LOC19:22
16:22 GMT
TOKYO, Jan 31 (KUNA) -- Japanese Economic and Fiscal Policy Minister Akira
Amari said Friday that the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) countries are
likely to hold the next ministerial talks late February, calling it a crucial
meeting.
"There is no confirmation yet, but we are in preparation for holding the
next gathering later in February. The upcoming meeting is very important, as
it will be held before US midterm congressional elections in November," Amari,
who is also the minister in charge of the TPP free trade talks, told a press
conference.
The nations taking part in the US-led TPP talks are Australia, Brunei,
Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, the US
and Vietnam.
"All TPP countries should have strong determination to conclude the
negotiations, instead of considering it as another stage in the process,"
Amari stressed.
US President Barack Obama's administration aims to get Congressional
approval for the TPP agreement before the midterm elections, which are
expected to preoccupy the country's politicians.
The 12 countries have not reached an agreement, due to strong discord on
such issues as tariff rules, intellectual property rights and reform of
government-owned companies. (end)
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KUNA 311922 Jan 14NNNN