72. Telegram 429 from Geneva1
429. From Johnson.
Am not clear on thinking underlying draft declaration contained Deptel 466 but from content assume thought might be to issue entirely unilaterally, possibly publicly as final effort in these negotiations. If such is case I do not believe that point yet reached in negotiations here. By throwing down public challenge to CHICOMS at this point seems to me would retard rather than expedite release. If we are willing enter into any representation arrangement before release any Americans I believe we can accomplish much more in context negotiations here by my working out with Wang an agreed public statement which would be in form individual unilateral declarations of which other would take note. I would strive have included in his statement as firm and definite commitment as could be obtained on release imprisoned Americans in particular.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/8–1255. Secret; Niact.↩