703. Telegram 172 from Geneva1
172. From Johnson.
Comments today’s meeting:
Believe Wang’s tactics today directed toward facing us with dilemma of whether to refuse any discussion trade and thereby build up their position on continuation talks along lines Chou’s Peoples Congress speech, or to agree to discussion, when any agreement our part discuss trade, however tentative or contingent, would be exploited by them to accelerate undermining our international position on trade controls. Can anticipate he will sharpen dilemma and intensify attempt [Typeset Page 1153] bring pressure this regard next meeting. If we take position flat refusal discuss anticipate their action will first be public statement then attempt bring further pressure on us by proposing recess until US has “some new and concrete proposal” when they willing meet at US request. This would also enable them maintain posture of “reasonableness” and avoid onus of definitive break.
Dept will also note at today’s meeting his renewed invitation submit new draft on renunciation and my pointing out we had submitted two successive drafts. Dept will also note I have thus far avoided stating converse my present instructions on trade, that is any statement trade discussion could be “fruitful” if renunciation force agreed. While recognize difficulty authorizing me state converse, if it is possible do so may enable me develop line that would be useful next meeting. Will appreciate maximum guidance and suggestions Dept able give me meet probable situation at next meeting.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/8–2156. Secret; Limit Distribution.↩