a chance to show the world Korea's ability to overcome internal strife."
Jeong and the Democratic Party leadership have continued their activities in Gyeongju for the second consecutive day, focusing on public livelihood issues.
Jeong said, "After inspecting the site yesterday, I found that while it is not perfect, I witnessed efforts to address the shortcomings that had been neglected since the Lee Jaemyung administration took office, and to ensure success by making improvements one by one. Although there are still areas that are incomplete and lacking, I believe that all necessary facilities and systems can be put in place before the APEC summit opens."
Meanwhile, according to the APEC Preparation Support Team, the conference venue is scheduled to be completed by the middle of next month. The current completion rate stands at 59%.
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