761.93/10–249: Telegram

The Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Kirk) to the Secretary of State

2484. Chinese Chargé at 7 p. m. called at Foreign Office in response request and was read brief statement by Gromyko66 in following sense:

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In view establishment People’s Central Government [at] Peking, and in view political, military and economic developments China, Canton regime under Premier Yen Hsi-shan considered local in nature and incapable representing Chinese people in foreign relations. Accordingly, Soviet Government has decided to withdraw its representatives at Canton.

Gromyko handed statement to Chargé. Chargé asked for details status himself and staff, and was told: “We have nothing to add to this statement at this time.” Chargé then asked if he could call at Foreign Office tomorrow for further information, and was given to understand he was at liberty to call on Foreign Office officials. Chargé described Gromyko’s attitude as formal, but not unfriendly.

Information passed Embassy by Chargé with request secret classification. Chargé believes statement will be made public immediately by Foreign Office.

Sent Department 2484, Department pass Hong Kong 3, Nanking 104, Peiping 9 from Moscow.

Kirk
  1. A. A. Gromyko, Soviet Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs.