Chapter 320: Special Envoy for Economic Guidance of Japan

After a round of golf with Major General Williams, Hardy traveled to Washington to meet President Johnson. Despite Johnson's busy schedule, he arranged a special dinner at the White House for Hardy, followed by a lengthy discussion in his office.

"Hardy, I hear you've been making significant investments in Hong Kong. Is that what you want to discuss?" Johnson asked.

Hardy shook his head. "No, I want to talk about Japan."

Johnson looked surprised. He had expected Hardy to focus on his Hong Kong investments, not Japan.

"What's the issue with Japan?" Johnson asked.

"On my way back from Hong Kong, I stopped in Japan and reviewed some information. Despite the Dodge Plan curbing inflation, the Japanese economy has deteriorated significantly," Hardy explained.

Johnson smiled slightly. "Our policy towards Japan involves a high level of political, economic, and military control. It's in our best interest."

Hardy responded, "I'm not here to advocate for Japan. I fought against them and have no fondness for them. What I propose is a more strategic approach to managing their economy, rather than merely controlling and suppressing it."

"What are you suggesting?" Johnson asked.

"Drawing from the Marshall Plan, I think we could implement an economic strategy in Japan to acquire and control their industries. This would ensure that local companies are suppressed, keeping their economy under our influence. Even if Japan recovers, it won't become a significant threat," Hardy proposed.

"Do you think this is feasible?" Johnson asked.

"It's not something the Hardy Group or the California Consortium can handle alone. I plan to approach Rockefeller, Morgan, and other major consortia to collaborate. With their combined resources, we can effectively control Japan's economy," Hardy said.

"Do you need an inspection group?" Johnson inquired.

"Yes, I intend to set up a Japanese economic investigation mission, but I need your approval. Given Japan's status as a defeated nation, government authorization is necessary for such substantial investments," Hardy explained.

Johnson considered this. "Hardy, your proposal aligns with our policy on Japan. I suggest naming the delegation the 'Economic Guidance Group' rather than an 'inspection group'."

"Why the change?" Hardy asked.

"The government has stopped providing economic assistance to Japan. The Japanese government has made many requests for continued aid, which we have declined. Your proposal for economic control can manage their economy while helping them become self-sufficient," Johnson explained.

"An economic investigation mission implies a purely investment-focused role. An 'Economic Guidance Mission' has a semi-official status. I can appoint you as the 'Special Envoy for Economic Guidance for Japan,' which will facilitate your efforts," Johnson said.

Hardy understood immediately. As the Special Envoy for Economic Guidance for Japan, he would have significant influence over Japan's economy. While not as powerful as General MacArthur's military governance, this role was still substantial.

Hardy was thrilled. The rewards for his support of Johnson were becoming clear. The official title would give him more leverage in Japan.

Johnson was relatively indifferent to Japan. The country was defeated and its power diminished. The U.S. had imposed severe restrictions, leaving Japan significantly weakened.

"Mr. President, there's one more thing I'd like to discuss," Hardy said.

"What is it?" Johnson asked.

"Post-war regulations led to the confiscation of many Japanese military enterprises, including factories and machinery. Many of these assets remain unused. Does the government plan to sell them?" Hardy asked.

Johnson smiled. "If you're interested, you can purchase them. There are quite a few available."

"Some of the equipment may be outdated, so a lower price would be acceptable," Hardy suggested.

Johnson chuckled. "As Japan's economic envoy, you can handle the sale of these assets as part of your responsibilities."

Their conversation continued late into the evening, covering many details before Hardy finally left.

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The next day, the Washington Post reported: "In response to Japan's severe economic crisis and numerous requests from the Japanese government, President Johnson is preparing to establish a 'Japan Economic Guidance Group' to address economic issues."

"President Johnson has appointed Mr. Jon Hardy, Chairman of the Hardy Group, as the Special Economic Guidance Envoy for Japan."

The President of the United States can directly appoint officials, including special envoys. Such roles are significant and typically involve direct presidential appointments.

Many Americans were indifferent to Japan, viewing it as a defeated country struggling to recover from the war. Few understood the implications of Hardy's new role.

In San Francisco, Giannini Manor, Janini read the newspaper report and was surprised. He knew Hardy was pursuing an economic investigation group, but the special envoy position was unexpected. It seemed a more influential role than an inspection group.

Giannini smiled, recognizing the benefits of supporting politicians. "Ring, ring!" The phone rang.

A partner from the California Consortium was calling to ask if Janini was aware of Hardy's new role.

Giannini replied, "Before Hardy went to Washington, he visited me. He anticipated Japan's future development and planned to invest accordingly."

"I've agreed to support him. Before he goes to Japan, he'll contact everyone. If any company in the consortium is interested in investing in Japan, they can join in," Janini said.

The partner inquired, "Is there money to be made in Japan?"

"Hardy believes there are opportunities," Janini replied.

The partner considered this and said, "Hardy's investments often seem unconventional but have been successful. I trust his judgment."

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David Rockefeller also saw Hardy's appointment in the newspaper. Having just returned to New York from Europe, David was intrigued by Hardy's new role.

He called the Hardy Group in Los Angeles to connect with Hardy, seeking his views on Hong Kong and Japan. The Hardy Group quickly arranged for Hardy to return his call.

On the phone, Hardy greeted David, "David, what can I do for you?"

"I wanted to discuss your recent investments in Hong Kong. Given the current situation, I'm concerned about potential losses. Also, I saw that you've been appointed as Japan's Special Economic Guidance Envoy. What's going on?" David asked.

"I'm heading to New York soon. We can discuss everything in detail when we meet," Hardy replied.

"Looking forward to it. I'll wait for your visit," David said.

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Meanwhile, the Japanese ambassador was route to Hardy's hotel in Washington. The embassy had received notification of Hardy's appointment and was preparing for his arrival in Japan.

With Japan's economy on the brink of collapse and the U.S. government showing little interest in providing further assistance, the appointment of a Special Economic Envoy was seen as a glimmer of hope. The ambassador understood Hardy's significance and was prepared to meet him with the utmost respect.

Hardy welcomed the ambassador, ready to discuss the details of his new role and future plans.