Soviet Trade

"Japan is losing millions of yen trade each year by maintaining anti-Russian barriers," said Kataro Mochizuki, leader of the Kenseikai Party (opposition) in the Lower House, speaking in favor of Russo-Japanese commercial relations. In spite of the fact that Mochizuki's resolution did not ask for recognition of the Soviet State, the question was shelved by the Seiyukai Party (majority) , who have always shown hostility to the Bolsheviki.

The need for resumption of trade between Russia and Japan is one of Japan's most pressing problems. The Government on the one hand is desirous of obtaining commercial interest in Siberia, and on the other it fears contamination from Soviet political ideas.