EASTERN SITUATION.

Gisborne Times, Volume X, Issue 945, 18 July 1903, Page 2

EASTERN SITUATION.

RUSSIA TO RESUME AGGRESSION

By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright Pekii), July 16. Tho Russian delegates at the Port Arthur conference admit that the contingency of war was discussed.

London, July 16.

Routor’s Port Arthur correspondent assevts that there are indications that the immediate outcome of the conference will be increased Russiau activity in Manchuria. The opposition to the opening of the ports is said to be due to the Russian objection to consuls accredited to China living in towns practically under Russian control with the prospect of their nation enjoying extra territorial rights, leading to friction similar to that experienced at Niuchwang.

RUSSIA “ CHAFFING ” THE POWERS. •

By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright Reoeived 10.30 p.m., July 17. Washington, July 17. China has promised the Washington authorities the early opening of Mukden and Tutuugkao to the world’s trade. This is presumably after the Russian evacuation of Manchuria in September. Russia promises not to oppose it.

St. Petersburg, July 17. Advices reoeived state that Manchuria not having been opened to foreign trade was due to tho presuuco of Chinese, British, and American military spies in the guise of merchants. Russia has intimated to Pekin its willingness to permit foreigners to live in Manohuria six years hence, hoping in the meanwhile to reestablish order and tranquility.

RUSSIA SCORES IN DIPLOMAOY.

WHILE AMERICA SCOOPS TRADE GAIN.

By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright

Reoeived 1.15 a.m., July 18. Washington, July 17.

It is semi-officially announced bore that Mr Hay and M Cassini have arranged for tho opening of tho treaty ports ou the 28th. Tho Russian Charge D’Aft'aires afterwards renewed the pledge in writing. Mr Conger’s duty was to secure the embodiment of a oommeroiul treaty with China in the conditions whereon the ports were open. The Conference at Port Arthur, unifying, plaoed the internal administration of Manchuria on a workable and harmonious basis, rendering pussiblo the opening of the ports wituout undue sacrifice, of Russia’s interests, guaranteeing that "the opumug will he respeoted. Auieiioaus are elated at, Mr Hay’s success, J apan warmly complimenting him, It is semi-uffioially interpreted in New York that Russia has scored a nominal diplomatic victory in getting America to assent to her ownership of Manchuria, while America secured a complete business victory. '