199. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in the Republic of China1
333. Re ur 513.2 Chain of events envisaged your 513 was precisely type of situation which has led President, Secretary and Department exert strongest efforts seek persuade Generalissimo forego use veto in China’s interest as well as in interest free world generally. US position set forth in messages to Generalissimo from President and Secretary was decided upon only after exhaustive consideration of entire situation at highest levels. That decision is final and will not be changed. Efforts US deflect indignation from China in event veto would be futile in face reaction UN members generally over frustration long awaited resolution membership problem. You will also realize impossibility of our being able defend China for course of action we ourselves, despite strength US feeling concerning satellites, have publicly renounced as against general interest.
Membership issue will probably reach SC early next week.
It is imperative you exert every feasible effort persuade Generalissimo that statement Lodge for GA Department’s 3293 provides basis which China can likewise utilize in support of decision to forego veto and that that decision is only practicable course now open to China, if as it appears disastrous consequences are to be avoided.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 310.2/12–255. Secret; Niact; Eyes only. Drafted by Bacon and signed by Robertson for the Secretary.↩
- Supra.↩
- Document 197.↩