893.01 Manchuria/252: Telegram
The Ambassador in Japan (Grew) to the Secretary of State
[Received June 13—10:50 a.m.]
155. The movement for recognition of Manchukuo seems to be gaining headway in the past few days. Both major political parties are reported as preparing a joint resolution in favor of recognition, for presentation to the Diet tomorrow. Count Uchida, whose appointment as Foreign Minister seems to be imminent, is reported as strongly in favor of immediate recognition. According to several press interviews, General Araki, Minister for War, is, curiously, reported as opposed to immediate recognition because he desires the settlement of the question of Manchurian administration (Sanshomondai) before granting recognition.
The influential Nichi Nichi suggests that Chinese in Manchuria fear that the delay in recognition by Japan is due to Japan’s desire to annex that country—a belief growing out of the present Japanese plan to combine the Japanese authorities in Manchuria under one head. The above paper, the Chugai, the Yomiuri and the Osaka Mainichi [Page 76] have all published editorials in the past 3 days advocating immediate recognition.
Replying to interpellations in the Diet the Government has stated that the time is still premature for recognition although the Government is prepared to grant recognition when the time arrives. Public opinion seems to be split, some advocating immediate recognition—others advising a watchful waiting policy. The press tonight reports that Uchida and Araki are meeting to discuss this question.