China and believed to be 14 countries have signed a trade partnership which many in Asia hope will help alleviate the effects of the pandemic. The deal is described as less comprehensive than the 11 nation trans-Pacific deal the u.s. pulled out of 4 years ago. Reportedly members include ten members from the Association of South East Nations, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand. Hopes are that India who pulled out, thought to be due to prerequisites will rejoin. Asia is committed to multi nation efforts for freer trade. The signing of the the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership agreement has been hailed as a victory against protectionism, and for multilateralism and free trade.