Shigeru Yoshida

We will not fail your expectations of us as a new nation dedicated to peace, democracy, and freedom.

We are determined that our nation shall cease to be a burden on other countries but shall contribute positively to world prosperity, while observing fully the fair trade practices in international commerce.

The second is that the role of China trade in Japanese economy, important as it is, has often been exaggerated, as proven by our experience of the past 6 years.

Almost a century has passed since Japan first entered the world community by concluding a treaty of amity with the United States of America in 1854.

We have listened here to the delegates who have recalled the terrible human suffering, and the great material destruction of the late war in the Pacific. It is with feelings of sorrow that we recall the part played in that catastrophic human experience by the old Japan.

By perfecting this legislative machinery and by participating in the various international agreements we intend to contribute to the wholesome development of world trade.

We pray that henceforth not only Japan but all mankind may know the blessings of harmony and progress.