740.00119 P.W./8–945: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Harriman)
1775. 1. We approve your recommendations with regard to our position on the question of reparations and “war trophies” with respect to Manchuria contained in your telegram of August 8.16
2. As you know Manchuria is regarded by this Government as an integral part of China to be restored to Chinese sovereignty when [Page 966] liberated from the Japanese. We have never recognized the existence of “Manchukuo” and consider that China, which is our ally in this war and has been at war with Japan for over eight years, is entitled to special consideration in regard to reparations by Japan. Our position in this matter is particularly strong in its application to Japanese properties located within Chinese territory.
3. You are therefore authorized to inform Soong and, if the Soviet Government raises the question with you, to inform Stalin that, (on the negative side) we are opposed to the Soviet interpretation of war trophies and to any unilateral or bilateral (Sino-Soviet) decisions with regard to Japanese reparations in kind from Manchuria; and that, (on the positive side), we desire that the question of reparations from Japan be decided by agreement among the governments of nations which have actively and substantially participated in the war against Japan, with special consideration being given to the Chinese in regard to reparations in kind from Manchuria or other parts of China liberated from the Japanese.
In this general connection, the industrial equipment found in Manchuria is an essential element in maintaining the economy of that area, and we would therefore support very strongly any opposition by China to the removal of such equipment.