One Community, Our Future - Chile's Vision for APEC 2004

Working together to further develop the Asia-Pacific community and sharing the benefits of being part of the most economically dynamic region of the world is the main goal of APEC Chile 2004. The APEC 2004 theme, "One Community, Our Future", was announced in Viña del Mar, Chile in December 2003.

The APEC 2004 theme, combined with direction provided by APEC Economic Leaders will guide APEC's activities throughout 2004. Under the central theme, "One Community, Our Future" are the following sub-themes:

Economic integration is crucial for the future prosperity of the APEC Region. In 2004, APEC will continue to work to create a trading system which is fair and transparent for both industrialised and developing economies. Issues affecting negotiations at the multilateral level will be addressed, including trade trends such as the proliferation of preferential trade agreements. Only by pursuing this inclusive approach will APEC be successful in accomplishing its overall free trade and investment goals.

APEC recognises that diversity is its most powerful asset. Safeguarding this asset by protecting the people and economies of the region from terrorism is crucial to economic growth. In 2004, APEC will continue to protect itself without putting the efficiency of trade flows at risk. APEC members will continue to share information and develop capacities that will enable the region to achieve sustainable economic prosperity.

Education is a strategic tool for enabling all people to benefit from the opportunities of globalisation. During 2004, APEC will explore ways to enable the people of the region to gain broader access to the Internet. Internet access is essential to building inclusive, equitable development in the Asia-Pacific region. Improving access to the Internet and language training will increase access to global markets for small and medium enterprises, which account for more than 80% of all enterprises in the Asia Pacific region.

Knowledge is the fundamental driver of economic development, prosperity and integration. APEC Member Economies will continue to work together in 2004 to develop capacities in specific areas such as information technology, biotechnology and sustainable development, to open new horizons for the APEC community. APEC aims to promote long-term, sustainable economic growth and employment by developing these sectors.

Bridging differences and developing collective strength through mutual recognition and deeper understanding of the diverse cultures and peoples of the Asia-Pacific region is an important APEC goal in 2004. APEC embodies diversity itself, bringing together cultures and people from all around the Pacific Rim with the shared aim of a prosperous future. Developing strength from this diversity will be a key APEC focus in 2004.