819. Telegram 148 to Geneva1
Washington, August 5, 1957, 8:53
p.m.
148. For Johnson.
Guidance for August 8 meeting:
- 1.
- Review course negotiations on renunciation force. When talks began situation existed particularly in Taiwan area which threatened peace. This situation still exists and in some respects threat increased. U.S. has from beginning insisted essential prerequisite to discussion other matters at issue is to remove this threat by reciprocal renunciation force. However, Chinese Communists have been unwilling for over year discuss seriously renunciation of force, having instead shifted discussion to side issues. Renunciation force deserves more serious consideration. Hence your statement last meeting you considered vital discuss long as necessary reach agreement.
- 2.
- Remind Wang he promised under Agreed Announcement take certain measures enable imprisoned Americans exercise right return. Only measures taken with regard any of Americans still remaining have had contrary effect. Challenge Wang to cite any measure taken by Chinese Communists to carry out Agreed Announcement with respect to Downey, Redmond, Fecteau, McCann, Wagner or MacCormack. It would have been simple matter for Chinese Communists demonstrate sincerity and good faith by release these prisoners had they desired do so. Such action even now would have favorable effect on atmosphere these talks.
- 3.
- Maintain position other matters also.
Dulles
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/8–557. Confidential; Limit Distribution. Drafted by Osborn and Clough; cleared by Robertson in draft and by Jones.↩