551. Telegram 1804 to Geneva1
Washington, March 27, 1956, 7:51
p.m.
1804. For Johnson.
Guidance for March 29 meeting.
- 1.
- Review course discussions on return of civilians. Remind Wang this was first item for discussion and its early and satisfactory settlement would have provided solid basis for further progress. Early optimism engendered this country by release some Americans and issuance Agreed Announcement long ago replaced by disillusionment. US Government and people cannot understand why Chinese Communists deliberately choose flout their pledged word if they have serious desire improve relations with US. Failure carry out their public commitment September 10 and attempt obscure this failure by vague unfounded charges concerning treatment Chinese in US can only be interpreted as intended place pressure on US for political concessions. This maneuver cannot succeed. If Chinese Communists seriously intend reach understanding with US on outstanding issues between us they must start by fulfilling their pledge release Americans.
- 2.
- On renunciation force maintain posture of being willing consider any Chinese Communist amendments which would not do violence basic [Facsimile Page 2] principles our January 12 draft. Criticize their “take it or leave it” attitude regarding their two drafts.
- 3.
- We understand how difficult it is for you carry on these discussions and continue repeat arguments and restate positions made many times before. The skill, ingenuity and good temper which you have [Typeset Page 880] shown in face of Wang’s provocative and belligerent conduct is admirable. It is desirable that these talks continue and extremely important that any break should be on Wang’s initiative and in such a way as to be clearly demonstrable to public. We know you have in mind that you must furnish no basis for any claim that you caused break.
Hoover
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/3–2756. Secret; Priority; Limit Distribution. Drafted by Clough and Phleger; cleared by McConaughy and Sebald.↩