The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit kicked off in Lima with Peruvian President Dina Boluarte delivering the opening speech to assembled leaders. President Joe Biden arrived a few minutes late, as is customary for the US president, and took his seat at the large circular table.
President Boluarte highlighted the importance of advancing economic opportunities in the Pacific region, setting the tone for the discussions to follow. Biden greeted leaders from Thailand and Vietnam before putting on a translation headset to listen to the proceedings.
During the opening session, Biden engaged in friendly conversation with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese before the cameras were turned off for the closed-door discussions that followed. The first session was described as an 'informal dialogue' by the organizers, with Biden not expected to speak.
This marks Biden's final APEC summit as he nears the end of his term in office. The summit aims to address key economic issues facing the Asia-Pacific region and foster cooperation among member nations.
