Bantay JPEPA
Bantay JPEPA
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RP-Japan committee on JPEPA convenes June 15, 2009, 7:40pm Manila Bulletin The first meeting of the Japanese-Philippine s sub-committee on the Improvement of the Business Environment of the Japan Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) convened Monday in preparation for the state visit of President Gloria Arroyo to Japan late this week where the full implementation of the bilateral free trade deal is expected to be take centerstage in the discussion. Philippine Trade and Industry Secretary Peter B. Favila and Ambassador Makoto Katsura of Japan chaired the meeting. The convening of the committee was in time for Arroyo’s state visit to Japan on June 17-22. Under Article 139 or the Improvement of Business Environment of JPEPA, both parties will form a sub-committee to supervise and facilitate the favorable environment necessary for business and investment activities. A sketchy joint release following the meeting said that a number of issues were raised, including those related to infrastructure, border measures as well as operation of the treaty itself. The JPEPA entered into force on December 11, 2008. The Sub-Committee on Improving Business Environment, which is one of the sub-committees formed under the JPEPA, is considered as one of the most important pillars in the treaty to foster enhanced economic interactions between Japan and the Philippines. In order to further deepen the works on the issues and to find ways for solutions, it was agreed to convene Consultative Groups, which were also established under JPEPA, in early July. (BCM) |
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