714. Telegram 301 to Geneva1
301. For Johnson.
Guidance for September 20 meeting.
1. Renunciation of force. Again show how our April 19 revision introduces minimum changes Communist December 1 draft which provided reasonable starting point for negotiation although not in itself sufficiently explicit constitute acceptable formulation renunciation of force declaration. These changes were essential to demonstrate to world both sides sincerely willing renounce use of force Taiwan area and pursue objectives by peaceful means only. Characterize Communist May 11 draft as step backward. (FYI After thorough consideration possible reformulation our April 19 revision, we are satisfied our objectives best served by holding to present draft. We consider it strong position on which defend ourselves publicly against Communist propaganda effort. We do not repeat not contemplate any revision. END FYI)
Refer to passage from Liu Shao-chi speech before 8th Party Congress September 15 regarding Communist intention take Taiwan (Deptel 300).
Observe that apparent PRC determination bring Taiwan under Communist domination by any means necessary including use of force would seem to [Facsimile Page 2] indicate further attempts to arrive at meaningful renunciation of force may be foredoomed to failure. Surmise that PRC high policy reflected in Liu’s speech may afford explanation Wang’s persistent refusal to agree to effective renunciation of force formula through more than 9 months fruitless discussion this subject at Geneva. Invite Wang to explain and interpret Liu statement in light professed Chinese Communist willingness make comprehensive renunciation of force.
(FYI While there is nothing new in Liu statement on Taiwan we think his high position as Chairman Standing Committee National Peoples Congress and as spokesman for Central Committee of Party and importance of 8th Party Congress before which he spoke justify this special attention. We wish speech used to draw out Wang more fully re Chinese Communist determination use force to extend their sway to Taiwan, if they cannot obtain this objective by less costly means. END FYI)
[Typeset Page 1179]2. Trade controls. Refuse to discuss trade controls, framing your argument in same terms used last meeting.
3. U.S. Navy Plane. Subject need not be introduced this meeting. However if Wang brings up take same line as last meeting and continue avoid being drawn into discussion merits of case. (FYI Chinese Communists have not yet replied our protest. END FYI)
4. Implementation. In pressing for early release remaining Americans emphasize futility continuing hold these persons hostage as means bringing about improvement of relations. FYI We are proceeding deport promptly to China [Facsimile Page 3] mainland three Chinese convicts who chose to go there. We are not bringing Indian Embassy into process since Agreed Announcement provides for their intervention only if Chinese wishing to go to mainland encounters obstruction, as we have told them they will be allowed leave and are expediting their departure. We do not propose to inform Wang or to make public announcement regarding Chinese convicts until latter have left US unless we are obliged to do so by Communist propaganda on subject or leak to press in US. END FYI
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/9–1756. Secret; Priority; Limit Distribution. Drafted by Clough and McConaughy; cleared by Sebald. Repeated to London Priority as telegram Tosec 2.↩