THE FAR EAST

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22345, 17 February 1936, Page 9

THE FAR EAST

FRONTIER CLASHES MOSCOW'S VERSION JAPANESE INVASION REPULSE BY MONGOLS By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright (Received February 16, 5.5 p.m.) LONDON. Feb. 15 Despatches from Moscow state that the Soviet has suggested to the Japanese Ambassador the appointment of an International Commission to report on frontier incidents with a view to improving the relations between Russia and Japan. A version of the Mongolian frontier clashes issued in Moscow claims that Japanese troops crossed the frontier in 21 motor vehicles. One hundred Mongolians opposed them four miles behind the border and kept up a running fight until reinforcements arrived a few miles farther back and forced the invaders to retire.

About 500 Japanese and Manchukuo soldiers participated. A message from Tokio says the press is calm. Officials predict an amicable settlement. It is believed that although such incidents are inevitable in the wild border region Japan is determined to prevent them developing into open conflict. A later despatch from Tokio states that Manchukuo troops, after several hours' hand-to-band fighting, repulsed 1000 Mongolians who tried to storm an outpost. CONFLICTING REPORTS TOKIO OFFICIALS CALM NO SERIOUS RESULT EXPECTED LONDON, Feb. 14 There are the usual conflicting accounts of clashes, on the Manchukuo frontier. The Harbin allegation that Soviet airmen, without causing any casualties, dropped bombs during fighting between Mongols and Japanese and Manchukuans is not mentioned in a report from Tokio. This states that Japanese officials are confident serious consequences will not follow the incidents. The Foreign Minister, Mr. Hirota, is urging a joint commission to investigate the sharp fight on the frontier early this month. A message from Urga denies that 600 Mongols raided Manchukuan territory, near Kelemetu, on February 8. On the contrary, it is asserted that tho Japanese and Manchukuans penetrated Mongolia 100 miles from Kelemetu and exchanged shots with Mongol guards.