Japan's top trade negotiator vows not to sacrifice farming in Japan-US talks
At a news conference on Tuesday, Economic Revitalization Minister Akazawa Ryosei was asked about a social media post by US President Donald Trump.
The post in question read that Japan "won't take our RICE, and yet they have a massive rice shortage."
Akazawa said agriculture forms the foundation of the nation.
He said it is an extremely important task for the government and the ruling coalition to create an environment where farmers feel secure and can continue their work.
He said both Japanese and US teams have continued sincere discussions toward a potential deal, but still remain at odds on some points and are yet to reach an agreement as a package.
Akazawa said he hopes to work vigorously toward a deal that is beneficial to both sides, while protecting Japan's interests.
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