Tanaka promises new aid policy

Press, Volume CXIII, Issue 33355, 13 October 1973, Page 15

Tanaka promises new aid policy

(N.Z.P.A.-Reuter—Copyright> TOKYO, October 12. The Japanese Prime Minister (Mr Tanaka) today promised a new policy on aid by his country to developing nations “breaking with past practices, which were inclined to seek our own profit.”

He spoke on the second day of the annual Ministerial conference for the economic development of South-East Asia, being held; in Tokyo. The previously nine-nation) conference has been ex-

ipanded with the admission iof Burma, Australia, and 'New Zealand. Japan has particularly welcomed the addition of Australia and New Zealand, which gives the [conference more weight in [economic and technical assistance. i “It is necessary for us to .reflect upon past aid, which Iwas inclined to seek our own profit, and to carry out I sincerely ways and means of assistance which can be helpful to the other side.” Mr Tanaka told the conference. ; “Japanese past development co-operation has not been satisfactory on every point. Therefore we must improve i‘ in both-quantity and quality. We will renew Jour efforts to improve the qualitative aspects.” “MUTUAL RELIANCE” Mr Tanaka said Japan's relations with the countries lof the region represented at the conference were based on mutual reliance. “I consider that relationship very satisfactory at present, but there must be a continuous dialogue at every [level, both official and private. “As part of this dialogue. I am planning to visit some countries of this region al (the earliest possible date,” : the Prime Minister added. I There has been speculation that Mr Tanaka will make a tour of South-East Asia early next year.