358. Telegram 1183 to Geneva1
1183. For Johnson.
Following is suggested explanatory statement mentioned last sentence paragraph 3 our 1162:
One of practical matters which United States has introduced for discussion at Geneva talks is proposal that both United States and Peoples Republic of China renounce use of force to achieve their policies when they conflict. The two Governments confront each other with policies which are in certain respects incompatible. This fact need not, however, mean armed conflict and the most important single thing to do is first of all to be sure that it will not lead to armed conflict.
Then and only then can other matters causing tension between the parties in the Taiwan area and Far East be hopefully discussed.
Neither side wants to negotiate under threat of force. Free discussion of differences, and their fair and equitable solution, become impossible under overhanging threat that force may be resorted to when one party does not agree with other.
United States as member of United Nations has agreed to refrain in its international relations from threat or use of force. [Facsimile Page 2] This has been [Typeset Page 496] its policy for many years and is its guiding principle of conduct in Far East, as throughout world.
Use of force to achieve national objectives does not accord with accepted standards of conduct under international law.
Government of League of Nations, Kellogg-Briand Treaties, and Charter of United Nations reflect universal view of civilized community of nations that use of force as instrument of national policy violates international law, constitutes threat to international peace, and prejudices interests of entire world community.
There are in world today many situations which tempt those who have force to use it to achieve what they believe to be legitimate policy objectives. Many countries are abnormally divided or contain what some consider to be abnormal intrusions. Nevertheless, the responsible governments of world have in each of these cases renounced use of force to achieve what they believe to be legitimate and even urgent goals.
Acceptance of this principle does not involve third parties, or justice or injustice of conflicting claims. It only involves recognizing and agreeing to abide by accepted standards of international conduct.
In order to accomplish end outlined above, Ambassador Johnson has today presented to Ambassador Wang Ping-nan following draft declaration on renunciation of use of force and proposed that it be accepted.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/11–955. Secret; Niact; Limit Distribution. Drafted by Clough; cleared by McConaughy and Sebald.↩