111.11/1–1047: Telegram

The Ambassador in China ( Stuart ) to the Secretary of State

47. Central News Agency release of MOI92 press conference on January 8 was first public reaction to General Marshall’s statement and his designation as Secretary of State. Minister Peng Hsueh-pei93 stated: “General Marshall’s promotion does not mean any change of policy on the part of the Chinese Government,”

Queried as to how the Chinese Government regards General Marshall’s return to the States and whether it means an aggravation of hostilities with the Communists, the Minister said: “We appreciate the efforts General Marshall has put forth for China during the last year and we recognize his achievements as stated by President Truman. [Page 695] The very fact that he has been elevated to the position of US Secretary of State shows the same appreciation on the part of the Americans. As to the second part of the question I don’t see how the two are connected.”

When questioned as to his reaction to General Marshall’s statement [, he stated: “I have read it?] but have not had time to study it carefully. I note many of his ideas are those which he has mentioned to me on previous occasions. I am sure that General Marshall made the statement in a sincere and friendly spirit, and it is in that same spirit that I regard the statement.”

Stuart
  1. Chinese Ministry of Information.
  2. Chinese Minister of Information.