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

294. Telegram 914 to Geneva¹

Washington, October 18, 1955, 6:36 p.m.

914. For Johnson.

Guidance for 22nd meeting October 20.

1. You should continue stress emphatically US dissatisfaction with PRC failure implement Agreed Announcement along lines Deptel 870 numbered paragraph 1. Situation remains unchanged regarding nineteen Americans and ability UK Charge carry out his agreed functions. Conviction growing in US that Americans being held as hostages for political purposes. As evidence hardening of US public opinion you should quote verbatim New York Times editorial October 17 which illustrates growing concern US over Chinese failure implement their agreement. (Deptel 910) US Government seriously concerned by PRC’s continued evasion its express commitments, which cannot fail have unfavorable effect on other aspects these talks.

2. At last meeting Wang introduced subjects such as status Taiwan and presence US forces in area on which US and PRC hold different views. These not subjects which can be usefully discussed under present conditions. Remind Wang that fundamental and pressing need is for both parties renounce use force so as to remove threat of war. Whenever Wang attempts divert discussion to other topics you should endeavor bring it back to this simple basic proposition.

3. With reference Wang’s demand that US withdraw its forces from Taiwan area you should point out that this is in effect a demand that US change its policy and abandon those whom it has pledged to defend from attack, under threat that armed force will be used if US does not accede to that demand. US does not intend yield to threat of force. Force is not an admissible means settling differences between us. US is not demanding that PRC alter its views and objectives. We only ask that both sides declare their willingness renounce force. Then and only then can differences be freely discussed.

4. Discretion on unaccounted-for military personnel continues in accordance with Deptel 870 paragraph 3 and on embargo accordance paragraph 5 same telegram.

5. As opportunity arises endeavor smoke out Wang on what other issues PRC may wish discuss under Item 2 so that we may know of all questions Chinese Communists want settled. Purpose questions raised latter paragraph is to lay basis for our inability solve embargo item unilaterally (your letter Oct. 13).

6. While Secretary in Geneva, responsibility for issuance your regular instructions will remain in Department. Telegraph promptly any instructions you may receive direct from Secretary in order keep Department fully informed. Department will keep Secretary informed of all instructions to you.

Dulles

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/10–1855. Secret; Priority; Limit Distribution. Drafted by Clough and Sebald; cleared by Phleger and McConaughy and in draft by Dulles.