559. Telegram 1836 to Geneva1
- 1836. Verbatim text. For Johnson.
We are considering having you introduce following reformulation renunciation force announcement at April 19 repeat April 19 meeting:
QUOTE
- 1.
- Ambassador Wang Ping-nan, on behalf of the Government of the People’s Republic of China, and Ambassador Alexis Johnson, on behalf of the Government of the United States of America, agree to announce without prejudice to the pursuit by each side of its policies [Typeset Page 895] by peaceful means or its inherent right of individual or collective self-defense:
- 2.
- The People’s Republic of China and the United States of America are determined that they should settle disputes between their two countries through peaceful negotiations without resorting to the threat or use of force in the Taiwan area or elsewhere;
- 3.
- The two Ambassadors should continue their talks to seek practical and feasible means for the realization of this common desire. UNQUOTE
We believe above reformulation, while not dropping any elements we consider essential, provides opportunity for Chinese Communists to abandon [Facsimile Page 2] previous adamant position without loss of face, should they be inclined do so. From US point of view it has advantage constituting further effort on our part find suitable formula and thus permit us maintain strong public position. If this reformulation is adopted we are thinking of having you tell Wang at next meeting that US giving further study to renunciation of force announcement and might have proposal make at following meeting.
Reformulation has not yet been considered by Secretary. Would appreciate your comments.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/4–356. Secret; Priority; Limit Distribution. Drafted by Clough; cleared by McConaughy and in substance by Phleger.↩