Japan's recent conclusion of free-trade talks with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations signals Tokyo's continued engagement with the region, four journalists from ASEAN member states told a recent symposium in the capital.
However, some also expressed frustration over the slow progress in the opening of Japan's agricultural market — an issue that continues to overshadow Tokyo's trade talks with other potential partners.
The four journalists, from Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia, were taking part in the Dec. 13 symposium organized by Keizai Koho Center under the theme "Toward a new framework in East Asia."
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