IN MANCHURIA

Hokitika Guardian, 28 November 1932, Page 2

IN MANCHURIA

JAPANESE ATTITUDE,

JUSTIFICATION OF ACTION

The. attitude of Japan towards China in the Sino-Japanese clash in Manchuria is summed up in. an article in “The Japanese Empire” for 1932. Inter .alia the article says: “The continuous abuse which China has perpetrated upon Japan through the violation of Japan’s treaty rights and fanatic outbursts against this country, cases of which are too numerous to count here, especially since the latter part of 1930, has forced Japan to take drastic- measures in Manchuria for the sheer purpose of safeguarding her treaty rights and special interests in the region, as well as protecting tli e lives and poperty of Japanese subqects residing in Manchuria, including a. large number of Koreans.

MENACE TO PEACE AND ORDER

“Finally, the destruction by Chinese soldiers, who are regular troops of the Mukden army, of the .South Manchuria Railway track the vicinity of Mukden in September, 1931, has compelled tho Japanese army stationed in Manchuria to take the proper steps against the Chinese challenge to put an end to the constant menace to the poac© and order in Manchuria and Japan’s rights and interests in the region, for which the Chinese Government is responsible. “This was the direct cause of the regrettable dash between the Japanese army and (Jninese troops in Manchuria which has created something like a sensation in diplomatic circles in Europe and America, particularly among those Powers who are members of the League of Nations and signatory parties to the Kellogg Anti-War Pact.”

MANCHURIA BOUND TO JAPAN. Elsewhere tho article states:' “It would be idle to say that the very keen interest which Japan feds in Manchurian affairs is clue only to the vast material interest she possesses there. In the mind of the Japanese people the safety of Manchuria, both from external menace and internal disruption, is bound up with the National isafetv of Japan herself. “Tho Japanese Government lias constantly been exercising honest endeavours, in pursuance of its settled

policy, to foster friendly relations between Japan and China and to promote the common prosperity and well-being of tho two countries. Unfortunately, the conduct of officials and individuals of China for some year® has been such that our national sentiment has been irritated.

“In particular, unpleasant incidents have taken place one after another in the regions of Manchuria and Mongols, until the impression has gained .Strength in the' minds of tho Japanese people that Japan’s fair and friendly attitude is not being reciprocated by China.''