762.9411/96: Telegram
The Ambassador in Japan (Grew) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 5—9:30 a.m.]
946. Following [is] summarized translation [of] press report: Konoye statement yesterday:
“Aim tripartite pact cooperation signatories establish new world order. Should any third power, including United States, attack one [Page 662] signatory other signatories will aid attacked power. Fate of Pacific area and question peace [or] war depend United States [and] Japan’s mutual understanding respect each other’s position. If United States refuses understand real intentions Japan, Germany, Italy and continues persistently its challenging attitude [and] acts regarding pact as hostile act by three powers those powers will be forced to go to war. Japan now endeavoring adjust Russo-Japanese political economic relations will make every effort reduce friction Japan [and] Russia. Now engaged diplomatic maneuvers [to] induce Russia, Britain, United States suspend operations assistance [to] Chiang regime.”