The 18th Policy Plenary Meeting was held
on November 7, 2006 under the theme of "Japan's Economic
Strategy towards East Asian Regional Integration," in the
Conference Room of the Japan Form on International Relations.
The report was given by Mr. TOYODA Masakazu, Director-General
of the International Trade Bureau, Ministry of Economy, Trade
and Industry.
Regarding the recent developments of
economic integration in East Asia, Mr. TOYODA stated that "East
Asia is the world's largest market growing at the fastest rate,
and it is essential that the ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Economical
Partnership (AJCEP) Agreement be concluded as speedily as possible
in order to prevent Japanese companies from falling into a disadvantageous
position in the region. As for the 'Concept of East Asia EPA,'
South Korea and China are showing cautious attitude, but we
are aiming to establish so-called East Asian version of OECD,
'Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA)'
in spring 2007. The conclusion of the US-South Korea EPA is
expected in the near future, and along with it, EPA in Asia
and Pacific will make more progress. However, it is important
that WTO negotiations develop simultaneously."
In response to the report, the present
25 participants made keen queries regarding Japan's agricultural
policy and the Bogor Declaration of APEC.
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