Chief Executive John Lee will depart for South Korea tomorrow to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting and related activities.

In the coastal city of Gyeongju, Mr Lee will join the APEC Economic Leaders’ Retreat, due to be held on November 1.

On October 31, he will participate in the APEC Economic Leaders’ Informal Dialogue with Guests, the APEC Business Advisory Council Dialogue with APEC Economic Leaders, and a Gala Dinner hosted by the organiser for participating leaders. He will also hold bilateral meetings with leaders of the other economies in attendance to exchange views on issues of mutual interest.

Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau will attend the APEC Ministerial Meeting on October 30.

This year, APEC has chosen the theme “Building a Sustainable Tomorrow”, with discussions focusing on the words “connect”, “innovate” and “prosper”.

The Chief Executive said: “APEC member economies are Hong Kong’s important trading partners, accounting for approximately 80% of Hong Kong’s external trade. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will continue to actively participate in APEC-related matters to contribute to and promote regional economic integration and development.”

Mr Lee will return to Hong Kong on November 2. During his absence, Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki will be Acting Chief Executive.