23. Telegram 310 from Geneva1
310. From Johnson. Highlights third meeting follow:
Handed Wang list five names suggested Deptel 359. Made brief comments their list Americans pointing out inter alia Downey and Fecteau civilians not military (Wang subsequently explained listing Downey and Fecteau referred to nature their “crimes” which military). I then discussed Wang’s 4 proposals of last meeting. Re first said seems go beyond terms reference talks, also involves thousands names. Need further time consider. Re second and third proposals handed Wang list 76 names, reiterated assurance all restrictions lifted on return Chinese to mainland, explained no general deadline for departure students but cases dealt with individually and postponements departure granted for good cause. Re fourth proposal said could not yet give reply. Concluded by contrasting present freedom Chinese in US depart and continued detention 40 odd US citizens China.
After 10 minute recess requested by Wang, he again asked complete list Chinese nationals in US, denying this request exceeded terms reference; welcomed receipt list 76 but expressed dissatisfaction lack of info on all Chinese in US, similar that given us on all Americans China; reiterated familiar contention only US citizens detained China guilty crimes who [Facsimile Page 2] dealt with by law, therefore no basis US ill feeling. Also made statement on alleged causes “Chinese ill feeling” toward US. Said will examine individual cases Americans and prepared accord lenient treatment. Welcomed US willingness take time consider his fourth proposal.
I replied briefly Wang’s remarks reserving right reply more fully next meeting which I suggested be postponed to August 8. Wang readily agreed, exhibiting no anxiety force pace talks. Wang stressed his compliance our agreement re press, saying Chinese hoped meetings would settle matters under discussion not become propaganda forum. I affirmed our full adherence press agreement.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.95A251/8–455. Confidential; Priority.↩