Foreign Relations of the United States Diplomatic Papers, 1940, The Far East, Volume IV

794.00/168: Telegram

The Ambassador in Japan (Grew) to the Secretary of State

Tokyo, February 10, 1940—6 p.m.
[Received February 11—7:20 a.m.]

105. Interpellating in Diet Committee February 9th Miyake of Shakai Taishuto urged Japanese economic expansion [in] South Seas, India, Motherland Indies, Philippines; advised nonaggression treaties with powers concerned to demonstrate absence aggressive intentions. Foreign Minister Arita replied economic expansion those regions essential and Japan would welcome such treaties but other countries probably doubt Japan’s intentions and realization difficult. Press regards statement significant in view possibility embargo American trade.

Miyake proposed reinforce political ties Germany, Italy for rebuilding new world order and for assistance readjusting relations Soviet Union, persuading latter cease aid China. Arita’s reply general, interpreted by press as indication disapproval closer cooperation Germany.

Arita admitted Nine Power Treaty⁷ unsuited present situation but professed uncertainty whether abolition would hasten or hinder establishment new order.

Grew

7. Signed at Washington, February 6, 1922; Foreign Relations, 1922, vol. i, p. 276.