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APEC members pass declaration to promote SMEs

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-08-30 10:57

LIMA -- Ministers and officials from the 21-member Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) signed a joint declaration Friday on promoting the development of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

"The ministers agreed to improve enterprise environments as well as policies and regulations to promote the establishment, growth and development of the micro, small- and medium-sized enterprises," said Peruvian Production Minister Rafael Ray.

The APEC countries emphasized the importance of promoting the SMEs growth as part of their sustainable economic development, Rey said.

"Other issues were also discussed during the meeting like the development of the SMEs and poverty reduction within the local communities, including sustainable environment initiatives, innovation management, public-private participation and regional economic integration," the minister said.

APEC concluded its 15th SME Ministerial Meeting on Friday in Peru's Chiclayo, 750 km northeast of the capital city, Lima.

Chiclayo's meeting was a preparatory session for APEC leaders' smmit on November 16-23 in Lima.