In this March 29, 2018 photo, Chinese Ministry of Commerce spokesman Gao Feng speaks during a press conference at the ministry in Beijing. (MARK SCHIEFELBEIN / AP)

BEIJING – China is readily considering joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) to promote economic globalization and regional economic integration, the Ministry of Commerce (MOC) said on Thursday.

The country is actively conducting research on joining the CPTPP, MOC spokesperson Gao Feng told a press conference when responding to a question on China's timetable of joining the pact.

Gao said that China is willing to strengthen technical communication and exchanges on relevant issues with all CPTPP members.

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The country last year voiced its openness to joining the CPTPP following the signature of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership agreement.