Shidehara Statement of Japanese Foreign Policy

Tōkyō Asahi Shimbun, July 10, 1929

One of the most urgent needs of the day is the improvement of Sino-Japanese relations and the deepening of a neighborly friendship between the two countries. In connection with changes in the "unequal treaties," our policy of friendly cooperation with China has already been demonstrated in a practical way by the holding of the Special Customs Conference and the Extraterritoriality Conference. In view of the present developments in China this administration recognizes the necessity of increasingly carrying out this policy. In their relations each country must understand and give sympathetic consideration to the special viewpoint of the other, and thereby seek a fair and impartial point of balance. To chase about aimlessly after minor interests is not the way to preserve the main interest. To move troops about rashly is not the way to enhance the national prestige. What this administration desires is co-existence and co-prosperity. Especially in the economic relations between the two countries must there be free and untrammeled development. Our country is determined not only to reject an aggressive policy for any part of China but also to offer willingly our friendly cooperation in the attainment of the aspirations of the Chinese people. Nevertheless, it is the undoubted duty of this government to preserve those legitimate and important rights, which are indispensable to our nation's prosperity and existence. We believe that the Chinese people also will fully understand this. This administration will emphasize the improvement of relations between the empire and the other powers, and the encouragement of mutual commerce and enterprise. We must be ever vigilant against being too partial to the political point of view and failing to give due consideration to economic relations. The improvement of our international financial position depends primarily upon the peaceful development of commerce and overseas enterprises. In view of our present position among the powers it is also the high destiny of our country to contribute to the peace of the world and the happiness of mankind by cooperating in the activities of the League of Nations. This administration attaches great importance to the League of Nations and will make every effort to help in the realization of its aims.

At this time we must, in cooperation with the other powers, resolutely promote the establishment of an international agreement. The object of this agreement should not be restricted merely to the limitation of arms but should include substantial reductions in arms. The empire's sincere attitude in this matter has already often been demonstrated. Although plans for such an agreement have repeatedly met with difficulties in the past, public demand is more intense, and the time is becoming ripe for the accomplishment of this cherished desire. It is believed that the consummation of this great world undertaking will not be difficult if each power approaches this matter in a spirit of mutual conciliation and, taking into consideration the special situation of each country, provides equally for the security of all.