124.936/12–1748: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in China (Stuart)
1852. In view present uncertainties China and possible later interruption communications Dept believes useful this time outline its [Page 659] views re position of Emb event ChiGovt falls or successor regime established Nanking.
First efforts Emb after assuring safety personnel and property should be continuance or reestablishment communications with Dept and other China posts. In this connection views Embtel 2219 Nov 1544 considered generally applicable.
In event Communists attempt form coalition Govt considerable political jockeying may occur. Dept considers such coalition strictly Chinese responsibility and desires no responsibility whatsoever be attributed this Govt for formation of it, for its composition or for basis upon which it is formed. Emb should accordingly participate in no way either formally or otherwise in discussions or maneuvers leading thereto. Dept does not desire this Govt be placed in position underwriting in any way such coalition or any fraction or group participating therein. Foregoing is reiteration of US Govts position as reviewed in Depts Top Secret instruction no. 230 Nov 13 and previous related communications.
It is possible revolutionary Communist Govt or coalition Govt will be established in which case question recognition would arise. On other hand coalition might arise which claims be legal successor present ChiGovt, We would be free accept this claim and continue present relations or reject it depending upon circumstances. In case either foregoing contingency arises, Emb should report all relevant factors to Dept, including political complexion, composition and mode formation of regime; Emb’s evaluation measure public support for regime, its probable stability, maintenance of order and probable ability and willingness honor China’s international obligations, including existing Chinese treaty and other commitments and protection American and other foreign nationals and property. Emb should await Dept’s instructions re recognition. Meanwhile Emb should exercise every caution avoid any step which might be considered as leading or tantamount to recognition. Emb should refrain from visaing passports issued by new regime, from addressing any formal communication to its officers in such official capacity as they may purport to hold and from taking any other step which might constitute or be interpreted as constituting recognition. Dept realizes that certain informal contact as practical matter will be necessary, but care should be exercised that it not be subject to misinterpretation.