At the invitation of New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, tonight I will attend the virtual APEC Informal Leaders' Retreat.
I commend Prime Minister Ardern for organising this Retreat to discuss the health and economic recovery of our region as we work to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic.
APEC has a proven track record of bringing the region's economies together to bridge divides and enhance regional cooperation.
It is a critical time for Australia to engage with regional partners to promote free trade facilitation, in particular for vaccines and essential goods; build momentum for strengthening the multilateral trading system; and secure a sustainable and inclusive recovery.
I look forward to discussing the key role that APEC and businesses can play in the region's recovery efforts and to build an open, dynamic and resilient Asia-Pacific community, for the health and prosperity of all our people and future generations.
