Despite the lackluster global economic recovery, the Asia-Pacific has remained the world's most economically dynamic region and the main engine of global growth.

However, the world is undergoing major developments, transformation and adjustment, and the Asia-Pacific is no exception. It too faces challenges and destabilizing factors, as well as opportunities.

That is why Saturday's pledge by the leaders of the 21 economies in the Asia-Pacific to promote innovative and inclusive growth and jointly foster a shared future for the region is both welcome and uplifting.