704.00/253: Telegram
The Ambassador in Japan ( Grew ) to the Secretary of State
[Extracts]
Tokyo
, May 5,
1941—3 p.m.
[Received May 5—8:08 a.m.]
[Received May 5—8:08 a.m.]
641. Following summary from today’s vernacular press. Matsuoka’s interview Japanese press correspondents last night at Kyoto:
- 1.
- Thai–French Indochina settlement will be formally concluded soon. Matsuoka had thought economic talks with French Indochina would require 6 months or year. For past 40 years Japan has been unable to touch this issue; therefore slow progress natural. Although completely satisfactory settlement for Japan cannot be expected negotiations have progressed favorably.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
- 5.
- Japan will pursue peace policy toward America believing sincerity of utmost importance. Discussions expected continue but “there is no necessity for me to visit America now since I know United States very well. It would be preferable for President Roosevelt or Secretary Hull come here since they do not possess knowledge of Japan. They would be heartily welcome.”
- 6.
- Japan’s faith and sincerity must be made known to world. For example, Japan has obtained nothing from Thai-French Indochina mediation not written in treaty. Bureaucratic diplomacy of past must be changed with complete responsibility placed in official in charge. For example, Foreign Minister von Ribbentrop handles diplomatic issues with “blitz” speed. Premier Konoye understands general outline Japan’s diplomacy and entrusts its execution completely to Matsuoka. Reform diplomatic structure may be carried out June.
Grew