BEIJING — President Xi Jinping called on APEC members to strengthen solidarity and cooperation to overcome the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and boost global economic recovery.

Xi made the remarks on July 16 while addressing the Informal Economic Leaders' Retreat of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) via video link.

"For member economies of the Asia-Pacific, defeating COVID-19 and restoring growth at an early date are our top priority for the time being," he said.

President Xi Jinping addresses the Informal Economic Leaders' Retreat of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) via video link in Beijing, capital of China, July 16, 2021. [Photo/Xinhua]

Xi made a four-pronged proposal for Asia-Pacific cooperation, including strengthening international cooperation on COVID-19 response, deepening regional economic integration, pursuing inclusive and sustainable development, and seizing opportunities from scientific and technological innovation.

China will build a new system of open economy of higher standards, create a more attractive business environment, and advance high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, he said, expressing the hope to work with countries in the Asia-Pacific and beyond to achieve higher-standard mutual benefit and win-win cooperation.