793.5/3–2054
No. 269
Memorandum by the Acting Secretary of State to the Assistant
Secretary of State for Far Eastern Affairs (Robertson)
Subject:
- Mutual Defense Treaty with the Republic of China.
I talked with the Secretary about this just before he left. He recognizes the probability that it will be necessary for us ultimately to negotiate a Mutual Defense Treaty with the GRC but would prefer to delay decision as to timing because of the complexities of the offshore island problem.
Chiang Kai-shek will undoubtedly bring the matter up during the Secretary’s short visit to Formosa and the situation may be clear after his return.
I suggest you take this up with him again toward the end of the month.