Office of the Historian

264. Telegram 815 from Geneva1

Geneva, October 5, 1955, 4 p.m.
[Facsimile Page 1]

815. From Johnson.

1.
In spite of his efforts at today’s meeting to avoid being drawn into discussion of implementation Wang could not refrain from some replies and thus again let himself be trapped into such discussion. In fact outside of his opening statement probably 85 per cent of today’s discussion was devoted to implementation. However towards end he realized what he had done and is going to be much more cautious and difficult this regard at next meeting.
2.
However, he has neatly avoided being drawn into any discussion of “agenda” under Item 2. They have divided our purpose this regard and it is difficult to argue with his position which is substantially that either of us can bring up any subject within agenda Item 2 he wishes any time he wishes. We find ourselves on the other side of our usual controversy in this regard when dealing with Communists.
3.
Felt it was in our best interest to agree to Saturday meeting. Neither of us has thus far opposed other’s proposal for date of meeting. While we have tacitly alternated on suggested date for next meeting I had in fact made suggestion at both of last two preceding meetings and he well realized it was past his “turn” at today’s meeting. Also I felt that as I was successful in getting through today’s meeting without use any of additional material Department has authorized under Item 2 I was in relatively good position for Saturday meeting.
4.
With respect implementation feel that I was successful today in obtaining full retreat by Wang from his previous implication announcement did not apply imprisoned Americans. Feel I pressed other questions at today’s meeting give O’Neill [Facsimile Page 2] excellent basis for formal approach on unanswered questions affecting UK functions and I hope he will promptly follow up.
Gowen

Note: Mr. Waddell’s office (FE) notified 10/5/55 3:36 p.m. EMB (CWO)

  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/10–555. Secret; Priority; Limited Distribution.↩