894A.00/11–1049: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Strong) to the Secretary of State
[Received 11:04 a. m.]
Cantel 1270. Conversation with Foreign Minister39 November 7, reported Cantel 1268, November 9, 4 p. m.,40 repeated Taipei 209, tends confirm our thought, incompletely expressed in final sentence Cantel 1258, November 4, that President Li and his group may well not be displeased at US position regarding Taiwan. Li unquestionably believes main effort must be on continent and that Chinese Government will have no meaning when leaves mainland.
Refusal of US Government to underwrite Taiwan for Gimo will doubtless be used as lever in attempt change Gimo concept of Taiwan as site of last stand. It may be speculated that Yeh as man acceptable to both groups and with wide experience in foreign affairs will fire the first of several heavy guns on behalf of “continental” group in a campaign to force Gimo agree make retention of southwest the major effort. Li also doubtless feels that if arms stockpile and treasury are moved to mainland he will have much greater influence in their utilization. Trained and equipped troops on Taiwan are badly needed as well this area. Seems highly doubtful Gimo will change his views.
Sent Department Cantel 1270, Department pass Taipei 211.
- George K. C. Yeh.↩
- Vol. viii, “Political and military situation in China”, chapter VIII.↩