Prime Minister Naoto Kan attended the third Ministerial Meeting for the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP) and Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) at the Prime Minister's Office.

The meeting discussed follow-ups on the Basic Policy on Comprehensive Economic Partnerships approved by the Cabinet on November 9, 2010 and the "Opening Japan Forum" which will be held starting on February 26, 2011.

Based on the discussion, the Prime Minister said, "The reports on the status of progress indicate very proactive efforts are being undertaken in each area. At the same time, they pointed out certain concrete challenges that are complicated. Now we need to redouble our efforts to ensure further progress.
As for the Opening Japan Forum, which is to be held nine times all across the country, I ask that efforts are made to listen to peoples' opinions on the economic partnerships, including revitalization of the agricultural industry, and to offer our explanations."