On the occasion of the conclusion of the Three-Power Pact between Japan, Germany and Italy, an Imperial Rescript has been issued, setting forth clearly the aims of our Empire and pointing out the path which our nation should follow. I am greatly moved by the boundless benevolence of our Sovereign.
To maintain world peace and to insure the stability of East Asia is indeed the immutable national policy of Japan, firmly rooted in the principles on which our Empire was founded.
With the outbreak of war in Europe last autumn, conflict and confusion have spread increasingly over the world. It is an urgent necessity of this moment to devise measures for the cessation of the disturbances and the restoration of peace. Germany and Italy share with our Empire in the same ideals and aspirations. Accordingly, with a view to joining hands with these Powers to establish a new order in the respective regions, and furthermore to cooperating with them toward the restoration of world peace, Japan has now concluded a Three-Power Pact. The time has come for our nation to proceed with fresh resolve to construct a new order in Greater East Asia.
However, to carry out fully the conviction of our country and to enable all nations to find each its proper place is indeed a difficult task. The goal lies far ahead. We must expect to encounter numerous obstacles as we go on.
I confidently hope that, in obedience to the Imperial will, our people, in order to surmount the present emergency, will make clear the concept of national polity, unite heart and soul, and overcome any and every obstacle, thereby setting at ease the august mind of our Sovereign.