Foreign Relations of the United States, 1955–1957, China, Volume III

255. Memorandum of a Conversation, Department of State, Washington, May 24, 1957¹

Washington, May 24, 1957

SUBJECT

• Anti-American Riot in Taipei

PARTICIPANTS:

• Ambassador Hollington Tong, Chinese Ambassador
• Mr. Robertson, Assistant Secretary, FE
• Mr. McConaughy, Director, CA
• Mr. Henderson, FE/P

Amb. Tong called at his own request at 11:30 AM. He said that he came on instructions of his Government to express its profound regret at the unfortunate incident which had just occurred in Taipei. The Chinese Government deplored the mob action which had resulted in damage to American Embassy property and injuries to employees of the American Government.

He said that the Chinese Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs had telephoned him twice on the matter, at 6:30 AM and 9:15 AM. He said he had been instructed to convey the regrets of the Chinese Government to the Department at the earliest possible moment. He had been given the text of the message he was to deliver by telephone. He said that he had had the message typed for the Department’s convenience and would leave it with Mr. Robertson (copy attached²).

The Ambassador said that he wanted to add his own personal assurances of regret and sorrow at the occurrence. It was most unfortunate and he deplored it very sincerely. He expressed the hope and belief that the situation had now been brought under control.

Mr. Robertson said the American Government was deeply disturbed and shocked at this destructive outbreak of mob violence. No one could tell yet how far-reaching the consequences would be but it was an exceedingly unfortunate business which was bound to have harmful repercussions. It could not have come at a worse time. Mr. Robertson read to the Ambassador excerpts from Ambassador Rankin’s unnumbered and unclassified Niact telegram of May 24³ received at 10:52 AM. Mr. Robertson commented on the apparent negligence of the Chinese police in failing to control and disperse the mob when it became threatening. He noted that Amb. Rankin had already put on record the protest of the U.S. Government at the failure of the Chinese Government to extend protection, and that Amb. Rankin had reserved our right to full indemnification for losses sustained.

Mr. Robertson said he was aware that Amb. Tong deplored the occurence and the unhappy consequences that could be anticipated, just as we did.

Mr. Robertson said that the Ambassador might encounter the press when he left the Department and might want to be prepared with some sort of a statement.

Amb. Tong said he would welcome an opportunity to express to the correspondents his deep regret and that of his Government, along with assurances that steps were being taken to meet the situation.

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/5–2457. Official Use Only. Drafted by McConaughy.
2. The message, in which the Chinese Government expressed regret and offered assurances of compensation and future protection, is attached but not printed.
3. Document 253.