893.00/10–1746
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 17—12:45 a.m.]
1677. Statement by Gmo, released at 10 p.m. October 16 follows:
“In my October 10 broadcast74 to the nation, I stated that the Government has always adhered to the political solution of our domestic political problem and would not give up this policy of peaceful settlement under whatever circumstances. I further stated that the cessation of hostilities had also been the consistent policy of the Government.
The Chinese Communists rejected the recent proposal of October 2 by the Government and later also turned down the truce proposals from General Marshall and Ambassador Stuart, and the Government, nevertheless, is not going to abandon its policy of ‘peaceful settlement’ and will still seek for a settlement by mediation and consultation. The present political and military situation in the country must not be allowed to continue and thus intensify the suffering of the people. But, as the responsible head of the Government of China, I must see that the necessary measures are taken to safeguard the peace and security of the nation, since we are dealing with a political party which maintains a large army to support its political policies.
[Page 378]In view of the new development of the situation, the earnest desire for peace by the whole nation and the hope for an early cessation of hostilities as expressed by the various parties and non-partisans in the last few days, I now reiterate the Government’s sincerity in finding a peaceful solution and propose the following concrete and practical procedure, upon the Communist agreement of which, the Government is prepared to act and secure an immediate cessation of hostilities:”
[Here follows text of plan of procedure set forth in memorandum of October 17 by Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek to General Marshall, printed on page 380.]