The APEC 2026 summit will be held in Shenzhen, and this decision, in addition to being a diplomatic announcement, was a gesture that carried important symbolism about the current moment China is experiencing, as well as the role it wishes to play in the region. At the event, President Xi Jinping’s speech highlighted that the country wishes to have an even more connected posture with the world. Shenzhen is a city that emerged from a fishing village and now aspires to be a global center of innovation, an ideal showcase for APEC.
How does China intend to transform Shenzhen into a symbol of transformation?
Within China’s modern narrative, Shenzhen occupies a special place. Just a few decades ago, the city was a simple coastal village, without much economic relevance or international projection for the country. But, after its accelerated transformation, driven by the Chinese government’s policies of openness and innovation, it has become a living example of how sustainable development can be successful.
China’s choice to host the APEC summit in Shenzhen reinforces the importance of progress. The city’s strategic location on the Pacific coast, near Hong Kong, led Xi Jinping to highlight its role as a gateway between China and the world. For him, choosing Shenzhen as the stage for an important political summit was a way to reaffirm the country’s commitment to openness, cooperation, and an integrated regional vision.
Furthermore, this decision is also a way to send a message internally to the country that the government wants to show the results of the reforms. The presence of global leaders in Shenzhen allows China to present its own trajectory as an example of transformation, so that other countries in the region can observe and learn regarding connectivity, the digital economy, and innovation.
APEC 2026 and the Vision of a Pacific Community
Xi Jinping emphasized that APEC is one of the most important means for economic cooperation among Pacific countries. This shows that the bloc has not only diplomatic value, but also a desire to build a more integrated community. According to Xi Jinping’s speech, China intends to use the 2026 meeting to promote issues related to connectivity, AI, digitalization, and advancements associated with the FTAAP.
These topics are not isolated goals, but part of a path the country wishes to follow alongside its neighboring countries in the region. China intends to endorse practical projects, strengthen collaboration between nations, and promote an environment conducive to the joint growth of the entire region.
Shenzhen as a Diplomatic Stage
Shenzhen represents a breakthrough in Chinese history, and Xi Jinping uses the city as a narrative for his diplomacy; and this is no coincidence. By projecting Shenzhen as a model of modernity and political, economic, and cultural openness, China makes it clear that its development is not closed and can be mutually beneficial.
What is the symbolic role of China in hosting APEC?
This is the third time China has hosted APEC, reinforcing its desire to be a regional leader. It is evident that the country sees this opportunity as a way to contribute to the development of all Pacific nations, offering vitality, stability, and impetus to discussions. The meeting, beyond being a formal event, is a chance to reaffirm leadership and commitment.
The fact that APEC 2026 is being held in Shenzhen is a symbolic moment for China. The city has come to symbolize the country’s progress, its integration into the global economy, and its commitment to the region’s technological future. By bringing together world leaders in China’s main innovation hub in the coming years, the country wants to demonstrate that its growth is aligned with cooperation and openness.
