Chairman Kokubu’s Comments on the UK’s Signing of the CPTPP and the Entry into Force of the CPTPP for Brunei

July 18, 2023

I strongly welcome the news that on July 16, the United Kingdom signed the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). The UK is a global strategic partner for Japan, as well as an important trade and investment partner. The Japanese government is to be commended for its leadership in talks with the UK since the commencement of the accession process in 2021.

I also welcome the news that on July 12, Brunei, an important partner for Japan, officially became the 11th party of the CPTPP, meaning that the agreement has now taken effect in all 11 original countries. Brunei and Japan have built an excellent bilateral relationship over the decades, including in the area of energy cooperation. Next year the two countries will celebrate the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.

As Russia’s invasion of Ukraine drags on, the relatively stable post-Cold War era is coming to an end. At this historic turning point, upholding a free, open international order based on the rule of law is more crucial than ever.

The UK’s accession is of the greatest significance in that it marks the CPTPP’s expansion beyond the Pacific Rim as more countries come to share a commitment to universal values such as free trade within the CPTPP framework. It is also significant in that it establishes a suitable model for future accession talks.

I hope that the Japanese government will, as a champion of free trade, continue to show leadership in strengthening and expanding the free, fair, rules-based multilateral trading system. I would also encourage it to continue persistently lobbying for the return of the United States to the CPTPP.