Marc Brunet Jan 18, 2014:

re: 「と」 vs 「との」implications。。。 Yes, great point from Ryoko-san! However should we not consider the difference pointed out above as follows: 「と」 is the unmarked form of the reference made. As such it allows both intrepretations (X and Y are/are not to take part in the talks); the 「との」, on the other hand, is the marked form of the reference, -- one that might be used in a legal document to clear that ambiguity, leaving only one interpretation possible (X and Y may take part in the JV but are not meant to take part in the talks for it.)