893.00/1–1849: Telegram
The Chargé in the Soviet Union (Kohler) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 18—5:36 a. m.]
123. Soviet press January 18 carries following Foreign Office communiqué:
“On January 8 Minister Foreign Affairs, China, transmitted to Embassy USSR in China memorandum containing request from Chinese Government that Soviet Government act as mediator in peace talks between Chinese Government and Chinese CP. Soviet Ambassador was advised that Chinese Government had made similar proposal to Governments USA, Great Britain and France.
“On January 17 Deputy Minister Foreign Affairs USSR, Comrade Vyshinsky, A. Ya., received Ambassador of China in USSR, Mr. Foo Ping-sheung; and handed him reply Soviet Government in which was pointed out that Soviet Government, unalterably supporting principle non-intervention in internar affairs other countries, does not consider it appropriate take upon itself mediation mentioned in cited memorandum.
“In reply of Soviet Government it is noted that restoration unity China as democratic and peace-loving state is affair of Chinese people itself and that this unity could be attained most quickly by means of direct talks of the parties without foreign interference representing internal forces of China.”
Soviet press January 18 also prints brief Nanking Tass dispatch referring press accounts that Chinese Government requests Britain, US, USSR, France act as mediators and noting reports that Britain and US refused.
Sent Department 123, passed Nanking 9.