JAPAN’S POLICY.

Taranaki Daily News, 11 June 1921, Page 5

JAPAN’S POLICY.

A DESIRE FOR PEACE, CO-OPERATION WITH BRITAIN. WILL SUPPORT THE LEAGUE. By Telegraph.— Press Assn—Copyright, London, June 9. In the course of a special message, published in the Manchester Guardian’s Japanese number, M. Hara (Prime Minister of Japan) writes: “Muuh can be accomplished by intercourse between private citizens, conferences between merchants, and the frank disclosure of intentions by both sides. I desire to see these relations established between Japan and our old ally Britain.” Count Uchida (Minister of Foreign Affairs) writes: “The Government and people of our Japan are in full sympathy with the new national spirit, and will faithfully support the League of Nations. A false and malicious construction has been placed in some quarters on what Japan has done from sheer necessity, and purely in self-defence, in Siberia and China. There is no nation more interested in a peaceful Siberia and a united and prosperous China than Japan. Japan’s controlling motive in her policy in the Far East is the legitimate desire to make secure her economic life. Peace in the Far East is to Japan the sine qua non. We have entered into alliances and even fought in wars in order to preserve that peace.” Paris, June 9.

The Echo de Paris says that by her naval construction Japan in effect regulates the American fleet. By renewing the Anglo-Japanese Alliance Britain might indirectly prevent naval rivalry, tending to separate her from both countries, owing to the crushing fiscal burden which the rivalry entails. Although America is arming, not only against Japan, but because she is determined to keep her flag in the foremost place all over the world, it is equally true that the renewal of the alliance will lessen the expected clash in the Pacific. Prince Hirohito (Crown Prince of Japan), interviewed by the Matin, said that France and Japan, whose relations were excellent, must co-operate with other nations in maintaining the world’s peace. Japan would ever be mindful of France’s stupendous effort on behalf of the rights of humanity. “I hope America and Japan may always be found working hand in hand, not only for our mutual benefit, but to ensure lasting peace throughout the world,” added Prince Hirohito.—Aus.N.Z. Cable Assn.