With the world economy on a rocky road toward recovery, expectations are running high about the forthcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting, which is to be held this weekend in Vladivostok.

Many hope that when leaders from APEC economies gather to discuss the region's future prosperity, they will send signals that help to inspire confidence in development. Keeping in mind the event's theme, "integrate to grow, innovate to prosper", those in attendance will discuss issues that threaten to be the source of economic and social risks in the region.

The likely topics include proposals to liberalize trade and investment and integrate the regional economy, as well as food security, supply chains and innovation. APEC member economies are expected to endorse a joint statement embracing integration, innovation and common prosperity.