APEC trade and finance officials to meet in Singapore in Feb & July
By S Ramesh, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 14 January 2009 1326 hrs

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SINGAPORE: For the first time, Singapore will bring together Asia-Pacific's senior trade and finance officials next month and in July to discuss fiscal and monetary measures to help businesses and workers tide over the economic crisis.

In the past, these senior officials had separate meetings.

As the host of this year's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Meetings, Singapore will work with other APEC member economies to accelerate regional economic integration "at the border", "behind the border" and "across the border".

APEC will also give priority to provide impetus for the successful conclusion of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Doha Round of talks.

Singapore stressed that securing a global deal will not only help deliver new trade flows but also a firewall against protectionist pressures.

This year's theme is "Sustaining Growth, Connecting the Region".

Singapore's Trade and Industry Ministry said on Wednesday the theme reflects APEC's continuing efforts to facilitate trade and investment in the Asia-Pacific region.

It added that these efforts have gained greater importance in view of the challenging economic environment.

Also launched on Wednesday was a special logo to commemorate APEC 2009.

It depicts the 21 economies coming together to convene at a single point, working towards unity, cooperation and synergy to advance common interests.

- CNA/yb