Japan, Bulgaria agree to seek Japan-EU EPA’s early effectuation

January 15, 2018

Sofia- Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and his Bulgarian counterpart, Boyko Borisov, agreed in Sofia on Sunday to cooperate for an early signing and entry into force of an economic partnership agreement reached by Japan and the European Union last year.

During their talks in the capital of Bulgaria, which chairs the EU in the first half of 2018, Abe and Borisov both underscored the importance of Japan and the EU holding the flag of free trade high, according to officials having access to the meeting.

The two leaders also agreed to set up a forum of Japanese companies active in Bulgaria and officials of the Japanese and Bulgarian governments to further promote Japanese investment in the Eastern European country.

Abe and Borisov shared the view that it is necessary to put greater pressure on North Korea to end the reclusive nation's missile and nuclear development.

But at the same time, the Bulgarian prime minister gave weight to efforts to bring Pyongyang back to the negotiation table for a peaceful resolution of the issue.

Abe introduced Japan's initiative to contribute to stability of the Western Balkan region at a time when Bulgaria, as EU chair, is endeavoring to help Serbia and other former Yugoslavian states become members of the EU.

Borisov appreciated the cooperation proposal. Jiji Press