893.01/960: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Atcheson) to the Secretary of State
[Received 3:52 p.m.]
1693. Chiang’s address (Embassy’s 1692, September 12) is noteworthy for its lack of any direct reference to or emphasis upon need of increasing China’s war effort and indeed its almost complete lack of mention of war against Japan; for its heavy emphasis on national reconstruction as the principal problem facing China; for its unreal and almost fantastic optimism in regard to economic situation; and for its failure to make any reference to Communist problem.
Chiang’s reference to constitutional government and democratic rights carries with it significant qualifications. He refers to the “promulgation of Constitution in accordance with China’s circumstantial requirements.” He also states that after the promulgation of constitutional government the Kmt should have equal status with other parties under the “principles of the freedom of assembly, organization, speech and publication in accordance with law”. (It is understood that session has decided that “constitutional government” will be “enforced” 1 year after termination of war.)
[Page 333]Chiang is understood to have strongly denounced the Communists during one session of CEC.