As the COVID-19 pandemic is still raging globally, Xi called for joint efforts to advance antivirus cooperation and promote economic recovery in the region.

"We need to follow a science-based approach in pandemic response, deepen international cooperation, promote the research, development, production and fair distribution of vaccines, ensure their accessibility and affordability in developing countries, and close the immunization gap," he said.

China has announced that it will provide a total of 2 billion doses of vaccines to the world this year, and has so far provided over 1.7 billion doses, including donations to more than 110 countries, according to the Chinese president. It has also undertaken to offer $3 billion over the next three years to support COVID-19 response and economic and social recovery in developing countries.

China welcomes APEC initiatives to facilitate the movement of essential goods and people in a safe manner, and will continue to provide support to the Sub-Fund for APEC Cooperation on Combating COVID-19 and Economic Recovery with a view to helping member economies recover and grow their economy, Xi said.