Japan is urging The United Kingdom to remain a part of the European Union, hinting that tens of thousands of British jobs at Japanese firms could be at stake.

In a statement posted at the Japanese Embassy in London’s website, Tokyo reminds that more than 1,300 Japanese companies have invested in the UK as a part of the EU, creating 130,000 jobs. 

“This fact demonstrates that the advantage of the UK as a gateway to the European market has attracted Japanese investment,” the statement iterates, making clear that Tokyo likes getting access to the continent.

PM David Cameron is placating isolationists and Euro-skeptics by pledging to renegotiate the UK-EU relationship, as well as to hold a referendum on membership before the end of 2017.

Euro-skeptic Conservative MP Julian Brazier dismissed Japan's concerns, saying, “I'm not sure they are well qualified to see the way forward for Britain.  In deciding on our national interest we may have to disappoint their expectations.”

US President Barack Obama's administration said in January that the United States needed London to retain a “strong voice” within the EU, and last week British Foreign Secretary William Hague said that withdrawal from the EU would deter investors, undermine trade and damage Britain's global status.