Japan and Russia agree on WTO bid

Japan and Russia signed an accord today, backing Russia’s bid to enter the World Trade Organisation and co-operate on anti-terror and nuclear non-proliferation efforts, Japan’s Foreign Ministry said.

Russia, which has to strike separate deals with WTO members as a condition for joining the 148-member global trade body, has launched economic and legal reforms in order to qualify for membership.

It has yet to negotiate a deal with the United States.

Backing from Japan was secured during a three-day visit to Tokyo by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who met Prime Minister Koizumi.