British trade chief eager for free trade pact with Japan

September 20, 2019

Tokyo--Visiting British International Trade Secretary Liz Truss on Friday signaled the country's eagerness to conclude a free trade agreement with Japan.

At a meeting with Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, Truss said that the British government has launched a public call for input about the idea of the country concluding an FTA with Japan after its planned exit from the European Union.

Truss said she is hopeful that Japan and Britain would have stronger economic ties.

She also expressed interest in Britain joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, or TPP11, a free trade deal among Japan and other countries, which entered into force late last year.

"Britain is the entryway to Europe for Japanese corporations," Motegi said. "We hope it is an attractive site for investment." Jiji Press