Jaroslav Paška (EFD). – (SK) I am aware that Japan, despite its technological and economic maturity, is not very welcoming when it comes to opening up its own trading area. It is nevertheless essential on our part to continue to make efforts to expand bilateral trade agreements, especially with economically advanced countries, where trade is of advantage to both contracting parties.

I am convinced that a balanced free trade agreement can bring economic profit both for our producers and for the Japanese side. I therefore welcome the agreement reached on the content of the open negotiations and it is to be hoped that the Japanese side will also be interested in achieving progress in resolving sensitive questions such as regulatory obstacles in the automobile industry or rail transport. Our position should be clear. The European Union, like Japan, needs new and effective initiatives to support its economy and well organised, open trade relations are the best way forward.