Japan notified that we finished the domestic procedures after President Trump took office or at about the same time, and even though the United States has withdrawn from the TPP, I still think it's important to go for the ratification, because it will show the strong commitment of the other countries for free trade.
If the TPP were something to replace an already existing framework, there would be many discussions, but there's no framework at this stage. If the TPP does not come into force, we certainly have to create something. But elements of the TPP and the spirit of the TPP are still so vital. We hope to pursue our efforts to the end. In that sense, Japan is asking other signatories to proceed toward ratification, even after the expression of withdrawal by the United States.