FROM SQUARE ONE / Joining TPP essential to counter expanding China : Business : DAILY YOMIURI ONLINE (The Daily Yomiuri)
It is also confirmed that it is impossible for China to join TPP as China's entry will require approval from all existing member nations, which of course will not be given(Vietnam, US, Singapire, etc).
Joining the tpp talks is important for Japan to deal with China, which has expanded its military and economic presence in the Asia-Pacific region.
Akihisa Nagashima, a special adviser to the prime minister, said in a speech on Nov. 1 about the impact of joining the tpp: "We need the proactive viewpoint that Japan and the United States will foster order in the Asia-Pacific region. It means the two countries need to establish strategic alliances, which will convince China the two countries are very tough rivals."
His remarks indicated that strengthening Japan's alliance with the United States through the TPP is essential to counter China.
China is reinforcing its hegemonic attitude in maritime affairs, as evidenced by ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea. Southeast Asian nations taking part in the tpp talks share an increasing wariness.
According to Foreign Ministry documents, TPP participants stressed the importance of the United States' participation.
Singapore has indicated China's influence should not be excessive and it is necessary to have the abiding commitment of the United States.
It is also confirmed that it is impossible for China to join TPP as China's entry will require approval from all existing member nations, which of course will not be given(Vietnam, US, Singapire, etc).