17.    In 1943 the way may be clear for a re turn to the
Continent, across the Mediterranean, from Turkey into the Balkans, or
by landings in Western Europe. Such operations will be the prelude to
the final assault on Germany itself, and the scope of the victory
program should be such as to provide
means by which they can be carried out.
 
THE SAFEGUARDING OF VITAL INTERESTS IN THE EASTERN THEATRE
 
      18. The security of Australia, New Zealand, and India must be
maintained and the Ohinese war effort supported. Secondly, points of
vantage from which an offensive against Japan can eventually be
developed must be secured. Our immediate object must therefore be to
hold:-
 
a. Hawaii and Alaska.
 
b. Singapore, the East Indies Barrier, and the Philippines. c. Rangoon
and the route to China. 
d. The Maritime PrOvinces of Siberia.
 
               The minimum forces required to hold the above will have
to be a matter of mutual discussion.
 
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