761.94/943
The Ambassador in Japan (Grew) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 14, 1937.]
Sir: With reference to the Embassy’s despatch No. 2188, dated December 16, 1936, on the subject of Soviet-Japanese relations, I have the honor to report that the question of the failure of the Soviet Government to sign the fisheries treaty has outshadowed all others in Soviet-Japanese relations during the past two weeks. A solution to the disturbing problem has finally been found in the extension for one year of the 1928 Fishery Treaty, which expires December 31 of this [Page 452] year. Although this greatly relieves the actual situation, the tension which accompanied the slight to Japan continues but little abated.
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The final agreement was signed in Moscow on December 28, and was given out by the Foreign Office here the next day. The Protocol as published in the Japan Advertiser of December 30 reads as follows:
“Whereas the term of duration of the fishery convention between Japan and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, signed on January 23, 1928, and prolonged by the protocol signed on May 25, 1936, comes to an end on December 31, 1936; and
“Whereas a new convention will not be concluded before December 31, 1936;
“The Governments of Japan and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics hereby agree that the fishery convention between Japan and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics as well as the documents annexed thereto, signed on January 23, 1928, shall remain in force until December 31, 1937.
“In witness whereof the undersigned, duly authorized by their respective Governments, have signed the present protocol.
“Done in public in the City of Moscow on the 28th day of the 12th month of the 11th year of Showa, corresponding to December 28, 1936.
M. Shigemitsu
B. Stomoniakov.”
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In spite of suspicion, therefore, neither country seems willing to let relations lapse into a really dangerous state.
Respectfully yours,