News in Brief --(24-01-2018)

11 states to sign Asia-Pacific trade deal in Mar sans US
TOKYO, Jan 23: Eleven countries aiming to forge a new Asia-Pacific trade pact after the United States pulled out of an earlier version will hold a signing ceremony in Chile in March, Japan's economy minister said on Tuesday in a big win for Tokyo. Trade officials from the 11 countries had been meeting in Tokyo to try to resolve rifts including Canada's insistence on protection of its cultural industries such as movies, TV and music. — Reuters
ECB seeks balance to maintain low-inflation recovery drive
FRANKFURT AM MAIN, Jan 23: European Central Bank president Mario Draghi will paper over discord among colleagues at a press conference Thursday, analysts predict, with policymakers divided on their response to heftier economic growth unaccompanied by higher inflation. Top central bankers know the end is in sight for massive support to the 19-nation eurozone. But the ECB's governing council meeting in Frankfurt will bring another round in the battle. — AFP
Lankan rupee hits record low due to dollar demand
COLOMBO, Jan 23: The Sri Lankan rupee hit a record low on Tuesday as banks and importers bought dollars, before recovering to close slightly weaker on selling of the U.S. currency by exporters. The spot rupee, which traded at a record low of 154.20/25 per dollar during the day, ended at 154.05/15, compared with Monday's close of 154.00/10. — Reuters
Philippine economy grows 6.7pc
MANILA, Jan 23: The Philippine economy grew 6.7 per cent in 2017, remaining one of Asia's best performers despite a weaker business process outsourcing industry, the government announced Tuesday. Government spending ensured the country remained one of Asia's fastest-growing major economies, behind only China and Vietnam, Economic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia told reporters. — AFP