Foreign Relations of the United States, 1949, The Far East: China, Volume VIII

893.00B/11–1149: Telegram

The Chargé in China (Strong) to the Secretary of State

Chungking, November 11, 1949—4 p. m.
[Received November 12—4:22 a. m.]

Cantel 1276. Chu Chang-wei today informed AstAMilAtt⁵⁰ Commies had reached Kweiting just east of Kweiyang and unless things improved Commies would be near Chungking in 10 days.

Chu indicated there is no agreement yet on what government will do. Premier Yen wishes stay Chungking regardless. Others feel it futile move Kunming. Shortage of commercial aircraft (suspension CNAC⁵¹ and CATC⁵² flights) of course renders any move difficult.

President Li is going Kweilin today from Kunming, according to Chu, to discuss next measures with Pai Chung-hsi. Apparently Pai’s Forty-sixth Army is supposed to move up to Kweiyang from Liuchow.

We are trying get authentic information from government leaders on future plans. If no move to be made from Chungking or if move is to Taiwan, we shall request attaché plane from Taiwan and proceed to Hong Kong at such time as seems necessary and await orders from Department.

Embassy recommends Rozier⁵³ be authorized at once to close Consulate at his discretion.

Department pass to Taipei 215, Hong Kong 58, Kunming 38.

Strong

50. Assistant American Military Attaché.
51. China National Aviation Corporation.
52. Central Air Transport Corporation.
53. John W. Rozier, Vice Consul at Chungking.