US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (left) and US Trade Representative Katherine Tai chair the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Ministerial Meeting opening session in San Francisco, California, Nov 14, 2023. (PHOTO / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / AFP)

SAN FRANCISCO - The 2023 APEC Ministerial Meeting kicked off on Tuesday with a focus on creating a resilient and sustainable future.

Blinken noted the existence of many economic challenges despite progress toward a more prosperous future during the past three decades

Interconnectedness, innovation, strengthening inclusivity and unleashing people's untapped potential are the three priorities in the days ahead, according to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who co-hosted the opening plenary session with US Trade Representative Katherine Tai.

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Blinken noted the existence of many economic challenges despite progress toward a more prosperous future during the past three decades.

Tai highlighted the threat of fragile supply chains, growing inequality and growing economic insecurity, the worsening climate crisis and increasing geopolitical tensions.

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The two-day ministerial meeting will be followed by the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting scheduled for Nov 15-17.