[Asahi Shimbun, Japan] Hello, Premier. My question is, the world economy is suffering a severe blow due to the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. China has managed to control the epidemic. Does China have plans to carry out economic cooperation with neighboring countries including Japan? How does China plan to advance the China-Japan-ROK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and the establishment of a free trade system? Does China intend to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP)?
[Li Keqiang] At last year’s East Asian leaders’ meetings on cooperation, the 15 participating countries jointly pledged to sign the RCEP within this year as scheduled. I hope and believe this commitment will be honored. We are also advancing the building of a China-Japan-ROK free trade zone. As neighbors, the three countries may create a “small circulation” in the context of the “greater circulation” of the global economy. For example, China and the ROK have recently established a fast-track arrangement to facilitate the entry of business and technical personnel. This is conducive to the resumption of work and production and shows that a water-front pavilion gets the moonlight first—the advantage of being in a favorable position.
As for the TPP you mentioned earlier, I understand it likely refers to the "Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership" (CPTPP). China maintains a positive and open attitude toward joining the CPTPP. Thank you.