124.93/11–1749: Telegram
The Secretary of State to The Chargé in China (Strong), at Chungking
TelCan 762. Department spokesman made following statement noon today result queries over Chungking despatches reporting closure:
“The U.S. Embassy office and the American Consulate in Chungking are being closed in view of the imminence of the Communist threat to that area. The American staff will be evacuated as soon as the situation warrants. The American Consulate at Kunming also is making preliminary plans to close but probably will not determine the exact date for that action pending further developments. The Department authorized the American Consuls at both places to close at their discretion at any time when Communist occupation of those cities was threatened. In this connection, it should be recalled that the Chinese Communists have thus far in areas under their control demonstrated in many cases an inability or unwillingness to afford adequate freedom of movement and have prevented our consular personnel from carrying out their normal duties. It is expected that some of the Chungking staff will begin evacuation from Chungking tomorrow. All Americans in the area were warned several months ago of our contemplated action to close the Consulates when it became necessary. At the same time, the Department informed missionary and business interests of its intentions so that all American citizens in the area could take appropriate action.”