Chapter 337: Rich Is the Father

"Mr. Hardy, on behalf of all the cabinet members, I warmly welcome you to Japan," said Prime Minister Shigeru Yoshida, beaming with respect.

The news of Hardy's visit had generated considerable excitement. It was known that Hardy had managed to persuade the U.S. government to allocate $570 million from the sale of military assets to aid Japan's economic recovery. This significant sum had captured everyone's attention and hope.

The Japanese government, having previously been dissatisfied with how Hardy handled the sale of Japanese assets, now viewed him with newfound respect. The prospect of receiving such a substantial amount of money was seen as a lifeline in Japan's dire economic situation. The funds promised not only to rejuvenate the economy but also to potentially create jobs by revitalizing the seized assets.

"Hello, Prime Minister. Allow me to introduce Mr. John Jay, the Vice President of Manhattan Bank from the Rockefeller Consortium," Hardy said.

"Hello, Mr. John Jay. Welcome to Japan," Prime Minister Yoshida responded, bowing and shaking hands.

The Rockefeller Consortium, known for its significant influence on U.S. politics and economics, commanded respect, and Yoshida was keenly aware of its importance.

"This is Charles Lee, the Vice President of Morgan Stanley Investment Bank from the Morgan Consortium," Hardy continued.

Yoshida bowed again in acknowledgment.

Hardy introduced the representatives from the seven major consortia, each well-known and influential. Their presence in Japan, accompanied by Hardy, underscored the gravity of the situation and their collective power.

Earlier, Hardy had promised to bring an investment team to Japan due to the severe downturn in the economy. The Japanese cabinet had come to view Hardy as genuinely committed to addressing Japan's economic challenges.

"Mr. Hardy, we have prepared a podium over there for you. The reporters are eager to hear from you. Would you mind addressing them?" Prime Minister Yoshida asked.

"Of course," Hardy agreed, stepping up to the podium.

The reporters, camera flashes blazing, captured Hardy's every move. Dressed in a sleek Italian suit, Hardy exuded calm confidence.

He had requested Prime Minister Yoshida to stand beside him, a gesture that Yoshida, though flattered, approached with modesty, standing slightly back.

Hardy glanced at the assembled reporters and began his address.

"Before my arrival, I requested information on Japan's current economic and living conditions. The data reveals that Japan's economy is in turmoil, facing a near-collapse. Many companies have shut down, unemployment is soaring, inflation is rampant, and food shortages are severe."

He turned to Prime Minister Yoshida. "Is this accurate, Prime Minister?"

"Yes, that is indeed the situation," Yoshida replied quickly, despite the awkwardness of the admission.

Hardy continued, his tone solemn. "This crisis is a direct consequence of the war. The conflict, instigated by imperialists and militarists, has left Japan in this dire state."

"Although those responsible for the war have been punished, the legacy of their actions has impacted the Japanese people. President Johnson and I have discussed Japan's situation, and it is clear that for Japan to reintegrate into the international community, it must fully reject imperialist ideologies."

The Japanese audience—Prime Minister Yoshida, cabinet members, reporters, and entrepreneurs—listened intently. The prospect of Japan's reentry into the international community sparked a glimmer of hope, as Japan was still considered an occupied territory.

Hardy's words seemed to offer a beacon of hope. Many in the audience looked at him with a renewed sense of optimism, eager for the chance to regain sovereignty and improve their economic standing.

Turning to Yoshida, Hardy posed a critical question. "Prime Minister, acknowledging the mistakes made during the war is crucial. It's a matter of attitude. Only by confronting these errors can Japan fully sever ties with its imperialist past and regain international recognition."

Shigeru Yoshida grappled with the question. Japan's reluctance to openly admit its wartime mistakes stemmed from its national identity and the legacy of Bushido. Admitting fault could undermine the nation's pride and unity.

Yet, faced with Hardy's pressure and the possibility of further alienation, Yoshida replied with sincerity. "Mr. Hardy, on behalf of Japan, I express our deep regret for the actions taken during the war. We acknowledge our mistakes."

The reporters' cameras clicked furiously, capturing the moment of repentance. The headline was practically written: "Japan's Prime Minister Admits War Mistakes."

Inside, Hardy smiled, knowing this was just the beginning of his strategy to reshape public perception and influence.

He continued, "According to recent surveys, Japan's unemployment rate stands at 13 million, a figure not including women and children. Inflation has driven prices up twentyfold compared to pre-war levels. Economic experts predict it could take a century for Japan to recover if these conditions persist."

The gravity of Hardy's statements weighed heavily on everyone present.

"I am here to devise a comprehensive economic plan for Japan. This plan includes abolishing outdated economic practices, implementing demilitarization reforms, and shifting towards an export-oriented economy," Hardy elaborated.

"For instance, establishing TV manufacturing plants to supply the U.S. and Europe with affordable televisions, developing the textile industry using imported raw materials, and focusing on various other industries such as clothing, auto parts, and electronics."

"I have secured approval from President Johnson to introduce advanced American technology and production equipment to Japan. Although I delayed my visit to understand Japan's problems better, I am now prepared to use external support to aid recovery."

Hardy gestured to the seven consortia representatives. "I invite the California, Rockefeller, Morgan, Cleveland, Texas, DuPont, and Mellon consortia to invest in Japan. Their involvement will streamline construction and sales."

Applause erupted from Prime Minister Yoshida, cabinet members, and the entrepreneurs. The prospect of receiving such vital investment was a welcome development.

"In addition, I plan to use the $570 million from the sale of military-industrial assets for aid and economic development in Japan," Hardy concluded.

The applause grew louder, reflecting the audience's appreciation for the tangible support. The promise of substantial funds had stirred a sense of optimism and gratitude, reinforcing Hardy's influential role in Japan's economic revival.