Office of the Historian

793.94/16686: Telegram

The Ambassador in Japan (Grew) to the Secretary of State

Tokyo, June 16, 1941—6 p.m.
[Received June 17—6:30 a.m.]

831. Admiral Suetsugu, Chairman, Cooperative Council [of] Imperial Rule Assistance Association, speaking before first of series meeting this body, stated today [that] issues soon demanding Japan’s final decision are: Settlement China incident, Southern problem and approaching American participation [in] war. Referring to Tripartite Alliance as union [of] powers aiming construct new world order and based upon imperial will, Suetsugu said: “If United States enters war, Japan must be resolved take up arms for sake faith, honor. Southern issue is turning point [of] fate [of] Great East Asia; Japan [Page 268] must not be satisfied present situation. Japan holds final key to world war; her task is not easy demands [sic], Resolve through preparation.”

Sent Department via Shanghai.

Grew