Japan-United States Framework Talks

A mechanism to work the problems out by two-way dialogue

Q.: One sometimes hears the criticism that the thrust of Japan-United States trade negotiations tends to run contrary to international rules, such as those set out by the WTO. What are the underlying principles guiding the Framework Talks?
A.: Japan and the United States conduct the Framework Talks with due respect for international rules, so such criticism is unwarranted. For your reference, the Talks are conducted in accordance with the following basic principles:

Two-way dialogue between both countries.
Sharing of benefits with other countries on a most-favored nation (MFN) basis equally.
The scope of the negotiations to be limited to items which governments are able to deal with and which are within government reach.
Disputes to be resolved in accordance with international rules such as the WTO Agreement.
Refrain from application of unilateral measures (such as sanctions under Section 301 of the United States Trade Act).
Managed-trade approaches such as setting numerical targets to be avoided.