711.94/20661/9
The Postmaster General (Walker) to the Secretary of State 73
Memorandum74
After some delays, caused by new German offers to Mr. Matsuoka and by certain items in the “Preliminary Draft”, Colonel Iwakuro came to New York and gave his “unofficial” consent to every substantial point—viz:
- (1)
- No military action against the U. S., if our Government decides on “protective defensive action against Germany”;
- (2)
- Mediation of President Roosevelt for China–Japan peace on basis offered to, and accepted by President Roosevelt, as just and prudent;
- (3)
- Acceptance of U. S. credit that would involve Japanese business in a substantial dependent alliance with the U. S.;
- (4)
- Release of high percentage of Japanese merchant marine;
- (5)
- Mutual pledge of Pacific peace and appropriate Naval placements;
- (6)
- Conference at Honolulu opened by President Roosevelt.
Colonel Iwakuro feels that it will be impossible politically to effect a 180 degree change unless he can present some substantial benefits (1) Economically—and as respecting Japanese ownership of some Dutch-East Indian oil and some rubber and tin; (2) Politically—and as respecting removal of Hong-Kong and Singapore as doorways to further political encroachment by the British in the Far East.
He, with Mr. Wikawa and the Japanese Ambassador, is preparing a short statement incorporating all the points previously mentioned. This draft will be completed within a few days—and will be shown to us during the course of preparation.
The Japanese desire to have their draft shown unofficially to Mr. Hull in the expectation that Mr. Hull will unofficially inform a third party, whether such a draft would be accepted or rejected substantially.
If acceptable, it would be presented immediately to Mr. Hull by Admiral Nomura. Thereupon, announcement could be made jointly e. g., that the U. S. and Japan are negotiating for the establishment [Page 120] of Peace in the Pacific. Thereafter, procedure and phrasing would be carefully worked out by both governments.
It is desired to counter-balance, as quickly as possible, the German offers to Mr. Matsuoka. If these negotiations with the U. S. fail, the Japanese authorities are certain that they will lose control and a war in the Southwestern Pacific will be started.