The theme for this year's APEC forum is "A New Commitment to Asia-Pacific Development."

APEC member economies are expected to broaden the participation of other players in building the Asia-Pacific community. They are also expected to promote an integral approach to spurring economic development and working on other major issues that affect the region.

Speaking ahead of the forum, the Peruvian vice foreign minister said trade between China and Latin America is significantly important to the Asia-Pacific region.

Peruvian vice foreign minister Gonzalo Gutierrez said,

"Our trade with Asia, especially with China, is very important. Chinese President Hu Jintao will visit our country during the APEC Forum. This is the first time that a Chinese President will visit Peru, it's very important."

The Concluding Senior Officials Meeting will be followed by a series of other meetings including the Ministerial Meeting and the Economic Leaders' Meeting.

President Hu Jintao is expected to attend the gathering.

(CCTV November 17, 2008)