JAPANS AIMS

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21218, 14 September 1940, Page 8

JAPANS AIMS

TRADE IN ASIA “SOURCES OF SUPPLY” CRUSHING ALL OBSTACLES (United Press Asn.—Elec. Tel. Copyright) (Received Sept. 14, 3.15 p.m.) TOKIO, Sept. 13 Mr Matsuona, Japanese Minister of Railways, addressing the Japanese Trade Association, said the Greater East Asia programme at present concentrated on the acquisition of materials and the arranging of sources of supply to' which, Mr Kobayashi’s assignment in the Dutch East Indies related. “In the establishing of Greater East Asia and a common prosperity in that sphere, it is necessary to cooperate with the countries having similar aspirations, and simultaneously crush all obstacles in our path,” he said. “ Japan, in order to cope with the present complex international situation, must put its house in order domestically, strengthen its national power in accordance with the spirit of its imperial way. Let each Asiatic race fulfil its own ambition so that all countries will enjoy and maintain a common prosperity.’’ Regarding trade with countries, not belonging to the East Asiatic sphere, Mr Matsuona said the barter methods would be increased.

IN INDOCHINA

JAPANESE ASSURANCES CIVILIAN MOBILISATION RETURN OF CONFIDENCE (United Press Asn.—Elec. Tel. Copyright) LONDON, Sept. 12 It is reported from Hanoi that the French residents of Indo-China are seemingly taking up courage as a result of the statement regarding American interest in their country made recently by the United States Secretary of State, Mr Cordell Hull There has been almost a total mobilisation of business men, who parade in uniform and drill daily. French naval guards surround Government buildings. The evacuation of Hanoi has been brought virtually to a standstill, coincident with this return of confidence.

The French are reported to have obtained Japanese assurances that the Japanese army in Canton will refrain from further threats for the duration of negotiations between Japan and Indo-China. These negotiations will be resumed on the return of the Japanese mission from Tokio on Friday. Military reports from North China received at Chungking state that guerillas totalling 300,000 engaged in what is said to be the greatest guerilla offensive during the war against Japan, and are tearing up railways and highways in the areas occupied by the Japanese.