TNAG-0115-FCO40-151-Departmental-briefs-for-Commonwealth-Prime-Minister-s-and-ot-1969 — Page 72

NOTHING TO BE WRITTEN IN THIS MARGIN

Korea.

CONFIDENTIAL

Such differences could be over-

come through mutual understanding,

since the two countries were agreed on

the necessity to maintain friendly

relations. Political stability in the

Republic of Korea had an important

bearing in the stability of Japan. The

Japanese therefore intended to cooperate

with that country not only in trade and

economic matters but also in international

affairs generally.

39. As regards the Security Treaty, the

Japanese Government had decided that

the Treaty should be continued.

They

had not however finally made up their

by

minds about the method in which this

should be achieved. They would seek to

reach agreement about this with the

United States Government.

40. On defence, Mr. Aichi emphasised that

under the constitution:

(a) it was not possible for Japan

to have conscription;

(b) forces could not be deployed

overseas

It was probable that the forces could not

reamifrict

be increased by voluntary meme to more

than 200,000 - 250,000. Kilitary

capacity could therefore be increased only

by raising efficiency. This was the

object of the 5-year defence plans. The

third one was at present in orogress. The

/fourth

CONFIDERIAL

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