Washington -- The Japanese government on Friday asked to join trade talks aimed at creating a massive free trade zone of at least 11 nations including the United States, Canada and Mexico -- a move that could have dramatic implications for the U.S. auto industry.

"Emerging countries in Asia are shifting to an open economy one after another. If Japan alone remains an inward-looking economy, there would be no chance for growth," Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told a news conference in Tokyo, according to media reports in Japan, where he announced the world's third largest economy would ask to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership talks. "This is our last chance. If we miss this opportunity, Japan will be left behind."]]>