Prime Minister John Key is currently in Manila, capital of the Philippines for the APEC summit.
What is APEC?
The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) is a group of Pacific Rim countries who meet together to try to improve economic and political ties. APEC’s 21 members aim to boost trade and growth in a region which accounts for 60 percent of global output and nearly half of world trade.
APEC in Manila, Philippines 2015.
This years summit comes as growth in the region slows. China’s economy is slowing while Japan is in recession.
One of the focal points of the discussions will be the TPPA (trans pacific partnership agreement)
Mr Key said there was likely to be interest from other countries, including China, in considering joining the TPP at some stage.
Security will be tight at APEC in the wake of last week’s attacks in Paris, with about 30,000 police and soldiers being deployed to protect leaders.
