761.93/8–1445: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Harriman) to President Truman and the Secretary of State
[Received August 14—8:02 p.m.]
141845. Molotov asked me to call this afternoon. He explained in general terms the agreements reached with the Chinese which confirmed what Soong had told me as reported in preceding telegrams. It seems however that only the railroad to Dairen, and not the roads, is specifically excluded from military control. Soong has confirmed this but considers it is not important.
Molotov and Soong have told me that the agreements would not be published until they have been ratified by the Chinese Government which should take place in 10 or 12 days.
I sought his opinion as to the future relationship between the National Government and the Chinese Communists. He replied that the National Government should meet the Communists half way and deal with the question on a democratic basis. He said that the Soviet Government was anxious to see a united China and avoidance of civil strife.
[Page 974]I inquired as to the present status of the proposed statement on the Open Door policy22 which [I] had left with Stalin on August 8 (Navy cable 08233022a). Molotov stated that the Soviet Government considered that “the agreements with the Chinese had disposed of the statement since all outstanding Chinese questions had been settled”. He added that Stalin did not believe that there was now any need for the statement especially as he had given his assurances that the Open Door policy would be maintained. I explained at some length that the President, although satisfied with Stalin’s verbal assurances, was anxious to have a written statement to this effect which could be published since he felt sure that there would be public discussion and speculation regarding Soviet attitude on this matter. Such a statement would allay speculation and adverse comment which would be in our mutual interests. Molotov maintained however that there was no need for a statement since: (1) the agreements would make it clear that no restrictions would be imposed on foreign commerce, (2) Soviet policy as orally set forth by Stalin would remain unchanged, and (3) no such statement had been foreseen at Yalta. I suggested that we either work out a formula covering an exchange of notes on the question or that I write a letter to him reiterating Stalin’s verbal assurances to which the Soviet Government could reply.
I requested Molotov to inform Stalin of my Government’s views on this matter, which he said he would do. In view of the strong stand taken by Molotov I doubt whether we will be able to obtain the written assurance unless strong pressure is exercised. I request instructions.