(Yomiuri: December 10, 2015 – p. 11)

 TPP Minister Akira Amari gave a speech at a U.S.-Japan Research Institute symposium co-sponsored by Yomiuri Shimbun, “Building a New ‘Economic and Financial Order’ in the Asia-Pacific Region,” in Tokyo on Dec. 9. He discussed the basic TPP agreement reached in October and said that “Japan will serve as a hub for attracting investment and technology from overseas,” indicating Japan’s intent to serve as the driving force for regional economic growth after the TPP accord takes effect.

 Acting Deputy USTR Wendy Cutler also spoke at the symposium. She said: “The TPP’s benefits are powerful and evident. This agreement must not be shelved until the next administration.” She indicated that Congress will be able to ratify the agreement in 2016.