JAPAN’S TRADE

Evening Star, Issue 26042, 5 March 1947, Page 8

JAPAN’S TRADE

KEEN WORLD INTEREST ONLY NEW ZEALAND. APATHETIC (From B. Mair, _N.Z.P.A. Representative in Japan.) (Ree. 12.10 p.m.) TOKIO, Mar. 4. Militarily New Zealand is ably represented in Japan by the Brigade of the -2nd N.Z.E.F., under the command of Brigadier L. Potter, but from the diplomatic and trade viewpoints there is complete lack of direct Dominion participation, which contrasts strangely with the intense activity of other nations in Tokio and elsewhere in Japan.' At present, under the terms of the surrender and occupation policy of the Allied Powers, Japan’s trade with overseas countries does not exist, but with, the signing of the peace treaty and the determination that as soon as possible Japan must prove capable of supporting herself and cease to be a charge on the finances of her conquerors, especially America, trade will begin move again, and in preparation for y that day the missions of many nations have established themselves in the Japanese capital. America* of course, is here in force, militarily, diplomatically, and economically, and she holds the dominating position, but the United Kingdom lias a strong liaison mission, and Australians, who now take the major share in manning and supplying the 8.C.0.F., have extended their interest in Japan by the appointment of an economic mission and the setting up of a political liaison officer. Russia is showing her concern over the Japan of the future by tlie presence of a diplomatic mission, through which a-large number of Soviet men and civilians enter Tokio. Some sources place the number at over 600.

Included in other official representa-' tions are a Canadian legation, Dutch and Belgian military missions, French and Chinese missions; and Swedish, Swiss, and Philippine diplomatic missions. Aside from permanent, establishment there have been numerous visits from Ministers arid high officials in various Governments. , •