893.00/9–149: Telegram
The Counselor of Embassy in China (Jones) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 1—7:38 a. m.]
1976. In conversation with Indian Ambassador, latter undertook explain attitude South Asian countries toward Communist revolution in China with particular reference recognition anticipated Communist central government. Panikkar said that quite aside from ideological aspects of communism or acceptability of Chinese Communist standards of democracy, successful revolution of CCP had made profound impression on Asiatic peoples and was changing face of Asia whether we liked it or not. Mao Tse-tung and Chinese Communists, he said, have tremendous prestige among people of Asia not because they are Communists but because of their success in establishing a new order and in defying West. Consequently any responsible government in southern Asia, which already and in every case (with possible exception of Philippines) is on defense in its own country for pro-western ties, must be very careful not to assume open hostile attitude toward new Chinese government born of latest phase of Chinese revolution. It is this attitude which explains tepid response to latest Philippine suggestion for South Asian Union. It is this attitude which will condition South Asian governments’ policy of recognition [Page 71] of Communist China regime. Panikkar pointed out that India and Southeast Asian countries have no vested interests, no prior treaties, which might obstruct path to early recognition. They are free to start from scratch with new Chinese government.
Panikkar agreed that it would be impolitic for any non-Communist government to appear anxious to recognize new regime or to make first step in that direction. He said that he had no intention of traveling to Peiping after formation of government but that he would be available in Nanking for any first approach Communists might wish to make. He added that he was sure his government did not wish to take any steps along road to recognition which would embarass or compromise British Commonwealth. Nevertheless I received definite impression that, if Panikkar’s recommendations govern, India will establish relations with Communist China shortly after Central Government established Peiping.
Sent Department; repeated EmbOff Canton 812, New Delhi 10.