APEC shores up hope

The formal dress worn by the leaders that attended the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum has been widely perceived as a show of solidarity in the face of the current global economic and financial difficulties.

The message from the APEC economic leaders' meeting, which was concluded in Vladivostok on Sunday, is equally encouraging.

In a declaration issued at the end of the two-day meeting, Pacific Rim leaders vowed to strengthen the region's prosperity and leadership in the global economy. They said they would push for trade and investment liberalization, establish reliable supply chains and foster innovation. These plans will have far-reaching effects on the development of the region and places beyond.