This I most urgently reiterate and again invite the attention of my
countrymen to this reproach upon our civilization.
The closing year has witnessed a decided strengthening of Japan's
relations to other States. The development of her independent judicial
and administrative functions under the treaties which took effect July
17, 1899, has proceeded without international friction, showing the
competence of the Japanese to hold a foremost place among modern
peoples.
In the treatment of the difficult Chinese problems Japan has acted in
harmonious concert with the other powers, and her generous cooperation
materially aided in the joint relief of the beleaguered legations in
Peking and in bringing about an understanding preliminary to a
settlement of the issues between the powers and China. Japan's
declarations in favor of the integrity of the Chinese Empire and the
conservation of open world trade therewith have been frank and positive.
As a factor for promoting the general interests of peace, order, and
fair commerce in the Far East the influence of Japan can hardly be
overestimated.
Pages:
283
284
285
286
287
288
289
290
291
292
293
294
295
296
297
298
299
300
301
302
303
304
305
306
307