43. Telegram 347 from Geneva1
347. From Johnson.
Highlights fourth meeting lasting two hours twenty minutes.
Wang opened with long statement CHICOM grievances re students. Said up to now some students continue be prevented leave, citing in great detail case of Dr. Tsien, Cal Tech Rocket Expert. Claimed latter wrote Peiping authorities June 15, appealing assistance return China. Handed me list names 44 of 76 students given him last meeting who he said not yet returned China. Wang also made familiar allegations students afraid express desire return, being forced leave by unreasonable deadline, or apply permanent residence, unable receive travel funds, et cetera.
I replied various points, stressing repeatedly restrictions on Chinese students, including Dr. Tsien now rescinded and all without exception free depart if desire. As result my reiteration no restrictions against departure and contrasting with situation Americans in China Wang shifted emphasis to “practical” difficulties faced by students saying while these restrictions may have been lifted practical difficulties mounted to restraint on students. Way to solve these difficulties was to have third country look after affairs Chinese nationals in United States.
I then read prepared statement (A) turning down Wang’s first proposal August 2 re list all Chinese in US; (B) pointing out we had fully met second and third proposals; (C) outlining “arrangement being considered” re fourth proposal and (D) again contrasted situation Americans in China emphasizing US expected all US civilians be released promptly and whatever measures necessary bring this about should be taken by Chinese. Explicit information concerning measures being taken this regard “would facilitate and expedite discussions.”
Wang repeated his request for names all Chinese US and reserved right comment on our suggestions re his fourth proposal at next meeting.
I then handed Wang text proposed press announcement modified according Deptel 398. Wang agreed to release with last portion [Facsimile Page 2] first sentence second paragraph reading as follows:
[Typeset Page 44]“The talks so far have been confined to the matter of return of civilians to their respective countries.” Since this wording conforms text of first agenda item I agreed to change.
Next meeting 10 a.m., August 10 at Wang’s request.
Note: Advance copy to Mr. Waddell (FE) 10:30 a.m., 8/8/55, CWO/FED
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/8–855. Confidential; Priority.↩