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

893.00/2–1849: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Consul General at Shanghai (Cabot)⁴⁹

Washington, March 10, 1949—5 p. m.

449. While Dept realizes practical problems to which ConGen doubtless refers (Contel 462 Mar 3 to Emb rptd Dept 735 and Contel 399 Feb 18 to Emb rptd Dept 589⁵⁰) Dept believes desirable avoid statements which might be open interpretation legal moral obligation impartiality between sides China exists on part this Govt or its natls. US has openly generously aided Natl Govt and has never recognized belligerency Commie. This position in full accord internatl law and practice.

Dept had understood Chin Govt does not regard present strife China as “civil war”. Emb comment requested whether Sun’s⁵¹ reference civil war (third para Contel 742 Mar 4⁵² press summary to Dept rptd unnumbered Emb) indicates change Chin Govt position this question.

If proposed contribution mentioned reftel not legally enforceable tax, ConGen shld so advise Amer natls and shld advise further that they are obligated pay only taxes officially imposed, as provided art 10 1946 treaty and that any case duress shld be reported ConGen.

Acheson

49. Repeated to the Ambassador in China as No. 322.
50. Latter not printed.
51. Sun Fo, President of the Chinese Executive Yuan (premier).
52. Vol. viii, “Political and military situation in China”, chapter II.