On this auspicious occasion of the signature of the French and Thai Peace Treaty, I wish to say a few words of congratulation.
In accordance with the terms of mediation for the settlement of the Thai-French Indo-China border dispute which was signed on March 11, between the French and Thai delegates and the Japanese mediators, earnest discussions have been held for the past two
months between the delegates of France and Thailand with the object of putting them into the shape of treaty, while Japan has exercised her good offices. We are very glad that the peace treaty between France and Thailand has today been formally signed.
This treaty serves not only to dispel the dark clouds which have hovered between Thailand and French Indo-China for the past half year as well as to restore the friendly relations between those two countries but to insure them for the future. It assuredly marks a new epoch in the French and Thai relations, and, therefore, we wish to express our profound gratification to the two countries. At the time when the whole world is trembling in fear of war, this fact is of great significance.
A fact which I want specially to point out at this occasion is that the documents exchanged between Japan and France and Thailand, respectively, at the time of signature of the terms of mediation have been signed as a formal document. By virtue of this document, Japan has guaranteed the new boundaries and has concluded the understanding concerning the establishment of amicable and good neighbourly relations, the promotion of closer economic relations, and also with reference to political, economic and military relations with respect to Thailand and French Indo-China. The relations between Japan, France and Thailand have been considerably made closer and stronger. Japan deems that the close relations thus strengthened shall never be weakened or overthrown by sinister designs from the outside.
Three and a half months have elapsed since Japan offered her mediation in which the present task of contributing toward peace has been accomplished. I believe that this is due to the fact that the French and Thai delegates, fully understanding the actual situation in East Asia and the world at large, have sincerely conducted the negotiations, and tender to them the expression of appreciation for their efforts.