From Reuters via the Washington Post (link)
Japanese Farm Minister Shoichi Nakagawa, in an apparent criticism of China, said on Friday that Japan should not seek free trade pacts with countries that cannot guarantee the safety of its citizens.
The comments by Nakagawa — who is known for his hardline views toward China and North Korea — came after the Trade Ministry unveiled a proposal this week for an “East Asia” free trade zone including southeast Asia, and countries such as China, India and Australia.
“A country that cannot guarantee the safety of Japanese civilians would not be a candidate at this point,” Nakagawa said regarding free trade agreements (FTAs).
