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The Minister in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State

487. Strict press censorship prevents as yet reliable information regarding truce negotiations which began yesterday afternoon at Tangku. Not even names of Chinese delegates have been officially announced but it is understood they include General Chang Chun, former Mayor of Shanghai, and General Ho Chu-kuo, who until recently commanded Chinese forces at Shanhaikwan. Principal Japanese delegates are said to be Generals Koiso and Okamura.

According to some reports the Japanese will insist that the Chinese recognize Manchukuo but claim only purely military matters will be discussed for the present.

Johnson