JAP. SCHEMES.

Auckland Star, Volume LXX, Issue 17, 21 January 1939, Page 9

JAP. SCHEMES.

CHINA'S FUTURE. Conducive to Real Peace and Well-being of World. WILL RESPECT SOVEREIGNTY. United Press Association.—Copyright. (Received 12.30 p.m.) TOKYO, January 20. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Arita, in a speech at the l'eopening of the Diet, said Japan's schemes for China do not threaten China's independence or foreign Powers' interests. He pointed out that as a result of Japan's actions in Manchukuo 30,000,000 people lived and worked with security, and British and American trade improved. Referring to Japan's plan for the creation of a new order in Fast Asia, in which Japan and Manchukuo will preserve their independence and individuality, but will unite for active collaboration and mutual aid, Mr. Arita declared Japan was convinced that such a new order was not only necessary for the existence and healthy development of China, Japan and Manchukuo, but conducive to the real peace and wellbeing of the whole world. He reiterated that Japan asks neither territory nor indemnity from China, and will respect her sovereignty and be prepared to consider the abolition of extraterritoriality and foreign concessions. Mr. Arita added that vast fields were left open in which the rights and interests of other countries for the commercial and other peaceful enterprises of their nationals were not affected and even welcomed. He claimed that Japan had always striven for the removal of trade barriers, and described foreign Powers' complaints about interference with their rights in China as unavoidable owing to the military necessities of the situation.