649. Telegram 2022 from Geneva1
Geneva, June 8, 1956, 8
p.m.
2022. From Johnson.
Comments today’s meeting:
- 1.
- Believe extreme position Wang took indicates propaganda line they antticipate having to take if and when matter becomes public issue. Keeping in mind propaganda defeat they suffered with Korean POWs they of course see plot on our part demonstrate to world that Chinese prefer American prisons (or perhaps Taiwan) to Communist China. (This increases delicacy of how we handle GRC aspects.) If any considerable number of prisoners elect deportation to mainland this might alter CHICOM assessment our intentions, and further weaken Wang’s positon in talks, though publicly they might merely play it up as evidence “failure” our “plot”. If none or very few elect deportation it will confirm it in their suspicions.
- 2.
- Maximum effect action on release Americans may come if and when some Chinese deported. In this regard today’s meeting tends confirm O’Neill’s observation in last sentence para 4 Deptel 2109. Therefore important action such cases be expedited much as possible. Best time vigorously renew attack if they fail release Americans will come after we have completed action on Chinese prisoners.
- 3.
- His statement today indicates they will probably attempt discourage Indians from accepting our offer see prisoners. Doubt if this and other extreme portions their position will receive any support from India but it may nevertheless be reluctant [Facsimile Page 2] interview prisoners in face CHICOM objections. If question is raised by Indians we simply point out that it is of course their choice but public record will show we made offer which refused. Believe our effort should be directed toward keeping any controversy over this centered between CHICOMS and Indians.
- 4.
- Line to be taken at next meeting must be somewhat dependent on what takes place during interval, including content their public statement but in any event propose carefully analyze or record today’s meeting and to prepare statement further pointing out absurdity his position.
- 5.
- Am encouraged by development reported para 2 Deptel 2104 to believe they were planning shortly release at least some additional prisoners and our action particularly if it results any deportations mainland, will serve to expedite.
- 6.
- Ref para 3 Deptel 2104 in my opinion next few weeks would be very first [worst] time initiate public hearing on Americans detained Communist China and could only jeopardize possible success obtaining release Americans by tactic we now urging. Such hearings could be useful this regard if after present tactic has been given full trial it has not been successful.
- 7.
- Suggest that soon after Indians have undertaken first visits O’Neill ask to visit Americans if CHICOMS have not in meanwhile taken initiative. If Indians refuse offer make visit believe O’Neill should then make request visit Americans.
Proceeding Prague Saturday morning.
Gowen
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/6–856. Secret; Limit Distribution.↩