Source:Xinhua Published: 2013-8-6 17:04:37
There has been no one decision finalized on the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) from the Malaysian side as there are many issues that need to be concluded, a Malaysian government official said Tuesday.
"If it impacts national interest, there is no reason to agree," International Trade and Industry Minister Mustapa Mohamed told reporters.
He said, the government will seriously consider all input by various stakeholders related to the TPP before making any decision on it.
In respect of the decision, he stressed priority should definitely be given priority to national interest and the rights of the people should not be compromised.
"The concern is whether the TPP will help the country or affect its interests. This is the basis for deciding on our action," he added.
"I received much input on the challenges related to national sovereignty, the prices of medicine and on the government-linked companies, in respect of the TPP negotiations," he said.
The TPP, a free trade initiative, involves the United States, Australia, Brunei, Malaysia, Canada, Chile, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, Vietnam and Japan.