893.00/10–2849: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Strong) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 28—3:07 p. m.]
Cantel 1240. Minister Education Han Li-wu today stated privately President Li Tsung-jen in his recent telegram to Generalissimo, mentioned Cantel 1223, October 24, requested Generalissimo reassume Presidency. Han then said in conferences Taiwan, Generalissimo and his advisors agreed Generalissimo should not reassume that office but, as spiritual leader, should give full measure of support to Li as Chief of State and seek to eliminate existing friction. As evidence Generalissimo’s good intentions this regard, he plans remain Chungking for some time.
In response query as to what effect visit of Generalissimo to Szechwan at this time would have, Han thought result would be beneficial in that there is respect in province for both Generalissimo and Li. He added that desire exists on part of Generalissimo and Li to work in cooperation but a few men around each of them were disruptive influences.
As example of new attitude conciliation on part of Generalissimo, Han said just before recent major victory Chinese Nationalists, Generalissimo ordered removal of Tang En-po as commander and his replacement by General (unnamed) whose troops actually doing fighting. Whether change will occur now that Tang has finally won a victory remains to be seen.
Implications of foregoing, together with current important military and political confabs and projected policy shuffles, seem highly significant. We shall watch closely for any signs that Li and Generalissimo are capable of establishing “a new era of cooperation” as well as for major political and military shifts now supposedly under discussion.