JAPAN AFFIRMS NEUTRALITY

Timaru Herald, Volume CXLVII, Issue 21448, 12 September 1939, Page 7

JAPAN AFFIRMS NEUTRALITY

READY TO RESUME TALKS “ Miscalculation ” by Hitler United Press association —By Electric Telegraph c'opvright LONDON. September 19. The Prime Minister of Japan (General Abe) said that the European war had broken out because of a miscalculation by Hitler. General Abe added that Japan would be t trictly neutral, and might undertake some sort of adjustment of diplomatic relations with the Soviet, Britain, France, and America. ‘‘lt would be a mistake to think that the outbreak of the European war provides Japan with a chance to settle the China affair easily,” said the Prime Minister. He urged the nation to be prepared for economic and diplomatic difficulties as a result of ( the European situation, which was becoming; more complicated. “The European war has broken out as a result of a miscalculation by Hitler. He might follow Bismarck’s example and withdraw his troops from Poland on condition that Danzig returns to the Reich. ‘‘Japan will not hesitate to resume her talks with Britain provided Britain breaks the deadlock by showing sincerity.” Referring to the suggested RussoGerman Pact, General Abe said: "Herr von Ribbentrop distinguishes I the Comintern from the Russian Government. He emphasises the possibility of distinguishing a RucsoJapanese Non-aggression Pact from the spirit of the Anti-Comintern Pact. Such remarks are questionable, and run counter to Japan’s intention. She must consider the matter from the standpoint of her national character. The same can be said about rumours of an Anglo-Japanese Pact.”