Office of the Historian

287. Telegram 869 from Geneva1

Geneva, October 14, 1955, 4 p.m.
[Facsimile Page 1]

869. From Johnson.

1.
During today’s Ambassadorial talks Chen Shih-wu of NCNA talked with several correspondents, particularly agency men and about half British, individually or in groups. Gist his comments as reported to Garnish by participants follows:
2.
Said Wang going to tell me today they cannot discuss renunciation of use of force until these other questions settled: Seventh Fleet, blockade, Formosa, embargo. Said these are subjects for FonMins and their settlement would make question of renunciation of force timely.
3.
According to another correspondent, Chen referred to Chou statement that question has international and national aspects. Under former he mentioned UniStates interference, Seventh Fleet, blockade, embargo and UniStates military advisors on Formosa. Said must remove this interference. Under national aspect he mentioned liberation Taiwan by [Typeset Page 395] peaceful means, said Chou already has pointed out he ready to negotiate with Taiwan authorities without hard and fast conditions. To query whether “authorities” meant Nationalists or Taiwanese Chen said Chou did not (repeat not) want commit himself but added some Chiang people ready to negotiate. To further query Chen refused commit himself that this meant any member GRC ready negotiate.
4.
Responding to correspondent’s other questions, Chen said talks making progress though slowly and spirit good. Said talks will continue through FonMins conference and Dulles’ presence may give impetus to them. Expressed doubt Wang will try to see Dulles.
5.
Chen said talks now approaching crucial stage, with [Facsimile Page 2] subjects of such scope and importance that they belong on FonMins level.
6.
To question about nineteen jailed Americans Chen said I always raise question as matter of routine. Added this no longer matter for Ambassadors at all but matter for British Charge to settle. Also said missing military personnel matter does not (repeat not) belong in Geneva talks.
Gowen
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/10–1455. Official Use Only.↩