New Zealand to push for economic integration at APEC ministers meeting

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New Zealand would be pressing for greater economic cooperation and integration in the Asia- Pacific region at this week's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation ( APEC) annual meeting of finance ministers, Associate Minister of Finance Jonathan Coleman said Tuesday.

New Zealand actively engages with its regional partners, and APEC provides a crucial forum where members can discuss issues, share new ideas and build common approaches, Coleman said in a statement.

"Sustainable economic development, increased trade and investment, and economic cooperation and integration are key pillars to developing prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region," he said.

"New Zealand is well placed to benefit from that prosperity, with growing numbers of consumers wanting access to the goods and services we produce."

Coleman, who will represent New Zealand at the meeting in Bali, Indonesia, would hold bilateral meetings with his counterparts from a range of members.