Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said in a Financial Times interview that he would welcome UK to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership “with open arms”. Abe’s words could be used by Brexiteers to reaffirm their stance that there are more opportunities outside of the EU. On the other hand, it’s also a clear signal that Japan is sticking with the trade pact despite US withdrawal under Trump. And the preserving the TPP could be at a very high priority during the trade negotiation with the US.
On Brexit, Abe urged “that both sides can contribute their wisdom and at least avoid a so-called disorderly Brexit.” Also, he hoped that “the negative impact of Brexit to the global economy, including Japanese businesses, will be minimized.”
