893.00/3–3149: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 31—8:54 a. m.]
680. From what we have been able to learn of visit of Chen Cheng to Nanking last week it appears he came to study the situation under Li Tsung-jen and to come to terms with his old enemy Ho Ying-chin. Theoretically, at least, new Premier could remove him from governorship Taiwan. Chen also hoped win over some members of increasingly powerful Legislative Yuan. In general, it would appear his purpose was political fence-mending under new regime, and that he departed moderately satisfied.
Reported Chen has no faith in negotiations for peace and believes CCP inexorably determined to support world revolution. He is reported to have announced here that if peace talks fail he would declare independence of Taiwan. Many practical difficulties in such course, as gas for Air Force and Navy without American backing, were, we were informed, pointed out to him. Contrary to earlier impressions, appears from Chen’s Nanking visit that he likes his job, believes he is performing ably as Governor and has no desire to relinquish it.
Sent Department 680, repeated Taipei 30.