893.00/7–1448: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 14—8:40 a. m.]
1293. As has been reported, on basis available information, we believe KmtRC will move set up provisional government in very near future and that this government may well have some degree permanence and stability particularly if northern military leaders take similar action.
In interest of setting pattern our future relations with KmtRC Provisional Government and attempting influence its course of action, we believe it highly desirable have conversation with Marshal Li prior to his departure from Hong Kong in which we would suggest to him certain statements he might issue when new government announced.
Marshal Li will undoubtedly attempt rally popular support by program end civil war, call PCC and establish coalition government including Communists. As we have said, we are convinced his intention take this line of action and of support it will attract. However, Marshal Li is probably basically opposed to Communist domination China and is willing take risks involved in coalition to put self in power and to reorganize and regroup Kmt resources for more effective fight against Communists than that of present Government.
While we would have no hope of persuading him change this course action, we feel that it would be useful if we could persuade him to issue statement in early stages establishment his provisional government which would specify clear and basic antithesis between his aims and those of Communists. We would urge him to state that peace is [Page 359] an essential prerequisite to the establishment of a free, independent and prosperous China and that to this end his Government welcomes assistance of all groups and individuals in China who are willing to put their country above self-interest or interests of any foreign power. It is our feeling that if Marshal Li were to make some such statement as this, it would serve to convince many of his essentially anti-Communist pre-disposition who would otherwise brand him as pro-Communist for his advocacy of an end to civil war. This, of course, would permit us to encourage him, as situation required, in any opposition to Communists that he might undertake.
It is our feeling that Marshal Li should be approached in this matter by an officer from Embassy who would deliver communication orally and who would advance argument of a desirability on part of KmtRC for maintaining good public relations with US.
Since it is believed that Marshal intends to move possibly within next few days, Department’s reaction to our suggestions are requested urgently.