LIMA, Peru (AP) — After two days of meetings in Lima that rarely ventured beyond platitudes about the strategies and collaborations of the region’s major economies, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum concluded on Saturday. The atmosphere was marked by a fragile spirit of detente that many observers express concerns may not be replicated for another four years, especially given the current geopolitical climate.
The 21 leaders representing economies bordering the Pacific, including prominent figures such as U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, gathered in Peru for this annual summit during a turbulent period. This gathering occurred as America’s soon-to-be President Donald Trump has firmly pledged to withdraw the United States from its historically significant role in championing a global free trade agenda.
Few could disregard the symbolism of Biden’s late arrival on Saturday for the traditional APEC family photo, creating an unspoken political metaphor as he was noticeably absent while other leaders arranged to pose onstage. The leaders shared a moment of awkward laughter when they realized Biden was missing.
They tittered for five uncomfortable minutes before a seemingly distracted Biden finally emerged to take his position at the far back corner of the stage. He found himself wedged between Thailand’s youthful Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Vietnam’s President Luong Cuong, briefly reaching out to Shinawatra for support as he steadied himself.
Chinese President Xi secured a prime location at the event, taking the front and center position beside the host, Peruvian President Dina Boluarte. Throughout the summit, Xi embraced the banner of globalization, showcasing an ambitious $1.3 billion megaport project in Peru, which is set to become the largest shipping hub in South America. His speeches eloquently rejected the growing tide of protectionism.
In Xi’s summit address, delivered by one of his ministers, the Chinese leader compellingly urged APEC members to “tear down the walls impeding the flow of trade” and criticized the tariffs threatened by Trump on Chinese imports, labeling such actions as a regressive step “going back in history.”
For the annual photo-op, leaders sported wool scarves in earthy hues, a distinctive representation of Peru’s culture — consistent with APEC’s tradition of showcasing the host country’s attire. Although conference organizers typically arrange leaders in alphabetical order for this symbolic photo, over the years, this arrangement has varied depending on circumstances.
Reporters eagerly shouted questions as Biden exited the stage on Friday, probing about his sentiments regarding this being his final APEC summit — and one of his last major global events during his presidency. Biden had envisioned that APEC, paired with the forthcoming Group of 20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, would mark a triumphant conclusion to his long political career, filled with impactful diplomacy and declarations of America’s influence on the international stage.
However, following his party’s significant defeat in the recent U.S. election and the uncertain path of U.S.-China relations, there was little meaningful progress to be made in Lima. Biden aimed to solidify crucial alliances that could potentially be unsettled by the looming Trump administration. He conveyed his concerns to the leaders of South Korea and Japan regarding what he described as “dangerous and destabilizing cooperation” between North Korea and Russia.
After nearly four years of remarkable stability in the Japan-U.S. alliance — an essential partnership pivotal for regional security — Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is now navigating the complexities of arranging a crucial meeting with Trump. He disclosed to reporters in Lima on Saturday that the anticipated meeting with Trump, which he hoped to arrange on his return from the upcoming G-20 summit in Brazil, would regrettably not take place. He attributed this setback to Trump’s team invoking U.S. legal restrictions to deny his requests.
“We are considering holding a meeting as soon as possible at a time that is most convenient for both sides,” Ishiba remarked, emphasizing his commitment to proactive diplomacy. For the first time in a year, later on Saturday, Biden and Xi convened for their highly anticipated third and final meeting of Biden’s presidency. Xi articulated to Biden that China was “ready to work with a new administration to maintain communication.”
Biden also embraced a conciliatory tone in their discussions, underscoring that such face-to-face engagements were vital to “ensure that competition between our two countries will not veer into conflict.”
How does Dr. Gonzales assess the significance of Xi Jinping’s push for globalization in the context of rising protectionism among global economies?
**Interview with Dr. Maria Gonzales, Political Economist and APEC Expert**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. Gonzales. After the recent APEC summit in Lima, there’s a lot to unpack regarding the implications for global trade and diplomacy. Was there anything significant that stood out to you during the discussions or interactions at the summit?
**Dr. Gonzales:** Thank you for having me. Yes, the mood at this year’s APEC summit was quite notable, characterized by a delicate balance of cooperation and underlying tension. While there were expressions of hope for collaboration, one cannot ignore the evident hesitance in the face of escalating geopolitical rivalries, particularly between the U.S. and China.
**Editor:** Speaking of the U.S. and China, President Biden’s late arrival for the family photo took many by surprise. What do you think that signifies in terms of U.S. leadership on the global stage?
**Dr. Gonzales:** Biden’s tardiness was symbolic in many ways. His absence during a key moment and subsequent hesitant positioning in the group photo contrasted sharply with Xi Jinping’s commanding presence front and center. It highlights the shifting dynamics of power—the U.S. appears to be grappling with its strategy towards engagement in a rapidly changing world, especially as we approach the uncertain leadership of President Trump.
**Editor:** Speaking of President Xi, he made some strong remarks against protectionism and emphasized globalization. How significant is Xi’s push for globalization at a time when many economies are leaning towards more protectionist policies?
**Dr. Gonzales:** Xi’s strong advocacy for globalization is indeed significant. His comments resonate with many developing economies that stand to benefit from open trade. By promoting projects like the $1.3 billion megaport in Peru, he’s positioning China as a leader in trade facilitation. This could create opportunities for Latin America while countering the protectionist stance that Trump seems to be paving with tariffs.
**Editor:** APEC’s tradition of showcasing the host country’s culture through attire, like the wool scarves worn by leaders, is always an interesting element of the summit. Do you think these symbolic gestures contribute to diplomatic relations?
**Dr. Gonzales:** Absolutely. Such traditions foster a sense of shared identity and cultural appreciation among leaders, which can ease tensions. However, while wearing local attire can help create a moment of unity, the real test lies beyond the photo-ops—in actionable cooperation. This year’s scarves were a nice touch, but substantive agreements and genuine collaborations will be what ultimately matters moving forward.
**Editor:** as APEC concludes, what are your expectations for the future of this forum, especially considering the geopolitical climate?
**Dr. Gonzales:** The future of APEC hinges on the ability of its member states to find common ground amid rising tensions. With leaders like Xi pushing for open trade at odds with the more isolationist approach from the U.S., the forum may struggle to maintain its relevance. If APEC can adapt and emphasize mutual economic benefits while addressing each country’s concerns, it could still play a vital role. However, without a collective commitment, we may see a waning influence over the next few years.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Gonzales, for your insights. This certainly gives us a deeper understanding of the complexities at play in the Asia-Pacific region.
**Dr. Gonzales:** Thank you! It’s been a pleasure discussing this with you.