His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam in a titah said that collective action by the international community is important to prevent further escalation and the spread of ongoing geopolitical conflicts in Palestine, Lebanon, and the Balkans, noting their significant impact on global progress, supply chains, security, and economic stability.
His Majesty delivered the titah at the APEC Leaders’ Informal Dialogue with Guests, which took place at Lima Convention Center (LCC) in Lima, Republic of Peru on Friday.
Accompanying His Majesty was His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen.
His Majesty emphasised APEC’s long-standing role since its founding in 1989 in promoting economic cooperation across the Asia-Pacific region. In addition, His Majesty underscored APEC’s commitment to the Bogor Goals, which focus on free and open trade and support a rules-based multilateral trading system, both of which are essential for improving economic stability and promoting growth.
As APEC advances, His Majesty noted that the region faces new economic challenges that could affect shared prosperity. In response to these challenges, sustainability and inclusivity are vital in today’s global economy.
His Majesty also highlighted APEC’s ongoing focus on sustainable and inclusive growth, as reflected in the Bangkok Goals. These goals demonstrate the region’s ability to adapt to shifting economic realities. Additionally, His Majesty referred to the Ichma Statement as a crucial step in enhancing APEC’s discussions on new areas, including digitalisation.
As technology continues to shape lives, it drives the growth of e-commerce, digital payments, and online education. To truly benefit from digital transformation, His Majesty emphasised the need to build skills that empower people and businesses. Noting the resilience of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the region, especially during COVID-19, His Majesty highlighted the role of initiatives such as the Accelerate Bootcamp and online platforms like Coursera in supporting MSMEs in Brunei Darussalam and beyond.
These initiatives provide the skills needed for MSMEs to succeed. Through these efforts, His Majesty reiterated the commitment to preparing people to thrive in the digital era, ensuring everyone can engage in and benefit from the fast-changing economy.
In concluding the titah, His Majesty extended best wishes to President of the Republic of Korea Yoon Suk Yeol, in hosting APEC in 2025 and Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau, for a successful G7 presidency next year.
The Dialogue, which was attended by the APEC leaders as well as representatives from the Government of the United Arab Emirates; Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations; and the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, among other things discussed agendas on enhancing the effectiveness of economic cooperation in achieving strong, balanced, secure, sustainable and inclusive growth; as well as addressing the needs of the people.
