Leaders of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum?pledged in Honolulu on?Sunday that they are committed to building a seamless regional economy through joint efforts.?

"In APEC this year, we have committed to taking concrete steps toward a seamless regional economy, in order to link our economies and markets ever closer together, to the benefit of all," said "The Honolulu Declaration -- Toward a Seamless Regional Economy," which was posted on APEC's official website.

"But our work toward a truly seamless regional economy is only in the beginning stages," the Declaration said.

"We meet at a time of uncertainty for the global economy. Growth and job creation have weakened in many economies, and significant downside risks remain, including those arising from the financial challenges in Europe and a succession of natural disasters in our region.

These challenges have only strengthened our commitment to cooperation as the way forward. Building on the Yokohama Vision, we firmly resolve to support the strong, sustained, and balanced growth of the regional and global economy."

We recognize that further trade liberalization is essential to achieving a sustainable global recovery in the aftermath of the global recession of 2008-2009."

As our economies and others continue to address evolving challenges and opportunities, it will be important for the WTO to contribute, with development as a continuing priority."

The APEC leaders also reaffirmed?their pledge against protectionism through a standstill and extend their commitment through the end of 2015.

APEC leaders agreed that?the core missionof the organization?continues to be further integration of the economies and expansion of trade APEC member states.

"We come together in APEC to pursue these goals, recognizing that trade and investment are critical to job creation and greater economic prosperity for all our economies," the Declaration said.

"We further recognize that strengthening regional economic integration also plays a key role in promoting regional peace and stability."