Foreign Relations of the United States, 1955–1957, Volume III, China, Microfiche Supplement

377. Telegram 1203 from Geneva¹

Geneva, November 18, 1955, 4 p.m.

1203. From Johnson.

1. It will be noted Wang’s prepared statement at yesterday’s meeting was very hard and until last sentence I had feeling he was preparing ground for break. However, should also be noted he has not yet accepted my invitation at November 3 meeting to give their views on trade. They have impoliticly [implicity?] accepted our position renunciation force first and most important item although they of course continue link it with FonMin meeting.

2. While they have dropped immediate demand for withdrawal US forces from Taiwan they are of course trying to maneuver us into position of issuing statement which would provide strong basis for demanding our withdrawal. At same time they have interpreted reference to “individual and collective self-defense” in juxtaposition to Taiwan area in operative para our draft as requiring recognition by them, on one hand, of US right unilaterally to defend Taiwan, and, on other hand, validity of US defense treaty with GRC. From this it would follow that they are precluded from even raising question “withdrawal US forces from Taiwan” as well as abandoning their over-all position on GRC and Taiwan. Therefore, it is empty to speak of not prejudicing their policies. Stripped of polemics believe this is genuine position they were setting forth in paras 8 and 11 Wang’s statement (Mytel 1200) and that from their standpoint it has considerable point.

3. Do not suggest any amendment our draft at this time but believe we should be considering how point might be met if it appears desirable attempt do so.

4. Also suggest we be considering whether and how our draft could be amended consistent with our over-all position so that it would make specific reference to intent both parties settle disputes by peaceful means. What I have in mind is possibility inclusion some general statement intent both sides peacefully negotiate disputes including possibly specific reference to Taiwan area which would serve as substitute their para on FonMin meeting without commitment as to any particular form of negotiation. Believe if something along this line could be formulated it would substantially strengthen present draft and might slightly increase its acceptability.

5. However, as Department is aware it is my considered view that we cannot now anticipate CHICOMS will publicly make such major shift in position as would be involved in issuance any satisfactory renunciation of force declaration in Taiwan area without receiving what they would consider satisfactory assurance substantial value in return.

6. Next meeting will be “my turn” speak first and it will be important I have carefully prepared and considered statement. Would appreciate Department’s suggestions on additional points I might make or those made in past which Department believes would be most useful emphasize.

Gowen

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/11–1855. Secret; Priority.