Chapter 339: Pull 1 Batch and Hit 1 Batch

Hardy's speech in Japan not only caused a sensation within the country but also garnered significant attention internationally.

**America**

After reading the report in the Global Times, President Johnson smiled and turned to Mike, who was standing next to him. "Hardy went to Japan. It seems like his objectives are quite clear. Do you know what he told me before he left?"

Mike shook his head.

"Hardy said that Japan shouldn't be a burden but also shouldn't become a threat. We can use it as a stepping stone, but we mustn't give it the chance to rise."

"He mentioned that by restricting Japan's industrial capabilities and constantly suppressing it through public opinion, Japan can have money but no real power."

"The first thing he did in Japan was force them to acknowledge their wartime mistakes and mentally subdue them. Hehe, I think he did a great job. In fact, Hardy would make an excellent politician if he were willing."

Mike replied, "Hardy and I discussed Japan. He said we should always be wary of that country. He's fought with the Japanese and witnessed their fanaticism firsthand. Their current obedience is merely a reluctant compromise. If given the chance, their inherent aggression will resurface."

"He also mentioned that if Japan were to rise while the United States fell, the Japanese would certainly seek to retaliate against us. They'll never forget the resentment from the atomic bombings."

Johnson's expression grew colder. He had given the order to drop the bombs, and he suspected that the Japanese harbored a deep resentment towards him personally.

Johnson said gravely, "Therefore, the restrictions must continue, and we must remain vigilant. When I step down from the presidency, I'll make sure to document this in the 'President's Diary' and pass it to my successor."

**Hong Kong**

The Hong Kong Global Times prominently featured Hardy's arrival in Japan as an economic envoy on its front page.

The Japanese Prime Minister, along with all cabinet members and numerous entrepreneurs, came to the airport to welcome Hardy. His delegation was equally impressive, consisting of representatives from the seven major American consortia.

The newspaper highlighted these seven consortia and listed dozens of prominent American companies, collectively controlling assets exceeding $200 billion.

This figure was staggering and hard to fathom for many.

Photographs in the newspaper showed the Japanese Prime Minister bowing to Hardy, who had delivered a speech criticizing Japan for its imperialist and monarchist-driven aggression that led to its current predicament.

The Prime Minister publicly admitted Japan's wartime mistakes for the first time, expressing repentance on behalf of the nation.

The newspaper speculated on the potential changes Hardy might bring as Japan's new "economic czar," following in MacArthur's footsteps.

In Hong Kong, where the Hardy Group had substantial investments, the company was widely recognized. Victor noticed that entrepreneurs treated him with increased respect, which he attributed entirely to Hardy.

**China**

The People's Daily featured the news on its front page.

"Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Yoshida bowed and apologized, acknowledging the mistake of launching the war and expressing repentance on behalf of Japan. This is the first time a Japanese leader has publicly admitted fault."

The report also introduced Hardy, the economic envoy sent by the United States to Japan, making his name well-known across the country.

**Japan**

At the welcome reception held at the Prime Minister's residence, the atmosphere was noticeably subdued compared to the lavish receptions of the British royal family. The event was attended by men, mainly politicians and businessmen.

Among the guest list were prominent names like Mitsubishi, Sumitomo, Mitsui, Toyota, and Honda.

After Prime Minister Shigeru Yoshida's welcome speech, he invited Hardy to speak. Hardy took the stage with a serious demeanor, and the audience immediately felt the weight of his presence.

Previously, Hardy had spoken at the airport with a smile, but he knew he shouldn't be overly friendly to the Japanese, especially now. It was time to be imposing.

"I bring three directives from President Johnson that I hope you will remember," Hardy began, causing a stir in the audience.

"The first is that Japan will not be allowed to engage in military production or research. This is mandated by the Bostan Convention and the United Nations."

"The second is that Japan must achieve self-sufficiency as soon as possible. Assistance is limited. The United States has already provided over $2 billion in aid over the past four years, and this cannot continue indefinitely."

"The third is that Japan's return to the international community is possible, but it must accept transformation across all sectors—political, economic, financial, military, and cultural. Once Japan aligns with the standards of a civilized world, the United States will support its entry into the United Nations."

If these demands had come from another country, they might have been seen as demeaning. However, the Japanese response was notably positive.

Since Japan's surrender at the end of World War II, the U.S. had enforced strict controls and reforms on Japan, which were even harsher than those imposed on Germany.

While Germany was treated with some degree of leniency, Japan was dealt with more ruthlessly, with the aim of eradicating its military potential.

MacArthur had offered no hope, but Hardy's third point gave Japan a glimpse of the future.

A glimmer of hope, however faint, motivated people to strive towards it. Hardy's words were intended to encourage Japan to believe in the possibility of reform and eventual freedom.

Hardy continued, "As I mentioned at the airport, Japan's future development should focus on an 'export-oriented economy,' with an emphasis on supporting civilian production."

"The United States has the largest market in the world and requires numerous products. Japanese companies should aim their efforts at the U.S. market. In summary, produce what the U.S. needs."

"Given that the U.S. military and heavy industries are globally dominant, it's not wise for Japan to pursue these sectors. Instead, Japan should focus on daily necessities and light industries."

"Daily necessities include clothing, footwear, glass, ceramics, furniture, appliances, toys, fishing gear, cameras, film, musical instruments, medicine, cosmetics, and more."

"Light industries encompass auto parts, machine components, electronic parts, precision instruments, construction machinery, factory equipment, and home appliances."

Many understood that Hardy aimed to transform Japan into an industrial base and support factory for the United States.

This was promising news for Japan's consumer goods companies, as their factories were nearly inactive. Restoring these factories could alleviate their current plight.

"You also know that we cannot support every company in Japan. Our plan is to back selected companies while allowing the rest to develop freely."

The entrepreneurs present were anxious. 

Support was desirable, but the prospect of being left out was daunting. Being abandoned meant potential collapse.

The situation was tense, with everyone holding their breath. Being supported meant survival; being excluded could lead to ruin.

Hardy's intent was to instill a sense of urgency. With such pressure, it was easier to maintain control.

For those unwilling to comply, Hardy's strategy was straightforward: support select enterprises and let the rest perish.

Although some recognized Hardy's strategy, there was no way to counteract it. Knowing the scheme didn't change the reality of following it.

The choice was clear: submit or face extinction.

Hardy concluded, "Tomorrow, at the Empire Hotel, the Seven Consortia will begin negotiations with Japanese companies. Companies interested in partnering with the Seven Consortia should bring their corporate reports."

This announcement stirred the big entrepreneurs present. Cooperating with American companies offered a chance at survival, while non-cooperation likely meant closure and bankruptcy.

Some might consider selling to a U.S. consortium, though that option seemed increasingly distant.

Hardy stepped off the podium, and the reception officially began.

In reality, the event was more a gathering for discussing business and economics than a true social reception. The absence of female attendees and the focus on business discussions reflected its nature.

Members of the seven consortia engaged with Japanese entrepreneurs, discussing potential acquisitions and partnerships.

Prime Minister Shigeru Yoshida, accompanying Hardy, raised a glass of red wine in a toast. After sipping the wine, Yoshida respectfully addressed Hardy:

"Special Envoy Hardy, Japan's food supply is currently only sufficient for minimal sustenance. Many are subsisting on potatoes, sweet potatoes, and bran. Could you please discuss with President Johnson the possibility of increasing food aid?"