APEC Ministers to meet in Beijing on September 16-17

Singapore, 9 September, 2010 - Ministers responsible for Human Resources Development from APEC member economies will meet in Beijing next week to address issues such as unemployment and improving social safety nets to protect the vulnerable following the global financial crisis.

The 5th APEC Human Resources Development Ministerial Meeting will tackle the importance of achieving inclusive economic growth so that all sectors of society can share the benefits of free trade and investment and economic integration in the Asia Pacific region.

The meeting, to be held on September 16-17, will be chaired by China's Minister for Human Resources and Social Security, Yin Weimin, and will provide valuable input to the work of developing APEC's Growth Strategy, which will be presented to APEC Leaders meeting in Yokohama, Japan in November this year.

The Asia Pacific region is the world's engine of growth and many member economies are leading the recovery from the global financial crisis. But common concerns remain, including the need to foster job creation, improve social protection and enhance education and training. Many member economies also face long-term challenges such as ageing populations and demands for flexible and adaptable workforces.

During the two-day meeting, Minister Yin Weimin will give a key note speech at the Great Hall of the People. Ministers from member economies will also make presentations and they are expected to adopt and release a joint statement and action plan at the conclusion of the meeting.

The meeting will be attended by Ministers responsible for Human Resources Development, officials and support personnel. The ministerial will follow a meeting of APEC HRD Senior Officials in Beijing on September 15.