Foreign Relations of the United States, 1955–1957, Volume III, China, Microfiche Supplement

725. Telegram 374 to Geneva¹

Washington, October 2, 1956, 8:39 p.m.

374. For Johnson.

Guidance for October 4 meeting:

1. In connection with Communist proposal that there be announcement on cultural exchange US position is that there can be no such exchange while US citizens held in Communist jails and in violation Agreed Announcement. Point out how inconsistent with cultural relations is the refusal of Communists to make meaningful renunciation of force.

2. Refer to exchange of public statements on trade restrictions and read Department’s September 24 statement into record.

3. If Wang should attempt open discussion on trade repeat reasons why we must decline to discuss.

4. FYI Results of last exchange of public statements confirm our view that US in strong position and should continue rest its case without any modification whatever on refusal Chinese Communists either renounce force or release Americans. Your argumentation on these points has been sound and effective. END FYI

Dulles

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/10–256. Confidential; Priority; Limit Distribution. Drafted by Phleger and Clough; cleared by Phleger, Sebald, Robertson and McConaughy.