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

252. Telegram 798 from Geneva¹

Geneva, September 28, 1955, 11 p.m.

798. From Johnson.

1. One of questions we face for next meeting is whether by that time there have been any releases of remaining 19 Americans and what we do if there are not. Latter even will of course require very strong renewal my stress on implementation. If one or more released before next meeting presentation on implementation could be milder and could show more disposition move on to discussion topics under item two.

2. In any event major subject will undoubtedly continue be his insistence on inclusion higher level meeting. I will of course stick to our position but would appreciate Department’s suggestions on any further debating points it feels I might make. Can without difficulty keep discussion going on this subject for at least next meeting but we should be looking ahead to probability deadlock will develop over this point.

3. As stated my telegram 794 believe it may be useful for me make renunciation of force statement at next meeting if opportunity develops. Believe this would assist in keeping situation fluid without giving away anything to CHICOMS.

4. My present plan is not to go into any detailed presentation missing military personnel at next meeting but only touch on it as required to support its inclusion as subject for discussion.

5. Hope Department will assure I promptly receive any information CHICOMS may give O’Neill on releases or other aspects implementation.

Gowen

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/9–2855. Secret; Limited Distribution.