The ministers of foreign nations, gathered in…

The ministers of foreign nations, gathered in the open harbor of Hyōgo (present day Kobe) in early February, had issued a declaration according to which the Shogunate is still considered the only rightful government in Japan, giving hope to Tokugawa Yoshinobu that foreign nations (especially France) might consider an intervention in his favor.

A few days later, however, an Imperial delegation visits the ministers, declaring that the Shogunate is abolished, that harbors will be open in accordance with International treaties, and that foreigners will be protected.

The ministers finally decide to recognize the new government.