711.93/1–2549: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received 9:52 p. m.]
211. It would seem inevitable that you will be questioned about changes Chinese Government at your first press conference. In such event we feel extreme caution must be exercised if we are to avoid accusation partisanship. We have resolutely refused several requests for official statements in support of Chiang regime and anything said now would be scrutinized most carefully for signs of support of Li Tsung-jen.
New Chief of State is angling in Moscow for Soviet support and has reportedly agreed to negotiate with Communists on basis of Mao Tse-tung’s 8–point program one of which is abrogation treaties with US. New Head of State may succeed in his efforts to secure peace at almost any price, but this is hardly a program which we should encourage by support publicly.
If, therefore, you are impelled by circumstances to reply to press queries on subject, we suggest you stress that there has been no change [Page 84] in American policy toward China; that we continue to advocate the Open Door Policy and to desire the independence and territorial integrity of a China wherein free institutions and individual liberties will be recognized.