Foreign Relations of the United States, 1961–1963, Volume XXII, Northeast Asia

188. Memorandum for the Record⁰

Washington, undated.

The following summarizes certain discussions with General Chiang Ching-kuo during the General’s visit to Washington.

The present moment is an important one in world history particularly in relation to the future course of events in the Far East and in Communist China. In order to weaken the Chinese Communist regime, it is desirable for the Government of the Republic of China and the United States to consult closely and carry out such actions as we mutually agree will serve this end.

Both governments wish to avoid action which would run the risk of precipitating a world conflict or action which, by failure or otherwise, would be detrimental to their joint interests. [2 lines of source text not declassified]

[1 paragraph (8 lines of source text) not declassified]

There was discussion of a proposal [less than 1 line of source text not declassified] to study and develop more effective operations. This group would develop plans and programs for consideration by both sides to improve capabilities to hurt the Chinese Communist regime. It was agreed that this subject would be discussed further [less than 1 line of source text not declassified]. In general the plans and programs might cover:

1. The Political Path to Mainland Resistance—It is important to develop ways and means to win the political allegiance of individuals on the mainland and to properly indoctrinate agents who were sent there. President Chiang’s “Ten Pledges to the Mainland People” might well form a basis for the political program.

2. Penetration and Subversion—Equally important is the weakening of the Chinese Communist control apparatus by the recruitment and subversion of individuals in the government, the Party, and the Communist Army.

3. Strategic Targets—Study would be given to paramilitary sabotage operations directed at key Chinese Communist military and industrial installations.

The United States will provide adequate support for use when necessary in mutually agreed operations.

The basic policy set forth in the Seven Points memorandum¹ will continue to guide the actions of both sides.

0. Source: Kennedy Library, National Security Files, Countries Series, China. Secret. No drafting information appears on the source text. Filed with a covering memorandum of September 16 from Department of State Executive Secretary Benjamin H. Read to Bundy, which states that it reflected the substance of a September 14 discussion between McCone and Chiang Ching-kuo and that the CIA wanted to send it to Wright for transmittal to the GRC. Read’s memorandum requested Bundy’s clearance both on the substance of the attachment and the decision to give a copy to the GRC and bears Forrestal’s handwritten “OK” and initials. A transcript of McCone’s September 14 conversation with Chiang is in Central Intelligence Agency,DCI (McCone) Files, Job 80-B01285A, Box 7, DCI Meeting Transcripts)
1. Document 98.