Foreign Relations of the United States, 1949, The Far East: China, Volume IX

893.801/9–449: Telegram

The Chargé in China (Strong) to the Secretary of State

Canton, September 4, 1949—noon.
[Received September 4—1:29 a. m.]

Cantel 1070. American Mail Line local agents state wishes Washington mail enter Tsingtao. Vessel due Hong Kong about September 6.

US AstALUSNA⁶⁷ here states ComNavWesPac⁶⁸ in past has opposed efforts US vessels enter closed ports on grounds of serious hazard. He stated national blockade of Tsingtao was undoubtedly effective. Mail line desires information whether American vessels have called at Tsingtao since port was closed and if so desire know whether without incident.

Embassy does not have this information and, in view possibly somewhat divergent views between Navy Department and State Department on attitude towards closure, request Department instruct method and content reply to company.

Strong

67. Assistant Naval Attaché in China.
68. Commander, U.S. Naval Forces in Western Pacific (Badger).