EAST ASIAN BLOC.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 55, Issue 178, 11 May 1935, Page 5

EAST ASIAN BLOC.

JAPAN'S ASPIRATIONS.

LONDON, April 20. "Co-operation by Japan in Manchukuo is the first move toward a new organisation for world peace," says a pamphlet entitled "Japan's attitude toward the crisis." The pamphlet has been issued by the Japanese War Office which has circulated 200,000 copies in celebration oi the anniversary of the battle of Mukden, says the Tokio correspondent of "The Times." It is contended in the pamphlet that a new organ of peace is needed compatible with the actual conditions in East Asia, the countries of which- cannot rely upon the League of Nation, which was created to maintain the status quo of the great European countries, their rights, interests anj conies "They desire to subordinate East Asia to Europe, and, moreover radically oppose Japan's desires. Hence increased Japanese armaments are essential," the pamphlet adds. The correspondent explains that the Japanese regard Japan's action in leaving the League as marking a victors for the East Asian principle over the world principle as embodied m the League They hold that the East Asian bloc must consist of Japan Manchukuo and China with Japan, by reason of her strength and prowess, taking the lead and being solely responsible for peace in those countries. Nevertheless, Japan does not challenge the corresponding leadership and esponsibility of the British Empire west and south of Singapore, or those of the United States on the American continent. Thus Japanese speaking through the War Office leaves no room for misunderstanding as to the nature or extent of its aspirations.