Obama's Absence Won't Hamper Progress Of APEC Meeting

Nusa Dua, bali province, Oct 4 (Antara) - The absence of US President Barack Obama at the APEC leaders meeting in Bali from October 7 to 8 will not hamper negotiations among member economies, said Indonesian Trade Minister Gita Wirjawan on Friday. President Barack Obama cancelled his trip to Bali due to domestic issues; there has been a shutdown of all government activities in the United States as a result of the US Congress� failure to pass funds to finance government operations. "His absence is regretted but understandable. However, the show must go on. We believe all ministers and leaders of member economies can conclude the negotiation with substantial results at the end of the meeting," said the minister. Sharing Gita`s point of view, Indonesian Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Mari Elka Pangestu said senior officials and ministers from APEC member economies have agreed on various issues and Obama`s absence is not likely to hamper negotiations. "We have agreed on various issues and the APEC leaders meeting is expected to officially announce the agreements," she added.