Sir:
I have the honour to inform you that the Provinces of Fengtien, Kirin, Heilungkiang and Jehol, the Tungsheng Special District and Mongolian Mengs (Leagues) under several Banners have united themselves to establish an independent government severing their relations with the Republic of China and have created "Man-Chu-Kuo" (State of Manchuria) on March 1, 1932.
It must be known to you that the old military authorities, headed by Chang Hsueh-liang, that administered the North-eastern Provinces, sought only their self-interest and failed to give adequate consideration of the welfare of the people; further, that the entire populace was subjected to extreme sufferings through outrageous exactions resulting from the corrupt discipline in official circles; and that the relations with foreign nations were greatly impaired through the enforcement of anti-foreign policies. Furthermore, in China proper there is to be found no unified and stable government, due to constant factional strife of murderous nature among various military leaders of their own race, and not a day of peace is to be seen by the people at large.
Thereupon, the people of Manchuria, at the opportune time when the old military power was overthrown, established a new State with unity of endeavour and a single purpose.
The Government of Manchuria proposes to perfect the institution of laws and to establish security for the life of the people and to exert all possible power for the promotion of their happiness and peace.
As regards the relations with foreign nations, it has been definitely decided that diplomatic intercourse shall conform to the several principles hereinafter stated:
1. That the Government shall conduct the affairs of the State according to the primary principle of faith and confidence and the spirit of harmony and friendship, and
pledges itself to maintain and promote international peace.
2. That the Government shall respect international justice in accordance with international laws and conventions.
3. That the Government shall succeed to those obligations incurred by the Republic of China by virtue of treaty stipulations with foreign countries in the light of the internal laws and conventions and that these obligations shall be faithfully discharged.
4. That the Government shall not infringe upon the acquired rights of the peoples of foreign countries within the limits of the State of Manchuria, and further that their persons and properties shall be given full protection.
5. That the Government welcomes the entry of the peoples of foreign nations into, and their residence in, Manchuria and that all races shall be accorded equal and equitable treatment.
6. That trade and commerce with foreign countries shall be facilitated thus contributing to the development of world economy.
7. That with regard to the economic activities of the peoples of foreign nations within the State of Manchuria, the principle of the Open Door shall be observed.
It is the earnest desire of this Government that your Government will fully understand the purport of the establishment of the State of Manchuria hereinbefore stated and that formal diplomatic relations be established between your Government and the State of Manchuria.
With the assurances of my highest esteem and distinguished consideration.
Respectfully,
(Signature)
Hsieh Chieh-shih
Minister for Foreign Affairs.
March Twelfth, First Year of Tatung.