Group 1 - The core viewpoint emphasizes the significance of advancing the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP) amidst the current geopolitical landscape, particularly as China prepares to host APEC in 2026 [1][2] - Kishore Mahbubani highlights that the ongoing push for free trade agreements in East Asia lays a crucial foundation for the FTAAP, especially in light of the U.S. retreat from international trade agreements [1] - The potential inclusion of India in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is seen as a way to enhance regional cooperation and elevate the FTAAP's prospects [1] Group 2 - The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) has come into full effect, covering 15 countries with a total population of 2.3 billion and a GDP of $26 trillion, representing 30% of the global economy, making it the largest free trade area [2] - The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) is another significant trade agreement in the Asia-Pacific, involving 12 countries and setting high standards that can serve as a reference for the FTAAP [2] - Mahbubani asserts that the synergy between RCEP and CPTPP will facilitate the transition of FTAAP from a vision to a practical reality, with China's leadership role in APEC expected to inject new momentum into this process [2]

Core Points - The APEC informal leaders' meeting will be held in South Korea, with expectations for China to successfully host the next meeting in 2026, contributing to the APEC Vision 2040 [1][2] - The rise of protectionism and unilateralism poses significant challenges to global trade, making APEC a crucial platform for open dialogue among member economies [1] - Cooperation remains the central focus despite uncertainties in trade, with an emphasis on unexpected collaborations rather than divisions [1] - Discussions on tariffs and trade protectionism have been candid, with a broader focus on achieving high-quality growth through productivity and inclusive market structures [1] - China is recognized for its role in APEC, having previously hosted meetings and proposed initiatives like the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP) [2] Summary by Sections APEC Meeting and China's Role - The upcoming APEC meeting in South Korea is significant, with China set to host the next informal leaders' meeting in 2026, building on past experiences [1][2] - The APEC Vision 2040 aims to create an open, vibrant, resilient, and peaceful Asia-Pacific community by 2040 [2] Trade and Economic Cooperation - The current global trade environment is challenged by protectionism, but APEC provides a platform for honest discussions about trade policies and expectations [1] - The focus is not solely on tariffs but also on fostering high-quality growth through enhanced productivity and service-driven economies [1] Regional Trade Agreements - Various regional trade agreements, such as CPTPP and RCEP, are viewed as pathways towards achieving the FTAAP, with efforts to promote understanding among member economies [2]