120. Telegram From the Embassy in Japan to the Department of State1
1814. I made my first call on Kishi last evening to present letter of credence and recall.
[Page 268]After usual amenities I said that although I had not previously served in Japan I had in past four years spent considerable time on matters concerning Far East and South and Southeast Asia. I nevertheless had much to learn about Japan and would want advice and counsel from him. I felt two countries had same fundamental purposes, principles, and objectives. Problem was to find solutions to specific problems which Japanese govt would feel met its own interests and which we would feel met ours. It was important that on both sides there be free and frank discussion of these problems as they were seen by respective sides. Without such discussion I doubted it would be possible to reach most constructive agreements which would satisfy our mutual interests and requirements of both sides. I concluded by stressing importance of conducting talks and negotiations in private without glare of news publicity on day-to-day developments.
Kishi said he welcomed this approach and fully agreed with importance frank discussions. It had been his custon with Allison and he hoped have same close relations with me both officially and “in a private capacity”.
I said that even before presenting credentials there was one matter I would like to mention. This was question of economic development of SEA, to which I knew Japanese leaders had given much attention. I expressed belief this was field in which I felt there was room for cooperation and constructive action. However we would need to know in considerably more detail than we know now Japanese views in light their great experience before we could study what might be done. I expressed personal view it important initiative this field come from Asians rather than United States. I asked Kishi to designate officials with whom Mr. Waring could at once start such detailed but confidential conversations. Kishi welcomed idea and said he would designate someone with whom Waring could pursue question.
Kishi raised no matters of substance and was very friendly although obviously somewhat preoccupied with domestic political situation revolving about Ishibashi illness.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 123–MacArthur, Douglas. Confidential.↩