ECONOMIC TALKS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 24448, 6 November 1940, Page 7

ECONOMIC TALKS

JAPAN AND DUTCH INDIES MUTUAL PROBLEMS DEVELOPMENT OF TRADE ■ BATAVIA, Nov. 4. The Government has issued the following statement to the People’s Council on the Japan-Dutch Indies economic talks; “We do not consider it necessary to emphasise that the so-called ‘ new order ’ would be wholly and absolutely refuted if it implied another Power’s participation in our affairs, nor does the Netherlands Government place any value on the development or promotion of a world economy which would enclose the Dutch Indies in the so-called Asiatic bloc. It is vitally important to maintain the full interior sovereignty of the Dutch Indies, but goody economic relations with all parts of the world, insofar as war conditions have not interrupted them, will be continued as freely as possible and without discrimination. The development of trade with our Asiatic neighbours remains an important object in our economic policy, but no preferential status will be allowed to Ijamper true co-operation.” The statement summarises the Japan-Dutch Indies trade relations under the agreement of 1937, and explains, “Although an- easier- solution was possible, the Netherlands Government had no major objection to Japan’s wish to discuss mutual problems in economic talks between the delegates of both countries who were explicitly restricted to discussions in the economic sphere. Political relations were not discussed.”

The statement quotes the Japanese delegation’s assertion that the Tripar tie Pact had not altered the relations between Japan and the Asiatic part of the Netherlands Kingdom. It adds; “ Close attention was given to the possibility of direct and indirect advantages accruing .to our enemy, regarding which, while closely watching the, position, the Government considers further developments may be awaited. The talks will be continued.”