893.00/2–149: Telegram
The Ambassador in China ( Stuart ) to the Secretary of State
[Received February 1—9:50 a. m.]
288. Lead article in vernacular press February 1 is Government spokesman’s rebuttal Communist broadcast January 28 in which Communists voiced opposition to acquittal of Okamura,91 demanded arrest so-called war criminals and objected to Government’s attitude toward regional peace for Peiping. Spokesman rejected Communist demand that punishment Okamura be made condition for peace talks, pointing out that this is a judicial case with no bearing whatsoever on peace talks. If Communists keep raising new questions, it will be impossible for two parties ever to bring their viewpoints closer together. As to arresting war criminals, spokesman regarded this as problem to be solved at conference table and said there is no reason to demand execution of any terms before conference even convenes. This will only cause people to doubt that Communists sincerely wish peace. Third Communist charge impossible to answer as no concrete facts given.
[Page 100]Spokesman continued both Government and Communists should realize that peace is unanimous desire of nation’s people. He pointed out Government not unable to fight but unwilling to fight, and warned that Communist military successes during past few months cannot determine final victory of [or] defeat. Government hopes Communists will with highest sincerity hasten early convening of peace conference, spokesman concluded. Moderate tone of Government statement contrasted sharply with sarcastic Communist broadcast to which it was reply.
- Lt Gen. Yasutsugu Okamura, wartime Commander in Chief of Japanese armies in China.↩