794.00/117
The Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Davies) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 8.]
Sir: I have the honor to report that upon the same occasion as is described in my despatch No. 152 of March 26, 1937, the Japanese Ambassador stated to me the following:
He wished to assure me that his Government had no imperialistic ideas of territorial aggressive expansion through the Philippines or through Singapore or the south; that notwithstanding statements to the contrary of jingoes in his own country, which he deplored, he was positive that the attitude of his Government was as above stated; that “Manchukuo” provided them with an outlet for their surplus population and with a source of raw materials sufficient for their existence; that they were content to consolidate their gains and develop their national existence through such a policy.
I then asked him “What about China?” He stated that Japan had made a great mistake in China; that he had been stationed in China and was for a time the recognized expert in Chinese affairs; that he had resigned in protest against the policy of Japan toward China; that his attitude was well known, and that his return to the Service was an indication of an acceptance of his views; that Japan had no policy or intention of territorial acquisition of Chinese territory; but that the Chinese situation was difficult as they were so close together and there were constant matters of difference which amounted to irritations as between the two peoples.
I gathered from this conversation, and other information which I have generally picked up here, that the economic and financial condition [Page 61] of Japan is pressing heavily upon the Government and that Japan, like Germany, and Italy, are much concerned over the rearmament of Great Britain and other democracies, and their own economic inability to continue armament expansion.
The Japanese Ambassador deplored with me the conditions in the world which seemed to indicate a lack of statesmanship among the leaders of the nations of the world in failing to provide for some means for the settlement of world conditions through equitable, peaceable arrangements, instead of through the imposition of these enormous war armament costs with their burden on the civilian populations and the threat of catastrophic war. In that connection he stated very strongly his belief that the voice of the United States, and particularly that of President Roosevelt, would have great moral effect upon world public opinion and perhaps be the most influential single factor alleviating these conditions. He also spoke enthusiastically of the great practical contributions which were being made through the trade agreements of Secretary Hull.
Respectfully yours,