On 20 November 1993, APEC economic leaders, hosted by U.S. President Clinton, met for the first time at Blake Island, Seattle, Washington to hold informal discussions.

Their vision was for an Asia-Pacific that harnesses the energy of its diverse economies, strengthens cooperation, and promotes prosperity, in which the spirit of openness and partnership deepens and dynamic growth continues, contributing to an expanding world economy and supporting an open international trading system. They envisioned continued reduction of trade and investment barriers so that trade expands within the region and with the world, and goods, services, capital, and investment flow freely among APEC economies. People in APEC economies would share the benefits of economic growth through higher incomes, high skilled and high paying jobs and increased mobility. Improved education and training would produce rising literacy rates, provide the skills for maintaining economic growth and encourage the sharing of ideas that contribute to the arts and sciences. Advances in telecommunications would shrink time and distance barriers in the region and link APEC economies so that goods and people move quickly and efficiently.

Finally, they envisioned an Asia-Pacific in which the environment is improved as APEC economies protect the quality of air, water, and green spaces and manage energy sources and renewable resources to ensure sustainable growth and provide a more secure future.