Capítulo 336: Chapter 336: Welcome Hardy's Special Envoy to Japan
MacArthur sent a telegram to the White House, which was relayed to President Johnson. In the telegram, MacArthur voiced his opposition to selling seized Japanese assets at a low price, arguing it would foster hostility among the Japanese people and suggesting a more flexible approach.
Johnson read the telegram and remarked lightly, "MacArthur can't stop this, and neither can I."
He understood the situation well.
This time, Hardy had brought together seven major consortia, and the price list they had agreed upon was a result of their discussions.
Johnson knew the influence of these consortia and was confident that the proposal would easily pass in Congress without resistance.
Johnson himself wouldn't oppose it, as he saw it as an opportunity to use the issue to push for his limited medical insurance plan.
Johnson had proposed this plan during his campaign but faced resistance from Hardy, who suggested a more limited approach that was deemed excessive. After his re-election, Johnson proposed the limited medical insurance plan to Congress again, with funding from the federal government, local governments, and the public.
Despite these efforts, the proposal had previously failed in a vote.
With the Republican Party holding a majority in Congress, Johnson anticipated significant resistance to many of his policies. Often, opposition came merely for the sake of opposing, reflecting a broader political strategy.
When Hardy presented the Japanese asset price list, Johnson saw a chance. He proposed to Hardy that the seven consortia use their influence to persuade Congress to pass the limited medical insurance plan.
In essence, Johnson was exchanging the Japanese assets for the consortia's support in promoting his plan.
Hardy discussed this with the consortia, who decided to leverage their relationships to sway Congress, making it a straightforward trade of benefits.
The assets were seized, and the Republicans were set to benefit, with the consortia ensuring their influence over the process.
Johnson knew that despite his position as president, he could not compete with the power of capital.
Reflecting on a remark Hardy once made about politics being an art of competition and compromise, Johnson understood the reality of his situation.
When the U.S. Congress passed the proposal to sell Japanese assets, the news quickly reached Japan. Prime Minister Yoshida and his cabinet were disheartened, feeling powerless against the gradual erosion of their economy.
Despite their efforts to resist, the fate seemed sealed. Yoshida acknowledged this as only the beginning and prepared for further guidance from the special economic envoy on other Japanese companies.
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister voiced their concerns about the dire state of Japanese businesses facing layoffs and severe financial struggles.
Assets were being plundered, causing significant distress and humiliation, with no immediate solutions in sight. The Japanese cabinet members shared a resigned silence, acknowledging the grim reality.
Hardy, now Japan's economic envoy, was preparing to manage and allocate the funds from the asset sales. He convened the consortia to finalize the division of assets. Companies were strategically registered in the Cayman Islands to facilitate their acquisition of Japanese companies.
With the funds totaling $570 million, Hardy negotiated with the U.S. government to use this money for Japanese aid and economic recovery. This request was granted, and Hardy was pleased, believing it would enhance his standing in Japan.
On August 15, the economic guidance team arrived in Japan. Hardy had chosen this date randomly based on convenience and travel considerations.
The Japanese Prime Minister, cabinet members, and other dignitaries greeted Hardy at Haneda Airport. They understood the significance of the funds and were eager to make a favorable impression.
Despite the presence of numerous reporters and business owners hoping for investment, MacArthur, as the Allied Commander, showed no interest in meeting Hardy.
Two large planes approached the airport, identified as B-29 bombers, evoking memories of World War II bombings. The sight of these planes caused some apprehension among the Japanese onlookers.
The planes landed, and Hardy, accompanied by consortia members, disembarked. Prime Minister Shigeru Yoshida and his cabinet members greeted Hardy with deep bows, and the reporters captured the moment.
The next day's headlines were already anticipated: "Japan's Economic Emperor Jon Hardy Arrives in Japan – What Will be the Impact on Japan's Economy and Finance?"
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