Background on Marcelo Ebrard and APEC
Marcelo Ebrard, Mexico’s Secretary of Economy, emphasized the ethical responsibility of regional integration within the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum during the APEC Leaders Summit in Gyeongju, South Korea. APEC comprises 21 economies representing 61% of the global GDP, including Australia, Canada, China, Japan, Mexico, the United States, and others. The forum promotes free trade, investment, sustainable growth, digital innovation, and economic inclusion by fostering cooperation between governments and the private sector.
Context of Ebrard’s Statement
Ebrard’s call for regional integration comes amid ongoing tensions between China and the United States, weakening of the World Trade Organization (WTO), and rapid global technological changes. He highlighted the importance of strengthening both internal growth and development alongside the international trade system, as the world undergoes profound transformation.
Key Interactions at APEC Summit
During the summit, Ebrard engaged in discussions with several world leaders:
- Xi Jinping: President of China; Ebrard congratulated Xi on his re-election and wished him success in China’s APEC chairmanship in 2026.
- Mark Carney: Prime Minister of Canada; Ebrard expressed Mexico’s willingness to deepen economic cooperation and successfully review the USMCA in 2026.
- Sanae Takaichi: Prime Minister of Japan; Ebrard congratulated Takaichi on becoming the first female Prime Minister of Japan, extending warm regards from President Claudia Sheinbaum and the Mexican people.
- Scott Bessent: Secretary of the Treasury of the United States; Ebrard discussed economic cooperation and shared Mexico’s commitment to digital technology adoption, smart infrastructure, and green energy solutions.
- Lee Jae Myung: President of South Korea; Ebrard congratulated Lee on his election and reaffirmed Mexico’s eagerness to host APEC in 2028.
Mexico’s Role in APEC and Future Initiatives
Ebrard stressed the need to bolster multilateral activities and collaborate with trading partners on nearshoring investments, advanced manufacturing, and other areas. He acknowledged the importance of private sector involvement and Mexico’s efforts to promote digital technologies, smart infrastructure, and green energy solutions.
Mexico aims to act as a bridge between Asia and the Americas, proposing to host APEC in 2028. The country intends to champion an agenda that celebrates diversity and enhances the region’s collective capacity to address global challenges. Ebrard believes APEC can significantly contribute to WTO reform and other institutional improvements during uncertain times.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is APEC? The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) is a forum comprising 21 economies, including Australia, Canada, China, Japan, Mexico, and the United States. It aims to promote free trade, investment, sustainable growth, digital innovation, and economic inclusion.
- Who is Marcelo Ebrard? Marcelo Ebrard is Mexico’s Secretary of Economy, who emphasized the ethical responsibility of regional integration within APEC during the APEC Leaders Summit in South Korea.
- What is the significance of Ebrard’s statement? Ebrard highlighted the importance of strengthening both internal growth and international trade systems amid ongoing tensions between major economies, WTO weaknesses, and rapid technological changes.
- What were the key interactions at the APEC Summit? Ebrard engaged in discussions with world leaders, including Xi Jinping, Mark Carney, Sanae Takaichi, Scott Bessent, and Lee Jae Myung, focusing on economic cooperation, digital technology adoption, and APEC’s future.
- What is Mexico’s role in APEC? Mexico aims to act as a bridge between Asia and the Americas, proposing to host APEC in 2028. The country intends to champion an agenda that celebrates diversity and enhances the region’s capacity to address global challenges.
