In his opening speech, US President Barack Obama praised the determination of the negotiating countries to complete TPP talks within 5 years. He said that this demonstrated the shared vision among the 12 countries, helping to determine trade regulations in the Asia-Pacific region in decades ahead. President Truong Tan Sang said the completion of TPP negotiations would create new momentum for regional growth and connectivity, promoting peace, co-operation, and sustainable growth in the region.
However, he said that the implementation of the TPP would pose formidable challenges, particularly for developing nations. He asked member countries to strengthen co-ordination and mutual support to ensure the TPP’s early signing, ratification by member nation parliaments, and implementation. The leaders approved a joint statement to express their determination to bring the TPP into effect quickly.
