510. Telegram 1572 from Geneva1
1572. From Johnson.
Re para 2 Deptel 1693. My answer to last sentence is negative. Believe their principal interest in Chinese prisoners in U.S. is as counterweight to our emphasis on their failure release 13. Their quid pro quo for 13 remains political concessions. Agreement on renunciation force declaration would result some additional releases and assurance agreement on FoMin conference would probably result in release remainder.
Deportation some rpt some Chinese prisoners after present lapse of time since agreed announcement would only be used by them as lending substance their charge we have heretofore been violating agreement. If practicable deportation all rpt all Chinese prisoners able and willing go confirmed by Indians would undoubtedly serve as some pressure on PRC release additional Americans but doubt whether actual result would be release of all.
Note: Advance copy to Mr. Waddell (FE) 3/1/56 1:10 p.m. MG
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/3–156. Confidential; Priority.↩