Two options available to reach consensus — Mustapa
Meanwhile, Mustapa said there were two approaches that could be taken to reach a consensus on the TPP11, firstly by adopting the existing TPP agreement and making some suspensions or secondly, by overhauling and revising the trade pact.
“The approach taken now is that we accept the agreement but we want to make some exceptions on some provisions. We hope what we had concluded in New Zealand will be adopted.
“In general, we do not want to negotiate again, we feel it is better using the temporary suspension method, that is, s ome provisions in the agreement are temporarily suspended,” he said.
Malaysia has also submitted several lists for the provision of suspension.
“We have explained why we had asked for certain suspension, convincing them and try to at least narrow the gap with other countries. Each country has their own unique position,” he said
He said there was progress in the discussion, but there was still some gaps.
“This is why we’re meeting again today. The intention before coming here is to agree. We knew it is going to be difficult.
“My hunch is we have to bring up to the leaders and seek their guidance. Some decisions are really difficult,” he added. Mustapa said all the 11 TPP member countries were committed to agree on the trade deal as they could see the value in the agreement and it was a game changer. — Bernama