893.032/5–2347: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 23—8:34 a.m.]
1121. Following is a translation of the full text of President Chiang Kai-shek’s speech at the opening meeting of the third plenary session of the fourth People’s Political Council held in Nanking on May 20, 1947:
[Here follows survey of developments since 1945.]
“The reorganized government still adheres to the policy of resolving the Communist problem by political means. But whether peace and unity can materialize depends entirely on the attitude of the Communist Party. What we ask of the Communists is merely to abandon their attempt to seize power by armed force, to halt their military operations and to abide by the agreement for the restoration of nationwide communications. If the Communists will show their sincerity by deeds, the Government, desirous of peace, is ready to seek a solution of the situation politically in order to relieve the people of suffering. I believe this policy is in conformity with the wish of the entire nation and has the support of this Council. I wish to make this clear first of all.
“The absence of peace and unity denies the necessary conditions for peaceful national reconstruction. Rehabilitation and relief have therefore run into formidable obstacles everywhere. The people have been exposed to the pressure resultant from a disturbed social order. Consequently, national economy and living conditions in the country have failed to attain stability and social order and public morality have been gravely affected. These factors have thus far retarded China’s return to normalcy.
“It is the duty and determination of the Government to overcome all obstacles and effect all necessary reforms. [”]
[Here follows discussion of program for action.]