Request for Cooperation for Conclusion of RCEP Japan-India Ministerial Meeting December 10 19:28
Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Mr. Ulsan, visiting India, met with the Indian government ministers one after another, calling for India to negotiate on RCEP = Comprehensive Economic Partnership in East Asia and to work together for a conclusion.
The Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Ulsan, visiting New Delhi, the capital of India, met with Pradan Oil, Natural Gas and Steel Minister on the afternoon of 10th Japan time.
In this, Mr. Hatakeyama said, “I would like to exchange opinions on RCEP in addition to strengthening relations in steel and energy.”
Regarding RCEP, India also suggests that it will withdraw from negotiations against the backdrop of domestic opposition.
Some participating countries have expressed the opinion that they should proceed with a framework of 15 countries excluding India.
Mr. Hatakeyama subsequently met with Goyal Minister of Commerce and Industry in charge of RCEP, and it seems that he asked for cooperation to remain in negotiations for a signature next year.
Prime Minister Abe will visit India from 15th of this month to meet with Prime Minister Modi, focusing on how the Indian side will respond to Japan's requests.