893.01/896: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Gauss) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 2—6:30 p.m.]
271. Chinese Foreign Office has just supplied Embassy with following text of statement by Chinese Minister for Foreign Affairs released at 8 p.m.:
“The recognition of the puppet régime at Nanking by the German and Italian Governments amounts to the extension of their aggressive policy to the Far East and proves beyond doubt that these countries have unreservedly cast in their lot with China’s enemy, knowing as they do that the Nanking puppet régime is but a creature of the Japanese militarists. The Nazi Government of Germany and the Fascist Government of Italy in according recognition thereof have committed a gross injustice to China and have thereby forfeited any claim to the friendship of the Chinese Government and people. The step thus taken by these Axis powers has made it abundantly clear that the forces of aggression have been further consolidated into one bloc bent on the destruction of human freedom and civilization. It is, however, gratifying to note that these evil forces are being heroically and resolutely opposed and resisted by a group of powers who having steadily increased in number and in strength are drawn ever closer by their love of peace and freedom in face of the common menace. China is proud of her record and role in this anti-aggression crusade. Despite unprecedented dealings China is determined to continue the struggle in close cooperation with her friends till our common cause is vindicated. In pursuance of the official declarations repeatedly made on previous occasions the Chinese Government now declares that China’s diplomatic relations with Germany and Italy are hereby severed.”
Sent to the Department, repeated to Shanghai, Peiping. Shanghai please air mail to Tokyo.