In the name of my Government I have the honour to make the following declaration to the Chinese Government:—
"When, after the termination of the present war, the leased territory of Kiaochow Bay is completely left to the free disposal of Japan, the Japanese Government will restore the said leased territory to China under the following conditions:—
"1. The whole of Kiaochow Bay to be opened as a Commercial Port.
"2. A concession under the exclusive jurisdiction of Japan to be established at a place designated by the Japanese Government.
"3. If the foreign Powers desire it, an international concession may be established.
"4. As regards the disposal to be made of the buildings and properties of Germany and the conditions and procedure relating thereto, the Japanese Government and the Chinese Government shall arrange the matter by mutual agreement before the restoration."
I avail, etc.,
(Signed) HIOKI EKI.
His Excellency,
Lou Tseng-tsiang,
Minister of Foreign Affairs.
—Reply—