861.77/3483: Telegram
The Minister in China (Schurman) to the Secretary of State
[Received June 17—10:15 a.m.]
184. My despatch 2242, May 5; my telegrams number 128, May 14, 5 p.m. and 175, June 13, 5 p.m. I have today received a note from Chinese Minister for Foreign Affairs dated June 16, which in translation reads as follows:
“I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of Your Excellency’s note of May 3rd, 1924, in which Your Excellency referring to the 13th resolution adopted by the Washington Conference concerning the Chinese Eastern Railway requesting [requested?] that China take note of its responsibility as trustee thereunder. You also stated that the rights of all creditors should be adequately protected.
The history and agreements relating to the Chinese Eastern Railway all show that it consists of the two countries of China and Russia. Prior to the conclusion of the Sino-Russian Agreement the pronouncement of the Washington Conference referred to China’s responsibility during the time of its trusteeship. Now Sino-Russian relations have been established and the state of affairs is entirely different from what it was formerly. In future the two Governments of China and Russia will deal with the question of the Chinese Eastern Railway in which only the two countries of Russia and China are concerned. This is a right which properly rests in the two Governments of China and Russia.
As regards the temporary arrangement made between China and Russia concerning the Chinese Eastern Railway, this, it may also be stated, is not prejudicial to the rights of the various powers. The Chinese Government considers that there is no need for excessive anxiety in reference to the points raised by the American Government.
I have the honor, Mr. Minister, to transmit the foregoing reply and trust that you will appreciate the position.”
I understand similar replies have been sent to French and Japanese Ministers.