Document No. 2400 A Page 2 MEASURES FOR BRITISH BURMA (1) PURPOSE p.1 The purpose is to free Burma, as a part of the Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere, from the fetters of British imperialism as soon as possible to make it an independent state composed of the Burmese people, and to admit it into membership of the East Asia Co-operative body. (2) EXECUTION The following two plans are the practical plans conceivable at this time: (A) The purpose is to be achieved by occupying Singapore at a favorable opportunity during the progress of German’s operations against England, and then by taking some proper means (use force if circumstances require it). (B) Independence is to be given impetus by pushing forward the reduction of Yunnan and showing every sign of intending to move into Burma via Chiang Kai-shek’s supply route. (3) REASONS (A) To free the Burmese people from British domination, place them under our guidance, and permit them to cooperate with the peoples of Japan, Manchukuo, China, French Indo-China, Thailand, etc., in p.2 the system of the New Order in East Asia as a part of the Greater East Asia Co-prosperity Sphere, is the way to develop and manifest the spirit and ideal of Japan’s foundation by taking advantage of the present affair. (B) Since the First European War, the Burmese people have gradually waked up politically and have developed strong aspirations to free themselves from the yoke of Britain and to establish an independent state. Numerous political organizations were born, and the movement has been continued, although there have been ups and downs. Taking advantage of the development of the present European War as a grand opportunity, there is now a tendency to bring about a movement to achieve their long-cherished hope with Japan’s assistance. (C) If Japan should look on with folded arms on this occasion, we would in all probability miss the chance to embrace the Burmese in the Greater East Asia Co-prosperity Sphere. Not only that, there is the possible danger of placing them under the influence of Germany, Italy, or the United States.