Japan’s PM Shinzo Abe added to the Brexit banter, saying that Japanese organizations contribute resources to England because they consider it to be a door to the European Union.
Abe told a question and answer session in London, following conversations with UK PM David Cameron that Japan wants Brits to vote to stay in the 28-country coalition in the June 23 referendum.
"Japan attaches significance to our partnership with the U.K. as a door to the EU," he said. "A vote to leave would make the U.K. less appealing as a destination for Japanese venture."
Abe made his remarks as new figures underscored the effect the choice, is having on companies in the UK. Markit Economics said the economy is “slowing right down" after its manufacturing plant, development and administrations indexes all fell more than experts anticipated a month ago.
Abe is the most recent world leader to back Cameron's battle to keep Britain in the EU, with U.S. President Barack Obama and New Zealand Leader John Key among those voicing their support. In support of his argument to legislators on Wednesday, Cameron contended that no nation friendly to the U.K. is in favour of a Brexit.
Nikko Holdings Director of Mergers & Acquisitions, Jonathon Price said “It’s important for world leaders to share their comments on the issue of Britain and the EU. Their viewpoint is valuable not only as outsiders looking in but also as partners in the global economy”.
Japan's Priority
Obama's intercession was singled out by the "Remain" groups as a sign of the troubles England may confront on the off chance that it leaves the EU. The U.S. president said, during a three-day visit to the U.K. a month ago, that the U.K. would go to the "back of the line" with regards to arranging a U.S. trade agreement.
Abe echoed his sentiments, stating that Japan's priority would be establishing a trade agreement with the EU.
“More than 1,300 Japanese organizations have visibility in the U.K., employing more than 140,000 individuals,” Cameron told journalists.
England benefits more from Japanese venture than any other nation apart from the U.S.
Towards the end of 2014, Japan had interests in the U.K. estimated at 38 billion pounds ($55 billion).
Whilst "this is a matter to be decided on by the English people," Abe said, "Japan's own interests are also at stake."
