812. Telegram 31 from Geneva1
31. From Johnson.
Two hour ten minute meeting this morning.
Wang opened with generalized statement attacking “policy of hostility” and “aggressive policy” aimed at overthrowing PRC set forth in Secretary’s San Francisco speech as well as referring stationing guided missiles on Taiwan and plane incident. No rpt no mention Korea. Policy set forth by Secretary was meeting increasing opposition abroad and in US as well as meeting with defeat as exemplified by recent actions other Western countries concerning embargo. “Even in Taiwan patriotic people have risen in protests against this policy.” US proposal of renunciation of force was “deceptive and hypocritical excuse.” Then continued with statement on implementation referring previous inquiry on Dr. Lin and making statement Tseng Kuang-chih. Situation with regard to Chinese in US continues to be unsatisfactory.
I replied with long statement along lines paras one and two Deptel 36 as well as making strong counterattack on PRC record of hostility toward US, PRC attack on US in Korea, PRC attempts at subversion of and support of rebellion against Asian states friendly to US, etc. Made detailed reply on Dr. Lin pointing out that though she attempted take US funds in violation of US regulations she was permitted to proceed. Also made detailed reply on Tseng using material Deptel 40 which much appreciated [Facsimile Page 2] and most useful. Characterized our handling both Dr. Lin and Tseng as most considerate for which we should receive appreciation rather than complaint. Wished problem imprisoned Americans would be handled with same consideration. Solution problem of imprisoned Americans “would permit us direct [Typeset Page 1379] undivided attention to question reciprocal renunciation of force which remains fundamental to successful discussion other items under second part our terms reference.”
Subsequent give and take largely restatement respective position on renunciation of force. PRC will never agree to any formula which violates its sovereign rights. Many PRC proposals for improvement relations have not raised “response or echo” from US.
No surprises or new developments, line taken by Wang being very much along lines anticipated by Deptel 36. His presentation, though, was largely pro forma and carried no intimation any intention break talks or make new move. At one point when I used term “new departure” in referring to renunciation of force he eagerly picked it up and used it as take-off point for urging new departure by US in talks. He also pointed out both sides agreed Taiwan area tension is fundamental problem. Gave no indication whether he caught my point on willingness continue talks even if all Americans released.
Next meeting August 8. Detailed record by pouch arriving Dept Monday.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/7–1157. Confidential; Priority; Limit Distribution.↩