On June 10, 1936, after Arthur and the two Anglo-French ambassadors held talks throughout the night, Australasia finally announced the next day that it was declaring war on Germany and Italy separately.
For Germany and Italy, this was absolutely a bolt from the blue. Judging by the world's original rankings, the German-Italian Alliance would be directly challenging the world's top three powers, while Britain and France would also gain an extremely powerful logistical support force.
At noon that day, while facing interviews with the European media, Arthur directly answered the question they had asked: Why would Australasia, far away in Oceania, interfere in a European war?
Arthur replied, "I don't believe this is a European war. Look at the countries and regions taking part in it. They span Europe, North America, and Africa. This is another World War sweeping across the globe.
"Furthermore, whether it is to fulfill the last wishes of our grandmother, Queen Victoria, or to honor our alliance treaty with the United Kingdom, we should join this war. We must protect the borders of every nation from invasion and protect every nation's people from the ravages of war."
"But, His Majesty the Emperor. Because of your orders, Australasia is about to face two great powers, Germany and Italy. Even if we ultimately win the war, suffering massive casualties will be unavoidable. Is this really worth it?" The Italian reporter still refused to give up and pressed him.
"Of course it is worth it." Arthur's expression was solemn, and his gaze shone with resolve. After sweeping his eyes across the Australasians gathered around him, he spoke calmly and deliberately, each word distinct: "Australasia does not wish for war, but we have never feared it, either.
"If we wanted peace, Australasia could easily remain a great power detached from