140. Telegram 633 to Geneva1
633. For Johnson.
Comparison Wang redraft (your 617) with text our 599 indicates following substantial changes: 1) In first paragraph “repatriation of civilians” changed to “return of nationals.” 2) Unilateral announcements are couched in terms of an agreement. 3) India is “entrusted” to assist return, and in paying expenses Indian Government is to act “on behalf of the Government of the PRC,” thus connoting idea of a protecting power instead of a third party designated by US primarily to confirm that its statement regarding freedom to return is in fact true. 4) Indian Government is authorized to “make investigation of the facts,” the words “in any such case” being dropped. Effect of this would be permit Indian Government investigate entire matter, presumably all Chinese in US, and not merely those requesting assistance.
These changes appear to indicate 1) intent to convert announcements into an agreement, 2) to have it apply to all Chinese in US and to describe them as nationals of PRC, 3) to give India right to investigate [Typeset Page 178] generally and not simply those Chinese who appeal to it, and 4) to establish India as a protecting power. Above objections are in addition to unresolved question of time limit for release of Americans.
[Facsimile Page 2]Amendments proposed by Wang make his draft entirely unacceptable for reasons indicated above. We believe it preferable that Saturday meeting be postponed until some time next week so as to give us further opportunity study our tactics. You should inform Wang such postponement requested, assigning no repeat no reasons.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/8–2555. Secret; Priority. Drafted by Phleger and Sebald; cleared by McConaughy.↩