*Updated November 29, 2011*

National

Japan and the Trans-Pacific Partnership

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda recently announced that Japan would start talks with member countries on participating in the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). TPP is regarded by many as the best route to a Free Trade Area of the Asia Pacific, a goal for many in the region since 1993.

On December 2, the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies at Brookings and the Sasakawa Peace Foundation USA will host a conference that will examine Japan’s potential entry into the TPP, addressing the opportunities and pitfalls the trade pact may present for its economic future and that of the region. Leading experts will provide diverse perspectives on recent developments and future prospects, as well as the state of the debate within Japan, the United States and other current members of TPP.

More information is available at Brookings Institution/Events

Regional

Japan's Foreign Minister's Commendation Awarded to Dr. Kinji Tanaka

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan announced on July 25, 2011 that Dr. Kinji Tanaka, President of the Japan Research Center of Greater Cincinnati has been awarded the Foreign Minister's Commendation. This honor is conferred on individuals and groups, each year, for outstanding efforts and valuable contributions to mutual understanding and friendly relations with Japan. This year, Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs decided to award this prestigious Commendation to only 68 individuals and 30 organizations worldwide."

Article Link Coming Soon

Toyota Donation - "100 Cars for Good"

Toyota donates vehicles to worthy non-profit organizations throughout the U.S. through their "100 Cars for Good" program.  Angels Rest received a mini-van that will be used to transport animals to the shelter.  Thank you Toyota!

Popular Toyota sedan tops list for third consecutive year 

CHICAGO, June 27, 2011 
"Cars.com announced today that the Toyota Camry once again took the top spot in the site's annual American Made Index.  This is the third consecutive year the Camry has held this position, despite many newcomers to the list including the Ford Explorer, the Chevrolet Traverse and the GMC Acadia.  The Camry, which is assembled in Georgetown, Ky. and Lafayette, Ind., is followed by the Honda Accord and the Chevy Malibu, which rank No. 2 and No. 3 respectively. "
http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/camry-most-american-car-according-to-carscom-study-124581948.html 

International News

Earthquake/Tsunami

"APEC opens to discuss disaster preparedness" Aug. 2, 2011

"The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum has opened a 2-day conference in Sendai to discuss private-sector preparedness for natural disasters."

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/02_29.html

"Govt sets new criteria for contaminated fertilizer" Aug. 2, 2011

"Japan's government has laid down a new set of criteria for the use of fertilizers that may be contaminated with radioactive cesium."

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/02_22.html

Business

"Yen Overvalued by the markets, Noda warns" Aug. 2, 2011

"Currency markets have overvalued the yen, Finance Minister Yoshihiko Noda warned Tuesday, while declining comment on possible intervention to weaken the currency and protect domestic industries."

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110802x2.html

"Japan-India tariffs die as FTA kicks in" Aug. 2, 2011

"A free-trade agreement between Japan and India entered into force Monday, ending tariffs on goods that account for 94 percent of their trade flow over 10 years."

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nb20110802a2.html