893.01/699: Telegram
The Ambassador in Japan (Grew) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 31—6:30 a.m.]
215. Following is Domei translation of the Government’s statement issued today: [Page 61]
“Statement of the Imperial Japanese Government upon the occasion of the establishment of the new Central Government:
March 30, 1940. Life is a constant progression, and conditions change from time to time. The relations between nations are regulated in accordance with these changes. It is in conformity with such actualities that Japan is exerting her utmost efforts for the [omission] manifestation of international justice and the firm establishment of peace among mankind.
Now that a new Central Government of China has been established, and the construction of a renascent China begun, the full [sic] Japanese Government wish to offer their congratulations, they must extend to this new government their wholehearted cooperation and support for its development, in accordance with their repeated declarations.
It is Japan’s earnest expectation that the various powers will come to a clear understanding of this solemn reality, and will forthwith contribute toward the establishment of peace in East Asia.
What Japan asks of China is that she make complete her independence and freedom on a moral basis, and that she proceed, in cooperation with Japan, towards the construction of a new order in Asia, thereby mutually participating in the resulting peace and prosperity.
In order that Japan, and the other countries of East Asia, may preserve their existence, it is only natural that she should show special concern and desire for the development and utilization of the resources of China. Japan has no intention, however, of excluding such peaceful economic activities of third powers as conform with the new situation in East Asia. On the contrary it is her desire to cooperate with these powers and thereafter share with them the benefits of international amnesties [amenities?]. It is for this reason that Japan, despite the abnormal conditions arising out of continued military operations, has sustained numerous inconveniences in order to protect the rights and interests of third powers. The Imperial Japanese Government are confident that the new China will pursue a similar policy.
A renascent China has just set out on the road to progress; a new defence is about to commence in East Asia. So long, however, as the remaining pro-Communist and anti-Japanese forces fail to awaken from their illusory dreams, Japan will not lay down her arms: nor will she relax her vigilance and her firm determination to surmount any obstacles that may arise in the future.”
Sent to the Department via Shanghai. Shanghai please repeat to Chungking and Peiping.