VIOLENT REACTIONS

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20025, 25 August 1939, Page 5

VIOLENT REACTIONS

OPINIONS IN JAPAN “BETRAYAL” DENOUNCED (Reed. Aug. 25, 10.30 a.m.) LONDON, Aug. 24. The pact of non-aggression concluded at ‘Moscow between Russia and Germany resulted in violent reactions in the Japanese press. Germany is denounced for her “bettrayal.’ ’lt is stated that the signing of the pant proves that the anti-Comintern never was even a spiritual accord. The Hochi declares: “The , viper catcher has. been stung Iby the viper. Japan’s great anger and indignation, must be borne in silence.” The Nichi Nichi says: “Italy may follow Germany and advise Japan to trail behind, but the Soviet Government cominitern :is the same although differently named. Why waste time quibbling. Let us return to Japan’s policy of autonomy and independence.”

Asahi says: “Japan must restart with a clean sheet.”

Admiral Kanazawa, the Japanese navy spokesman in Tokio, refrained from definite comment until the international situation cleared. He said that, speaking personally, he welcomed the Soviet-German pact, which was causing the nations to realise the futility of reliance on others. The Japanese objective in Eastern Asia would best be served through independence and self-reliance, which was the navy’s unenangea and traditional policy. It did not antagonise other Powers or prevent their co-operation.