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Ford Press Releases - Foreign Affairs, 1969-1973
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Ford Press Releases - Foreign Affairs, 1969-1973
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China
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The original documents are located in Box D8, folder "Ford Press Releases - Foreign
Affairs, 1969-1973" of the Ford Congressional Papers: Press Secretary and Speech File at
the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Copyright Notice
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. The Council donated to the United
States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.
Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public
domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to
remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid
copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Digitized from Box D8 of The Ford Congressional Papers: Press Secretary and Speech File at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
March 5, 1969
Statement by Rep. Gerald R. Ford, R-Mich., Minority Leader of the U.S. House of
Representatives.
President Nixon's televised press conference on foreign policy -- nearly
a full hour question and answer session -- was a first for America.
It was truly remarkable that an American President would bring the people
as fully into the workings of personal diplomacy and the formulation of foreign
policy as did Mr. Nixon.
This cannot help but establish a feeling of trust between President Nixon
and the American people in the area of foreign policy, just as the new President
has created feelings of mutual trust between himself and the leaders of Western
Europe as the result of his European trip.
Mr. Nixon's televised press conference on foreign policy was a unique and
most effective way of reporting to the American people on the President's tour of
Europe. It communicated far more to them than any presidential monologue might
have done.
# # #
0 Office Copy
NEWS
CONGRESSMAN
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR RELEASE AT 12 NOON--
May 28, 1969
Remarks by Rep. Gerald R. Ford, R-Mich., Republican Leader, U.S. House of Reps.
on the floor of the House, May 28, 1969.
Mr. Speaker: I have always supported the foreign aid program in principle
because I believe it helps to further one of America's national goals -- that of
promoting peace and order in the world. However, I have become increasingly
critical of the manner in which our foreign aid program has been administered, the
repeated instances of waste, stupidity and corruption, and the appalling lack of
results in relation to tremendous U.S. investments.
Against this backdrop of comment, I would like to say that I am pleased by
the thrust of President Nixon's foreign aid message. It appears to signal a New
Direction in our foreign aid program, focusing as it does on a fresh approach to
private enterprise involvement in the program and on multi-nation assistance
programs rather than unilateral U.S. aid to the Third World.
On the face of it, the President's proposed Overseas Private Investment
Corporation appears to be an excellent idea. Assuming its approval by the Congress,
the proof will be in the implementation of the proposal. I also heartily approve
the President's declared intention to place a mandate upon the Agency for Inter-
national Development to help improve opportunities for local private enterprise
in the developing countries.
I particularly commend the President for his proposal to create a position
of Auditor General in AID, assuming that the new AG will be a man of great
determination and the courage to ride herd on his own people. I am hopeful that
President Nixon can greatly strengthen the AID program by establishing the new
position of AID auditor general. I base that hope in part on the fact that the
AG will be reporting directly to an excellent administrator, former Michigan State
University president John Hannah.
In essence I endorse the Nixon foreign aid program. But I take no position
on the dollar amount. The Congress will scrutinize the dollar requests and then
work its will. We can make a judgment on the fund requests only on the basis of
supporting data.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all members may have five
legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks on the subject of
the President's foreign aid message.
# # #
NEWS
CONGRESSMAN
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR RELEASE AT 12 NOON--
May 28, 1969
Remarks by Rep. Gerald R. Ford, R-Mich., Republican Leader, U.S. House of Reps.
on the floor of the House, May 28, 1969.
Mr. Speaker: I have always supported the foreign aid program in principle
because I believe it helps to further one of America's national goals -- that of
promoting peace and order in the world. However, I have become increasingly
critical of the manner in which our foreign aid program has been administered, the
repeated instances of waste, stupidity and corruption, and the appalling lack of
results in relation to tremendous U.S. investments.
Against this backdrop of comment, I would like to say that I am pleased by
the thrust of President Nixon's foreign aid message. It appears to signal a New
Direction in our foreign aid program, focusing as it does on a fresh approach to
private enterprise involvement in the program and on multi-nation assistance
programs rather than unilateral U.S. aid to the Third World.
On the face of it, the President's proposed Overseas Private Investment
Corporation appears to be an excellent idea. Assuming its approval by the Congress,
the proof will be in the implementation of the proposal. I also heartily approve
the President's declared intention to place a mandate upon the Agency for Inter-
national Development to help improve opportunities for local private enterprise
in the developing countries.
I particularly commend the President for his proposal to create a position
of Auditor General in AID, assuming that the new AG will be a man of great
determination and the courage to ride herd on his own people. I am hopeful that
President Nixon can greatly strengthen the AID program by establishing the new
position of AID auditor general. I base that hope in part on the fact that the
AG will be reporting directly to an excellent administrator, former Michigan State
University president John Hannah.
In essence I endorse the Nixon foreign aid program. But I take no position
on the dollar amount. The Congress will scrutinize the dollar requests and then
work its will. We can make a judgment on the fund requests only on the basis of
supporting data.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all members may have five
legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks on the subject of
the President's foreign aid message.
# # #
0 Office Copy
NEWS
CONGRESSMAN
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
Statement by Rep. Gerald R. Ford, R-Mich., in observance of Captive Nations Week
1969, placed in the Congressional Record of Monday, July 14, 1969.
Mr. Speaker, this week we mark the 10th anniversary of a testament to
freedom first proclaimed by the late President Dwight D. Eisenhower. This is
the 10th annual observance of Captive Nations Week, authorized by congressional
resolution in 1959. That resolution empowered American Presidents to proclaim
Captive Nations Week each year until "such time as freedom and independence
shall have been achieved for all Captive Nations of the world."
This 10th anniversary of the observance of Captive Nations Week takes on
special significance. It comes while the Soviet-led invasion of Czechoslovakia
is fresh in our minds. It is a most fitting time to look at the original Captive
Nations resolution and to ask ourselves some searching questions about the
meaning and purpose of Captive Nations Week.
The original resolution told it like it is. It said: "The imperialistic
policies of Communist Russia have led through direct and indirect aggression to
the subjugation of the national independence of Poland, Hungary, Lithuania,
Ukrainia, Czechoslovakia, Latvia," etc. In all, 22 nations were listed as
having lost their independence because of Communist aggression. The last on the
list was North Vietnam.
Today we are fighting Communist aggression in South Vietnam and
maneuvering against Soviet domination of the Mideast while probing the possibility
of a peaceful settlement in Vietnam and a general arms control agreement with the
Soviet Union.
But whatever is involved in the intricacies of current diplomacy, we still
must tell it like it is.
We still weep for the Polish workers of Poznan so brutally suppressed when
they rose in revolt 13 years ago against their Communist puppet rulers. We still
are outraged over the bloodbath 13 years ago in Hungary when security forces
fired upon the people and the Communist puppet rulers there called in Soviet
troops to put down the uprising. Our hearts go out to the people of Czechoslovakia,
invaded by the Soviet Union and four other Warsaw Pact nations last August 20 in
(more)
-2-
a move to stamp out the freedoms being enjoyed by the Czechs and Slovaks.
What tremendous courage has been shown by the Poles of Poznan, the freedom
fighters of Hungary, and the Czechoslovakians resisting the Soviet occupation and
the reimposition of tyranny and censorship in their country!
It is this that points up the significance of Captive Nations Week and the
dedication of Americans to the nurturing of freedom throughout the world.
There is a truth that no arms and no occupation can kill. The truth is
that within the hearts of the enslaved peoples there burns a love of liberty
which is a constant threat to their rulers -- a yearning for freedom which will
ultimately prevail. And this truth gives meaning to our Captive Nations Week
observance.
Communism as an ideology has proven itself a myth. The form of government
we see in the Soviet Union, Communist China and the Red satellite nations is
simply statism -- tyrannical rule by an oligarchy and a single political party.
Statism is dictatorship, whatever the name given to it -- Communism, Naziism or
Fascism.
Only the government which governs with the consent of the governed is
worthy of allegiance from its people.
This, too, is a truth that must be trumpeted during Captive Nations Week.
And it is a truth which evokes fear and anger within Communist ruling circles
when Americans speak of it during Captive Nations Week or any other time.
Mr. Speaker, I believe the United States should seek enforceable agreements
with the Soviet Union aimed at avoiding a third world war.
But it would be the greatest hypocrisy to close our eyes to the wrongs
that the Soviet Union has done to millions of human beings deprived of individual
freedoms and national independence.
There are some Americans who think that Captive Nations Week should be
soft-pedalled or forgotten. I strongly disagree.
Americans must continue to make known their deep concern about the people
of the Captive Nations and convey this message to the captive world.
Americans should continue to make known their refusal to accept the regimes
imposed upon these unfortunate victims of tyranny.
Americans should continue to promote the basic human rights and fundamental
freedoms which are the God-given rights of all people -- and not talk of them
only when it may be expedient to do SO.
(more)
-3-
Americans must never accept the view that freedom is foreclosed for the
now-enslaved peoples of the world. Consistent with our own national interests,
America should constantly explore all avenues that might lead to a lessening of
their plight.
Let us continue to inform the captive peoples of our full and
uncompromising support for their unquenchable goal of national and individual
freedom. Let them ever know that Americans are dedicated to the furtherance of
freedom throughout the world.
Let us keep faith with the people of the Captive Nations.
# # #
Office Copy
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
July 22, 1969
Statement by Rep. Gerald R. Ford, R-Mich., Minority Leader, U.S. House of Reps.
on the floor of the House of Representatives on July 22, 1969.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to commend the President
of the United States on his courage and boldness in scheduling a visit to the
Communist State of Romania.
What the President has done is simply to place the Eastern Communist
world on notice that the United States will move toward friendship, step for
step, with those who wish to move toward friendship with us. It places the
Western world on notice that the United States has recognized the cracks in the
Communist monolith and we intend to pursue these developments in the interests
of the peoples of Eastern Europe, and in the interests of peace.
The President is and has always been a realist toward the Communist world.
He rejects the naive assumptions of past policy that, by throwing away economic
concessions, we will win political gains. He deals with the nations of Eastern
Europe as an American head of state should deal with them -- recognizing that they
have interests and we have interests and we do not intend to give up something
for nothing. If they seek trade advantages in the United States, we will hold
those out, but there are political and diplomatic dividends which we seek in
Eastern Europe -- and we welcome a horse trade. There will be no something-for-
nothing deals with the Communist world with President Nixon in the White House.
The President has been criticized for not "clearing" his visit with the
Soviet Union. It is not the custom of American Presidents, certainly it is not
the practice of this one, to clear our diplomatic moves in advance with Moscow.
They have never cleared theirs with us. Indeed, if we are to take Foreign Minister
Gromyko at his word, the visit to Bucharest is not seen by them as a provocative
act.
It is a welcome development to find that we have in the White House today
a President who initiates moves in foreign policy rather than reacts to them. It
is good to have a dynamic foreign policy for the United States rather than a static
and sterile one. The President takes with him on this visit into Eastern Europe
and the Communist world by an American President our hopes that he can bring back
some sign of a more just and enduring peace. He should be commended by the
American people for making this historic effort.
# # #
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
November 25, 1969
Statement prepared for delivery by Rep. Gerald R. Ford, R-Mich., on the floor of
the U.S. House of Representatives, Nov. 25, 1969.
MR. SPEAKER: President Nixon's decision to seek Senate approval of
United States participation in the Geneva Protocol banning first use of gases and
bacteriological methods of warfare is an initiative toward peace that may have
far-reaching effects.
This affirmative action by the White House could have a highly salutary
impact on the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks now in progress in their preliminary
phase.
In taking the United States out of the field of germ warfare, the President
has made abundantly clear to the American people and to peoples throughout the
world the great devotion that this Nation has to the objective of universal peace.
Not only is this action reassuring to our own people but it is also fresh
proof to the people of other nations that the United States wants nothing so much
as peace for itself and for all countries in the world commonwealth.
I believe this move by President Nixon will greatly enhance the standing
of the United States in the eyes of the world. I would go further and say that
seldom has the prestige of the United States been greater than at this moment in
our glorious history.
###
Full Distribution
0 Offie Copy
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
-- FOR RELEASE AT 12 NOON --
Feb. 18, 1970
In the past we have talked of a "soft line" and a "hard line" in foreign
policy. President Nixon's foreign policy for the Seventies is a peace line -- a
realistic strategy for achieving and maintaining world peace.
I firmly believe that the foreign policy guidelines laid down by President
Nixon will lead to a safer world. The key to that safer world, as pointed up by
the President, is crisis prevention in place of attempts at crisis management
around the world.
There will be no return to isolationism under Nixon policy. Neither will
there be ratification of bureaucratic decisions in the foreign policy area.
Instead, as the President has stated, the proper course is for the
Commander-in-Chief to be presented with and to fully examine all of the options --
and then to make his own decisions.
I say that President Nixon's strategy for peace is a fully realistic foreign
policy because it is an extension of his do-it-yourself policy for Asia; it looks
to a fashioning of stronger regional groupings as a vehicle for peace through
strength; it nurtures no illusions regarding Communist purposes; it views Communist
nations individually and in terms of their own special interests rather than as
part of a supposed Communist monolith; it contemplates no withdrawal from the world
since this would only leave the world open to Communist takeover; and it sensibly
scales down our General Purpose Forces concept from readiness for two major and
one minor wars to one major and one minor conflict.
President Nixon's foreign policy for the Seventies is a way to stay in the
world, not a way to get out of it.
The underlying theme of it is a willingness to help those who are willing to
help themselves. We must not be in the front line of every confrontation. Always
there must be a willingness to negotiate and a basis for negotiation.
The President has laid before the Nation and the world a full and concise
explanation of his foreign policy block-building. No mysteries. Simply a realistic
formula for peace built upon three pillars -- partnership among nations, strength,
and willingness to negotiate.
The President's action in presenting this foreign policy paper to the Congress
and to the Nation is unprecedented. With it, the President has taken the people
completely Late, his confidence. I am sure they welcome this sharing.
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
-- FOR RELEASE AT 12 NOON --
Feb. 18, 1970
In the past we have talked of a "soft line" and a "hard line" in foreign
policy. President Nixon's foreign policy for the Seventies is a peace line -- a
realistic strategy for achieving and maintaining world peace.
I firmly believe that the foreign policy guidelines laid down by President
Nixon will lead to a safer world. The key to that safer world, as pointed up by
the President, is crisis prevention in place of attempts at crisis management
around the world.
There will be no return to isolationism under Nixon policy. Neither will
there be ratification of bureaucratic decisions in the foreign policy area.
Instead, as the President has stated, the proper course is for the
Commander-in-Chief to be presented with and to fully examine all of the options --
and then to make his own decisions.
I say that President Nixon's strategy for peace is a fully realistic foreign
policy because it is an extension of his do-it-yourself policy for Asia; it looks
to a fashioning of stronger regional groupings as a vehicle for peace through
strength; it nurtures no illusions regarding Communist purposes; it views Communist
nations individually and in terms of their own special interests rather than as
part of a supposed Communist monolith; it contemplates no withdrawal from the world
since this would only leave the world open to Communist takeover; and it sensibly
scales down our General Purpose Forces concept from readiness for two major and
one minor wars to one major and one minor conflict.
President Nixon's foreign policy for the Seventies is a way to stay in the
world, not a way to get out of it.
The underlying theme of it is a willingness to help those who are willing to
help themselves. We must not be in the front line of every confrontation. Always
there must be a willingness to negotiate and a basis for negotiation.
The President has laid before the Nation and the world a full and concise
explanation of his foreign policy block-building. No mysteries. Simply a realistic
formula for peace built upon three pillars -- partnership among nations, strength,
and willingness to negotiate.
The President's action in presenting this foreign policy paper to the Congress
and to the Nation is unprecedented. With it, the President has taken the people
completely late his confidence. I am sure they welcome this sharing.
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 24, 1970
Statement by Rep. Gerald R. Ford (R-Mich.), Republican Leader,
on the Floor of the U. S. House of Representatives
Mr. Speaker, I am gratified that the responsible leaders of this
Congress, despite their party affiliations and personal opinions on the
policies of the French Government, are joining in the highest American tradi-
tion to welcome President Pompidou at a Joint Meeting of the Congress.
It is important that our Government achieve success in efforts to
develop a better understanding and closer relationship with France. Among
the modern nations of the world, France is our oldest friend. But more than
sentiment motivates my words. I am deeply concerned because the visit of
President Pompidou coincides with very grave developments.
The violence of the Middle East has escalated in recent days. It has
spread to Western Europe. A number of American citizens, innocent passengers
aboard an international airliner, have fallen victim to extremist fanaticism.
One of my own constituents, the wife of a respected Baptist minister of
Grandville, Michigan, has been ruthlessly murdered by terrorists. Her only
offense was to ride a tourist bus to view the holy places near Jerusalem.
Anger and emotion are rising in the Middle East. The conflict is
striking down innocent bystanders and affecting the transportation and communica-
tion links connecting Western Europe and America with the State of Israel. This
is a time for negotiation, not confrontation. It is a time to discuss with
President Pompidou the policies of his government in the Middle East, Europe,
and elsewhere, as they relate to the national security interests of the United
States. It is a time to seek ways of cooling down passions, to seek ways of
working with France to decrease the level of violence in the Middle East
and to limit the introduction into that region of destructive new weapons.
Our Government is now engaged in very serious talks with President
Pompidou. Our historic relationship with France demands that President Pompidou,
as the elected head of his government, be accorded the courtesies that have
been traditional. I do not completely agree with all the policies of the
Pompidou administration nor of the preceding De Gaulle administration. But
(more)
- 2 -
This is a time for statesmanship, nct chowmanship, a time for reconciliation,
not agitation.
We will accomplish nothing by boycotting or blockading, by walking in
or by walking out on President Pompidou. We may accomplish something, --
indeed, we may accomplish very much by exchanging ideas with President Pompidou
in a constructive, relevant, and civilized manner.
It has been a basic tenet of our Government that while we may be
divided at home on foreign policy matters we are nevertheless willing to permit
our Government to deal in an orderly and diplomatic manner with other governments.
The negotiations with France are of such importance that we cannot permit
an impression that this Congress is unvilling to accord the traditional
courtesies to the Republic of France. The violence and killing in the Middle
East are very serious. The situation is daily growing worse.
I would like to suggest a better course than an empty, negative
boycott of President Pompidou. Let us devote the same time and energy to
seeking a lessening of violence. I would like to suggest the alternative of an
international agreement to deal with the rise in airborne terrorism, bombings,
and hijacking; perhaps, a world conference on safety of air passengers. Another
alternative for the time wasted in opposing the Joint Meeting would be a
discussion of ways and means of implementing President Nixon's very recent
report to the Congress on foreign policy. I might add that the Government of
Israel has received this report with deep satisfaction. The President expressed
himself quite clearly on the threats to Israel and it is incumbent upon the
Congress to respond to his forthright leadership on this crucial issue.
Instead of negativism and obstructionism, let us strengthen the hand
of President Nixon when he speaks for all of us with President Pompidou. This
is the way to impress upon the French President the deep conviction and profound
unity of the American people on these matters.
We shall do everything we can in the interest of peace and stability
in the Middle East. But we will do more than talk. The United States cannot
and will not stand by and watch the military balance turn against Israel.
We will not let the situation deteriorate because of ill-advised policies of
other governments.
Of course, we hope that President Nixon's statesmanlike effort to limit
the arms race will generate a positive response from France, from Great Britain,
and, of course, from the Soviet Union. This aim is served by the courtesies
this Congress is rendering to President Pompidou in our common effort to create
better communications. This aim is frustrated by flamboyant gestures that add
to the dismay and discord of a troubled world.
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 9, 1970
Statement by Rep. Gerald R. Ford, Republican Leader, U.S. House of Representatives
I am delighted that the House of Representatives had sense enough not to
try to tie the hands of the President of the United States in the conduct of our
foreign policy.
The House is to be congratulated for having the wisdom to reject the
unwarranted attempt by the United States Senate to infringe upon the powers of
the President as commander-in-chief of our armed forces.
I now hope that the position of the House prevails in conference and that
the Cooper-Church Amendment is removed entirely from the Military Sales Act. The
Cooper-Church language would interfere with the power of the President to protect
the lives of American troops. Such interference is short-sighted and unwise.
###
Full Distribution
O office Copy
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 9, 1970
Statement by Rep. Gerald R. Ford, Republican Leader, U.S. House of Representatives
I am delighted that the House of Representatives had sense enough not to
try to tie the hands of the President of the United States in the conduct of our
foreign policy.
The House is to be congratulated for having the wisdom to reject the
unwarranted attempt by the United States Senate to infringe upon the powers of
the President as commander-in-chief of our armed forces.
I now hope that the position of the House prevails in conference and that
the Cooper-Church Amendment is removed entirely from the Military Sales Act. The
Cooper-Church language would interfere with the power of the President to protect
the lives of American troops. Such interference is short-sighted and unwise.
###
House Halleries Only
Q Office Copy
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE-
August 7, 1970
Statement by Rep. Gerald R. Ford, Republican Leader, U.S. House of Representatives.
I am most encouraged by the news of the cease-fire in the Mideast.
This is, of course, only a first step -- but it is a step leading away from the
dreadful abyss of a full-scale Mideast war and a possible confrontation between
the super-powers. I hope and pray the cease-fire will lead to a settlement of
the Mideast conflict and to a complete and permanent peace in that troubled area
of the world.
###
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE-
August 7, 1970
Statement by Rep. Gerald R. Ford, Republican Leader, U.S. House of Representatives.
I am most encouraged by the news of the cease-fire in the Mideast.
This is, of course, only a first step -- but it is a step leading away from the
dreadful abyss of a full-scale Mideast war and a possible confrontation between
the super-powers. I hope and pray the cease-fire will lead to a settlement of
the Mideast conflict and to a complete and permanent peace in that troubled area
of the world.
###
In House
8-11-70
Mr. Speaker, I raise my voice today in the hope
that peoples of the world of whatever persuasion, creed
or nationality will realize that the death Monday of an
American citizen in Montevideo, Uruguay at the hands of
Communist terrorists is a senseless, savage, cowardly
act; it is now clear for all the world to see how these
people plan to bring about changes in their society.
The wave of revulsion which has followed this brutal act
proclaims the total bankruptcy of terrorism, from
whatever end of the spectrum, as an instrument of
political action.
Dan A. Mitrione, Chief Public Safety Advisor of our
AID program of assistance to the Uruguayan police was
doing his job, helping the Uruguayan police to be more
effective in providing service to the public in a modern
and humane manner. Indeed he was trying to help the
police assume their proper role in Uruguayan society.
His assassination at the hands of the subversive Movement
for National Liberation bodes ill for the continued growth
of this society.
It has been suggested by some that this tragedy raises
questions as to whether the United States should be
instead
engaged in this activity. I submit that it proves to how
important it is for us to persevere in this essential tasked
GERALD LIBRARY
2.
The frequent reference we have heard to "political
prisoners" is totally misleading. The MLN demanded
release of all "political prisoners" held by the Govern-
ment as ransom. It should be noted that these people
are not being held nor were they convicted because of
their political beliefs. They are criminals arrested
for murder, bank robbery, extortion and the like. Con-
stant reference to them otherwise by us all gives an
erroneous impression as to why they are being held by
the Uruguayan Government.
I have seen some reference to this subversive group
that it has a "Robin Hood" image. Dan Mitrione's murder
should dispell any doubt that this group is anything
but a Communist-led gang intent on the overthrow of
the democratically elected Government of President
Pacheco Areco.
I view with equal concern the plight of Mr. Claude
Fly, an American agriculturist in the employee of the
Uruguay Government who is still being held by the
terrorists. I am confident that the Uruguayan government
and particularly the Uruguayan police did all in their
power to obtain the release of Mr. Mitrione. I am
FORD
confident that they will continue to be unwavering in
their efforts to effect Mr. Fly's release and that of the
LIBRARY
3.
Brazilian Consul, Mr. Aloysio Mares Dias Comide.
I commend the tireless efforts the American
Ambassador, Charles Adair, the many officials in the
Department of State who have worked tirelessly for
the past week in an effort to effect Mitrione's
release, and I especially commend Mr. Byron Engle,
Director of the Office of Public Safety in AID for
the leading role he played in this effort. Expressions
of concern by the Pope and SMX lead us to hope that the
subversives will bend to public opinion and release
the remaining hostages.
M r. Mitrione's body is being flown back tonight
to his home town of Richmond, Indiana for burial and
the tribute of his former neighbors and friends. The
Uruguayan Government will pay its last tribute to him
before the plane leaves tonight bearing his body and
grieving wife and children away from the locale of his
murder. His comrades in the police force there will
have the job of bringing to justice those responsible
for his brutal murder.
This government must do all in its power to assist
Uruguayan
the Government to assure that the assassins
pay the price for their crime and that such crimes are
condemned throughout the world.
GERALO FORD
4.
The coldblooded murder of Mr. Mitrione shocks us
all and prompts us to renew our prayers for those
still being held.
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
September 9, 1970
Remarks by Rep. Gerald R. Ford, R-Mich., to be delivered on the floor of the U.S.
House of Representatives Wednesday noon, Sept. 9, 1970.
Mr. Speaker: The airplane hijacking situation has reached international
crisis proportions. The world community must act-and act quickly--not only to
obtain the release of the hijack victims now being held hostage by Arab commandoes
in Jordan but to prevent or at least deter future hijackings.
It would seem that agreement could be reached by the nations involved, not
only on the matter of punishment for hijackers taken into custody but also on
security measures which could be adopted to nip incipient hijackings in the bud.
To that end I urge that the countries which figure in airplane hijackings--
actual or attempted--agree on a number of preventive measures which some have already
adopted at least in part.
I suggest the placing of armed plain clothes security guards on all
international commercial flights, searching baggage and the persons of passengers in
some cases, and instituting an airlines personnel security program.
It is my information that U.S. airlines are employing a passenger profile or
screening system which eliminates hijacking suspects among airline passengers down
to approximately one-half of one per cent. The rest of the passengers then go
through a magnetometer check to see if they are carrying any weapons or bombs.
Now the Federal Aviation Agency and the airlines are talking about an actual
physical search of suspected hijackers on certain risk flights. I urge that such
action be taken.
Another proposal with considerable merit is a boycott by the International
Pilots Association of any country harboring hijackers. A boycott of this kind
could not very well be instituted by a government without offending the other
government involved, but it might well be carried out by an organization like the
IPA.
Mr. Speaker, there is no question that action must be taken to put a stop
to international airplane hijackings. This is a matter of the greatest urgency
and one that calls for the highest degree of international cooperation.
# # #
Full Distribution
O Office
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
September 9, 1970
Remarks by Rep. Gerald R. Ford, R-Mich., to be delivered on the floor of the U.S.
House of Representatives Wednesday noon, Sept. 9, 1970.
Mr. Speaker: The airplane hijacking situation has reached international
crisis proportions. The world community must act-and act quickly--not only to
obtain the release of the hijack victims now being held hostage by Arab commandoes
in Jordan but to prevent or at least deter future hijackings.
It would seem that agreement could be reached by the nations involved, not
only on the matter of punishment for hijackers taken into custody but also on
security measures which could be adopted to nip incipient hijackings in the bud.
To that end I urge that the countries which figure in airplane hijackings--
actual or attempted--agree on a number of preventive measures which some have already
adopted at least in part.
I suggest the placing of armed plain clothes security guards on all
international commercial flights, searching baggage and the persons of passengers in
some cases, and instituting an airlines personnel security program.
It is my information that U.S. airlines are employing a passenger profile or
screening system which eliminates hijacking suspects among airline passengers down
to approximately one-half of one per cent. The rest of the passengers then go
through a magnetometer check to see if they are carrying any weapons or bombs.
Now the Federal Aviation Agency and the airlines are talking about an actual
physical search of suspected hijackers on certain risk flights. I urge that such
action be taken.
Another proposal with considerable merit is a boycott by the International
Pilots Association of any country harboring hijackers. A boycott of this kind
could not very well be instituted by a government without offending the other
government involved, but it might well be carried out by an organization like the
IPA.
Mr. Speaker, there is no question that action must be taken to put a stop
to international airplane hijackings. This is a matter of the greatest urgency
and one that calls for the highest degree of international cooperation.
###
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
FOR RELEASE AT 12 NOON-
December 31, 1970
Remarks by Rep. Gerald R. Ford, Republican Leader, U.S. House of Representatives,
on the floor of the House on December 31, 1970.
Mr. Speaker: All Americans are rejoicing today over the commutation by the
Soviet Supreme Court of the death sentences handed down by a lower court to two
of 11 Jews accused of planning to hijack a Soviet airliner.
Our elation should be tempered, however, by the circumstances which gave
rise to the entire incident--the probable entrapment by Soviet officials, the
mockery of a trial, the stunningly heavy sentences, and now the reduction in
sentences. After all, the reason the incident occurred is that the Soviet Union
virtually bans the emigration of Russian Jews to Israel.
The fact that the Soviet Union is holding Jews in that country against their
will is unconscionable. While it is true that the Soviets, in effect, are keeping
all of their citizens prisoner, the situation is particularly heinous as regards
the Russian Jews. The Jews have somewhere to go, and if they wish to emigrate to
Israel they should be freely permitted to do SO.
# # #
Office Cipy
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR RELEASE AT 12 NOON--
December 31, 1970
Remarks by Rep. Gerald R. Ford, Republican Leader, U.S. House of Representatives,
on the floor of the House on December 31, 1970.
Mr. Speaker: All Americans are rejoicing today over the commutation by the
Soviet Supreme Court of the death sentences handed down by a lower court to two
of 11 Jews accused of planning to hijack a Soviet airliner.
Our elation should be tempered, however, by the circumstances which gave
rise to the entire incident--the probable entrapment by Soviet officials, the
mockery of a trial, the stunningly heavy sentences, and now the reduction in
sentences. After all, the reason the incident occurred is that the Soviet Union
virtually bans the emigration of Russian Jews to Israel.
The fact that the Soviet Union is holding Jews in that country against their
will is unconscionable. While it is true that the Soviets, in effect, are keeping
all of their citizens prisoner, the situation is particularly heinous as regards
the Russian Jews. The Jews have somewhere to go, and if they wish to emigrate to
Israel they should be freely permitted to do SO.
###
NEWS
CONGRESSMAN
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR RELEASE AT 12 NOON--
February 25, 1971
Statement by Rep. Gerald R. Ford
The President's second State of the World Message is an excellent exposition
of American foreign policy.
It is further testimony that President Nixon has taken the American people
into his confidence more fully than any President before him.
The section on Indochina outlines our military and diplomatic moves
directed toward peace in Southeast Asia more clearly than has ever been done before.
The President places the blame for conflict throughout Indochina precisely where
it belongs--on the Communist leaders in Hanoi.
In the section on the Middle East, the President points up the constant
danger of a U.S.-Soviet confrontation there. One of the Administration's great
accomplishments stemmed from the low-keyed manner in which the Administration
steered away from that danger during the Jordanian crisis last September.
All in all, the President's second State of the World Message is a valuable
contribution to an understanding of U.S. foreign policy--not only by the American
people but by peoples throughout the universe.
###
Q Office Copy
NEWS
CONGRESSMAN
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR RELEASE AT 12 NOON--
February 25, 1971
Statement by Rep. Gerald R. Ford
The President's second State of the World Message is an excellent exposition
of American foreign policy.
It is further testimony that President Nixon has taken the American people
into his confidence more fully than any President before him.
The section on Indochina outlines our military and diplomatic moves
directed toward peace in Southeast Asia more clearly than has ever been done before.
The President places the blame for conflict throughout Indochina precisely where
it belongs--on the Communist leaders in Hanoi.
In the section on the Middle East, the President points up the constant
danger of a U.S.-Soviet confrontation there. One of the Administration's great
accomplishments stemmed from the low-keyed manner in which the Administration
steered away from that danger during the Jordanian crisis last September.
All in all, the President's second State of the World Message is a valuable
contribution to an understanding of U.S. foreign policy--not only by the American
people but by peoples throughout the universe.
###
12 moon only 3/5/71
m Office Copy
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
March 5, 1971
Statement by Rep. Gerald R. Ford
All Americans can feel greatly encouraged by President Nixon's remarks
Thursday night concerning the Laotian incursion by South Vietnamese troops aided
by U.S. air support.
The fact that 55 per cent of the traffic coming down the Ho Chih Minh Trail
has been halted is clear evidence of the incursion's success and proof that
taking this action was a matter of sound military strategy.
I personally believe the Laotian incursion by the South Vietnamese will
produce even more dramatic results and will unquestionably mean an acceleration
of U.S. troop withdrawals from South Vietnam.
I commend the President for his candor and the completeness of his answers
during his foreign policy press conference. He has kept every promise he has
made to the American people on Vietnam and he has taken them into his confidence.
#####
FORD i LIBRARY GERALD
NEWS
CONGRESSMAN
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE-
Thursday, May 20, 1971
Statement by Rep. Gerald R. Ford
The U.S. -Soviet agreement to simultaneously negotiate limitations on both
offensive and defensive nuclear weapons is clearly one of the most significant
breakthroughs for peace in the history of the modern world.
While intensive negotiations lie ahead and further agreements may elude us
for an indefinite period, we must recognize this initial agreement as a step
toward preserving world peace and a step toward relief for the American and
Russian peoples from the crushing cost burden of the nuclear arms race.
The U.S. Russian agreement holds a vast potential for benefit to mankind.
It indicates a more enlightened attitude on the part of the Russians. It prompts
me to look for the day when we can come to a substantive arms control agreement.
I feel there is genuine cause for optimism.
# # #
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
June 10, 1971
It is in the best interests of the United States and the interest of world
peace that the long-standing tensions between the United States and the People's
Republic of China be reduced and that we seek to resolve our differences.
President Nixon's announced steps toward ending U.S. controls over non-
strategic exports to the People's Republic of China are a move in that direction
and are therefore to be welcomed. This move will, I believe, lead to improved Sino-
American relations. It is important in achieving genuine progress toward world
peace. There is a definite need for an improved relationship between the United
States and the People's Republic of China. There is need for a constructive
relationship.
The President is proceeding with commendable caution in relaxing our
restrictions on trade with the People's Republic of China. I am pleased that
locomotives are not on the list, since in my view that item is strategic.
I believe the most important aspect of the President's action is the ending
of control over the shipment of wheat, flour and other grains to not only China but
to Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union. This move makes a great deal of sense. It
should benefit the American farmer. In the past we have simply forfeited this part
of the export market to Canada.
#####
office cap y
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
June 10, 1971
It is in the best interests of the United States and the interest of world
peace that the long-standing tensions between the United States and the People's
Republic of China be reduced and that we seek to resolve our differences.
President Nixon's announced steps toward ending U.S. controls over non-
strategic exports to the People's Republic of China are a move in that direction
and are therefore to be welcomed. This move will, I believe, lead to improved Sino-
American relations. It is important in achieving genuine progress toward world
peace. There is a definite need for an improved relationship between the United
States and the People's Republic of China. There is need for a constructive
relationship.
The President is proceeding with commendable caution in relaxing our
restrictions on trade with the People's Republic of China. I am pleased that
locomotives are not on the list, since in my view that item is strategic.
I believe the most important aspect of the President's action is the ending
of control over the shipment of wheat, flour and other grains to not only China but
to Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union. This move makes a great deal of sense. It
should benefit the American farmer. In the past we have simply forfeited this part
of the export market to Canada.
#####
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
Tuesday, October 12, 1971
Comment by Rep. Gerald R. Ford on the President's trip to Moscow
The announcement that the President will visit Moscow the latter half of
next May will be welcomed by the world-at-large.
Hopefully, this summit meeting will prove to be another giant step forward
toward our goal of a generation of peace.
The President's Moscow trip is in line with the basic Nixon premise--that
of negotiation and not confrontation in the conduct of our foreign affairs.
###
Office Copy
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
Tuesday, October 12, 1971
Comment by Rep. Gerald R. Ford on the President's trip to Mos cow
The announcement that the President will visit Moscow the latter half of
next May will be welcomed by the world-at-large.
Hopefully, this summit meeting will prove to be another giant step forward
toward our goal of a generation of peace.
The President's Moscow trip is in line with the basic Nixon premise--that
of negotiation and not confrontation in the conduct of our foreign affairs.
###
Full Distribution
O Office Capy
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
Tuesday, October 26, 1971
Monday, Oct. 25, 1971, was a day of tragedy in the life of the United
Nations.
The expulsion of the Republic of China from the UN will seriously weaken
that organization in at least two particulars.
The precedent established by the refusal of the General Assembly to regard
expulsion of a member nation an "important question" places the membership of
small present members in danger, and the natural reaction of Americans to expulsion
of the Republic of China from the UN could seriously jeopardize the future
financing of the UN by the United States.
Congressional reaction to the expulsion of a nation that has committed no
wrong could be very adverse.
###
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
Tuesday, October 26, 1971
Monday, Oct. 25, 1971, was a day of tragedy in the life of the United
Nations.
The expulsion of the Republic of China from the UN will seriously weaken
that organization in at least two particulars.
The precedent established by the refusal of the General Assembly to regard
expulsion of a member nation an "important question" places the membership of
small present members in danger, and the natural reaction of Americans to expulsion
of the Republic of China from the UN could seriously jeopardize the future
financing of the UN by the United States.
Congressional reaction to the expulsion of a nation that has committed no
wrong could be very adverse.
###
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
December 6, 1971
Remarks by Rep. Gerald R. Ford on the Floor of the U.S. House of Representatives
Dec. 6, 1971.
Mr. Speaker, the fighting between India and Pakistan intensifies while
efforts to bring about a cease-fire and a mutual troop pullback are blocked in
the United Nations Security Council by the Soviet Union.
Mr. Speaker, it is imperative that the United States take the lead in
shifting the India-Pakistan cease-fire resolution away from the Security Council
and placing it before the General Assembly. Only there can the peace-loving
nations of the world work their will.
If this tragic war is to be ended, it is clear that there must be a with-
drawal of Indian and Pakistani troops to their own territories. In short, we must
implement the provisions of the U.S. resolutions introduced in the United Nations.
The Soviet veto does not alter the facts of the situation. Any political settlement
between India and Pakistan can only come about after the fighting stops.
Mr. Speaker, there is $184,350,000 in economic assistance for India in the
pending foreign aid bill. I am sure India will appeal to the United States for aid
in dealing with problems she herself is now creating. I do not believe that the
American public and its representatives in the Congress will be receptive to such
appeals should India continue to employ her troops in efforts to take over
Pakistani territory. I therefore endorse the action of the State Department in
suspending aid to India.
###
Full Distribution
alfice Copy
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
December 6, 1971
Remarks by Rep. Gerald R. Ford on the Floor of the U.S. House of Representatives
Dec. 6, 1971.
Mr. Speaker, the fighting between India and Pakistan intensifies while
efforts to bring about a cease-fire and a mutual troop pullback are blocked in
the United Nations Security Council by the Soviet Union.
Mr. Speaker, it is imperative that the United States take the lead in
shifting the India-Pakistan cease-fire resolution away from the Security Council
and placing it before the General Assembly. Only there can the peace-loving
nations of the world work their will.
If this tragic war is to be ended, it is clear that there must be a with-
drawal of Indian and Pakistani troops to their own territories. In short, we must
implement the provisions of the U.S. resolutions introduced in the United Nations.
The Soviet veto does not alter the facts of the situation. Any political settlement
between India and Pakistan can only come about after the fighting stops.
Mr. Speaker, there is $184,350,000 in economic assistance for India in the
pending foreign aid bill. I am sure India will appeal to the United States for aid
in dealing with problems she herself is now creating. I do not believe that the
American public and its representatives in the Congress will be receptive to such
appeals should India continue to employ her troops in efforts to take over
Pakistani territory. I therefore endorse the action of the State Department in
suspending aid to India.
###
NEWS
CONGRESSMAN
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
FOR RELEASE AT 12 NOON WEDNESDAY--
February 9, 1972
Statement by Rep. Gerald R. Ford
President Nixon's State of the World Message is an honest thorough-going
analysis of our foreign affairs which helps the American people view our foreign
relations in proper perspective and promotes world understanding of our actions.
Regarding the President's comments on his upcoming trip to Peking, I join
with the President in his hope that the trip will establish a basis for future
negotiation with the People's Republic of China of all points of conflict between
our two nations.
I also share the President's view that we will never collaborate with the
Nor th Vietname e to turn South Vietnam over to Communist rule. To me, this is the
nub of the current debate over Vietnam policy. The United States should not be a
party to any so-called peace settlement that would assure a Communist takeover of
South Vietnam.
I would also single out for special mention in connection with the President's
State of the World Message his call for a major series of new trade talks. It is
absolutely mandatory for the future economic well-being of the United States that
a Nixon Round of trade talks be initiated and pursued to a successful conclusion.
Our trade negotiators, because of our New Economic Policy, are in a stronger position
to achieve better terms in dealing with other nations.
#####
FORD is LIBRARY GERALD
NEWS
CONGRESSMAN
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
February 17, 1972
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Rep. Gerald R. Ford today urged that as Americans gather in their churches
this Sunday they offer a prayer for the success of President Nixon's journey for
peace to China.
"Let us pray," Ford said, "that the President's dialogue with the leaders
of the People's Republic of China will mean the taking of a giant step toward the
generation of peace we are all so ardently seeking."
###
House Galleries only
Q Office Copy
NEWS
CONGRESSMAN
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
February 17, 1972
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Rep. Gerald R. Ford today urged that as Americans gather in their churches
this Sunday they offer a prayer for the success of President Nixon's journey for
peace to China.
"Let us pray," Ford said, "that the President's dialogue with the leaders
of the People's Republic of China will mean the taking of a giant step toward the
generation of peace we are all so ardently seeking."
###
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
Friday, May 26, 1972
FOR RELEASE UPON SIGNING OF THE SALT TREATY--
The SALT treaty clearly is the most momentous such international agreement
reached by two major powers in modern history.
This, together with the previously-reached agreement on access to Berlin
and the opening of communications with the People's Republic of China, spells an
end to the cold war era.
The President's mission to Moscow has been even more fruitful than the most
optimistic among us might have imagined. U.S. and Soviet agreements have been
reached in the fields of the environment, health, space, scientific cooperation,
and prevention of incidents at sea, as well as in limitation of strategic weapons.
The President is without question a White House diplomat extraordinary.
He has done a superlative job on his Moscow peace mission.
While the SALT agreement will not in and of itself guarantee world peace,
it is the first weapons freeze of the nuclear age and places a check-rein on the
nuclear arms race between the world's two superpowers. As such, it is an
encouraging move toward international stability.
###
Full Distribution
Office Copy
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
Friday, May 26, 1972
FOR RELEASE UPON SIGNING OF THE SALT TREATY-
The SALT treaty clearly is the most momentous such international agreement
reached by two major powers in modern history.
This, together with the previously-reached agreement on access to Berlin
and the opening of communications with the People's Republic of China, spells an
end to the cold war era.
The President's mission to Moscow has been even more fruitful than the most
optimistic among us might have imagined. U.S. and Soviet agreements have been
reached in the fields of the environment, health, space, scientific cooperation,
and prevention of incidents at sea, as well as in limitation of strategic weapons.
The President is without question a White House diplomat extraordinary.
He has done a superlative job on his Moscow peace mission.
While the SALT agreement will not in and of itself guarantee world peace,
it is the first weapons freeze of the nuclear age and places a check-rein on the
nuclear arms race between the world's two superpowers. As such, it is an
encouraging move toward international stability.
###
Full Distribution
Office Copy
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
Thursday, June 1, 1972
Comment by Rep. Gerald R. Ford on President's SALT Report
The President's report to the Congress and the American people on the
Moscow summit was balanced and realistic, and admirable in its restraint.
While restraining his enthusiasm over the outcome of the summit meetings,
the President nevertheless appeared assured and confident the picture of a
leader who is manifestly capable of directing this Nation along the path of peace.
There will be opposition in the Congress among some hard-line members to
both the ABM Treaty and the agreement limiting numbers of offensive nuclear
weapons. But the "center" agrees with the American people that the President has
signed nuclear weapons limitation agreements which are in the longrange best
interests of the United States.
I predict overwhelming approval of the ABM Treaty in the Senate and of the
offensive weapons agreement in both houses of Congress.
I personally agree with the President's policy of nuclear weapons
sufficiency, as reiterated in his address to the Joint Session of the Congress.
The SALT agreements became possible only because we negotiated from a
position of strength.
###
NEWS
CONGRESSMAN
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
FOR RELEASE AT 6:30 P.M. TUESDAY, JUNE 6, 1972, AND THEREAFTER--
Congressman Gerald R. Ford will leave the United States June 23 on a
two-week trip to the People's Republic of China which the State Department calls
"a pathfinder mission on the part of the House of Representatives."
Ford will be joined on the trip by House Majority Leader Hale Boggs, D-La.
The two congressmen's wives will accompany them. The House leaders are making the
trip at the invitation of the Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs and
the request of President Nixon.
William Brown, deputy director of the China Desk at the State Department,
said the Ford-Boggs trip will "continue the dialogue begun by President Nixon and
entered into by Senate leaders Mike Mansfield and Hugh Scott and will open wider
the door to China that was swung open by the President."
Brown, who will go to China with Ford and Boggs, said the House leaders'
trip to China "could lead to further exchanges in the medical, scientific, sports
and academic fields." It will, he said, contribute to further normalization of
Sino-American relations.
Ford and Boggs hope to meet with high-level Chinese leaders on their trip,
including Chinese Premier Chou En-lai. Plans also call for visits to industrial
plants and agricultural communes, as well as historical and cultural sites.
Ford and Boggs will depart from Andrews Air Force Base in a military jet at
10 a.m. June 23. They are scheduled to arrive in Shanghai June 26 after stopovers
at Hickam Field, Honolulu, and at Guam.
Their tentative itinerary in China includes Peking, Shanghai, Canton, and
various rural areas. They will leave Canton by rail for Hong Kong on July 4.
Ford and Boggs are due to arrive back at Andrews Air Force Base the evening of
July 7.
Ford and Boggs will report to the House of Representatives and to the
President after their return.
Ford will take three staff members with him: Administrative Assistant
Frank Meyer, Legislative Assistant Robert Hartmann, and Press Secretary Paul
Miltich.
###
For Release at 10:30 A.M.
JOINT STATEMENT BY REPS. HALE BOGGS AND GERALD R FORD, July 8, 1972
Gentlemen, this is our first real discussion with newsmen since coming out
of China.
We conferred with President Nixon in San Clemente by telephone late
yesterday immediately after arriving in Washington from Yokota Air Force Base in
Japan. On Wednesday and Thursday we communicated with Washington and met with
U. S. Consular officials in Hong Kong, crossing the border after a train trip
from the Chinese city of Canton. We met for five hours with Premier Chou En-Lai,
for three hours with the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Ch'iao Kuan-Hua, and
with numerous provincial and local leaders in Shanghai, Peking, Shen Yang, Anshan
and Canton.
It has been a remarkable journey.
Only three times in nearly a quarter century has an official U. S. party
been welcomed in that country. Contact between our people and the Chinese people
has been practically non-existent, and the result has been a feeling of distance
and tension between us. There are, therefore, few American experts in China or
on the best present course for Sino-U.S. relations.
After 10 days in China we certainly do not qualify as experts. We, and
nearly all other Americans, have barely begun to understand that immense and
complex land. Our observations and impressions must be measured in light of the
shortness of our visit and our nation's limited familiarity with the closely
guarded details of Chinese foreign and domestic policy.
As soon as we arrived yesterday at Andrews Air Force Base, we telephoned
President Nixon at San Clemente to report the substance of our findings and
recommendations. We will shortly submit a more detailed report to him in
written form. Most of the information we have given and will give to the
FORD (TORAR)
-2-
President we are eager to share with you today. When the House reconvenes, we
will present a formal report to the Speaker and the entire membership.
Both of us hold the view that the process of normalizing State relations
between the U. S. and China should continue. We hope our party conventions this
month and next will help to advance this objective, and that all candidates this
year will approach the matter in a spirit of bipartisanship.
After all, the combined population of China and the U. S. exceeds one
billion people--one third of mankind. If our two nations can learn to live
together in harmony and mutual respect, our children may better hope for a
peaceful world.
We see a bright future ahead in this new relationship of our country with
China, and both of us intend to do all we can to help bring that to pass.
######
OfficeCapy
For Release at 10:30 A.M.
JOINT STATEMENT BY REPS. HALE BOGGS AND GERALD R FORD, July 8, 1972
Gentlemen, this is our first real discussion with newsmen since coming out
of China.
We conferred with President Nixon in San Clemente by telephone late
yesterday immediately after arriving in Washington from Yokota Air Force Base in
Japan. On Wednesday and Thursday we communicated with Washington and met with
U. S. Consular officials in Hong Kong, crossing the border after a train trip
from the Chinese city of Canton. We met for five hours with Premier Chou En-Lai,
for three hours with the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Ch'iao Kuan-Hua, and
with numerous provincial and local leaders in Shanghai, Peking, Shen Yang, Anshan
and Canton.
It has been a remarkable journey.
Only three times in nearly a quarter century has an official U. S. party
been welcomed in that country. Contact between our people and the Chinese people
has been practically non-existent, and the result has been a feeling of distance
and tension between us. There are, therefore, few American experts in China or
on the best present course for Sino-U.S. relations.
After 10 days in China we certainly do not qualify as experts. We, and
nearly all other Americans, have barely begun to understand that immense and
complex land. Our observations and impressions must be measured in light of the
shortness of our visit and our nation's limited familiarity with the closely
guarded details of Chinese foreign and domestic policy.
As soon as we arrived yesterday at Andrews Air Force Base, we telephoned
President Nixon at San Clemente to report the substance of our findings and
recommendations. We will shortly submit a more detailed report to him in
written form. Most of the information we have given and will give to the
-2-
President we are eager to share with you today. When the House reconvenes, we
will present a formal report to the Speaker and the entire membership.
Both of us hold the view that the process of normalizing State relations
between the U. S. and China should continue. We hope our party conventions this
month and next will help to advance this objective, and that all candidates this
year will approach the matter in a spirit of bipartisanship.
After all, the combined population of China and the U. S. exceeds one
billion people--one third of mankind. If our two nations can learn to live
together in harmony and mutual respect, our children may better hope for a
peaceful world.
We see a bright future ahead in this new relationship of our country with
China, and both of us intend to do all we can to help bring that to pass.
######
92d Congress, 2d Session
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House Document No. 92-337
IMPRESSIONS OF THE NEW CHINA
JOINT REPORT
TO THE
UNITED STATES
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
BY
Majority Leader HALE BOGGS
AND
Minority Leader GERALD R. FORD
on their Mission to the People's Republic of China,
June 23 to July 7, 1972
U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE
81-868 0
WASHINGTON : 1972
LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL
Hon. CARL ALBERT,
Speaker, House of Representatives,
Washington, D.C.
DEAR MR. SPEAKER: Transmitted herewith is a report of our recent
journey to the People's Republic of China.
Nearly one quarter of all mankind is Chinese. Together, our popu-
H. Res. 1070
lations total more than 1 billion individuals. Yet, over nearly 25 years,
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, U.S.,
we risked potentially dangerous misunderstandings as our nations
August 3, 1972.
became ever more isolated one from the other.
Resolved, That there be printed as a House document the joint re-
As both governments have now recognized, it is in the interest of
port of the House of Representatives by Majority Leader Hale Boggs
our peoples and in the interest of international peace for us to learn
and Minority Leader Gerald R. Ford on their mission to the People's
to live together in peace and mutual respect.
Republic of China from June 23, 1972, to July 7, 1972 entitled "Im-
We harbor no illusions that the path to that relationship will be
pressions of the New China".
easily or quickly traveled. There are many fundamental differences
Attest:
between our societies. Nevertheless, our visit reminded us again that
W. PAT JENNINGS, Clerk.
people the world over share a common desire for friendship.
(II)
We hope that the observations contained in this report may be of
interest to our colleagues and to the public at large and, in particular,
that our journey will contribute in a small way to a normalization of
U.S. relations with China.
HALE BOGGS,
Majority Leader.
GERALD R. FORD,
Minority Leader.
(III)
CONTENTS
Page
Introduction
1
Summary of Major Impressions
1
Normalizing Relations
4
Indochina
5
Taiwan
6
Sino-Soviet Relations
6
U.S. Prisoners in China
8
Trade
8
Law and Justice
10
Political Stability
10
Exchanges
11
Economy
13
Environment
15
Education and Culture
16
Family Life
20
Health and Medical Care
21
Itinerary
23
Hosts and host organization
24
New China News Agency Dispatches
25
Composition of Delegation
27
(V)
IMPRESSIONS OF THE NEW CHINA
(Joint Report to the United States House of Representatives by
Majority Leader Hale Boggs and Minority Leader Gerald R. Ford
on Their Mission to the People's Republic of China, June 23 to
July 7, 1972)
INTRODUCTION
Our visit to the People's Republic of China, in behalf of the House
of Representatives, was undertaken at the invitation of the quasi-
governmental Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs (CPIFA)
and with the encouragement of President Nixon. It was only the third
visit to China by elected American officials in nearly a quarter century,
preceded only by the President in February this year and by Senators
Mansfield and Scott in late April and early May.
Our mission had two principal objectives: first, to learn as much as
possible about China-its leaders, its people, its economy, its interna-
tional and domestic objectives for the President and the House of
Representatives; second, to contribute to better relations between our
two countries, an objective not only mutually advantageous to the
Chinese and American peoples, but also contributory to the relaxation
of tensions throughout Asia and the world.
We have reported in detail to the President both verbally and in
writing. This report to our colleagues is an elaboration of our report
to him.
We do not pose as experts on China, or on Sino-American relations.
All that we report must be evaluated in light of the views of others in
and out of government who have devoted themselves to a study of
China. We recognize as well as anyone that in a mere ten days in the
vastness of China, we could do little more than become aware of the
enormous amount of information and understanding we lack about
that land.
We are reminded of the blind men who sought to learn about an
elephant, each coming away with a very different impression, and
none with a complete account. In order to enhance the usefulness of
our report, then, we have prepared this report jointly, assembling and
comparing our recollections together as we traveled and worked to-
gether on this remarkable journey.
SUMMARY OF MAJOR IMPRESSIONS
The questions most often asked of us since our return have concerned
our general impressions of China and its people.
We find the most striking first impressions an American receives
today in China are these:
The people appear adequately fed, clothed and housed and therefore
are relatively content. Related to this is a pervasive discipline and
(1)
3
2
The individual is important only as a tiny part of the whole; there
motivation in pursuit of national goals of class consciousness, increased
seems to be no place for individual freedom to dissent, to disagree; to
production, Marxist-Leninist (Maoist) awareness and collective effort
seek, discover or pursue alternatives. The political discourse is a
to upgrade the quality of life.
scramble toward the center to avoid the perilous extremes of "ultra-
Preoccupied with their tremendous struggle to advance since 1949,
the Chinese multitudes seem oblivious to the fact that they lack in
leftism" or "ultra-rightism".
The highly organized system of child-care, from pre-school to after-
their lives the political liberty, social mobility, and individual orienta-
tion that we cherish in the United States. We did not detect, nor did
school-and the use of that system to inculcate in the children a venera-
tion of the State and obedience to its leaders-is awesome in its possible
we sense any real dissent.
The parts of the New China that we saw in the eastern regions seem
implications for the future. Writing, art, music, dance, drama and
a land united and well on the move toward development-a remark-
even supervised play-all teach a complete devotion to the heroes, the
able achievement when it is recalled that China at the end of World
tasks, the purposes and policies of the system.
Few observers have returned from China in recent months with im-
War II was economically prostrate, politically riven and alone, its
pressions significantly different from these we have just mentioned. If
population demoralized, dispirited and despairing.
So widely shared has been the progress since 1949, SO improved the
we can assume these impressions are essentially correct, for the United
lifestyle of the average Chinese, that these people living, by our stand-
States and the rest of the world the portents in the light of other known
ards in relative privation, give every impression of counting their bless-
facts about China are no less than totally profound, and deserving of
ings, grateful for even modest progress, not restive with only the bare
the most serious reflection by this Congress, our leaders, our institu-
necessities of food, clothing, shelter and health.
tions, and our people.
The cities we visited-Shanghai, Peking, Shen Yang, Anshan and
Time does not stand still. The world moves on, and changes. In less
Canton-are strikingly clean. There is virtually no litter. There are no
than two hundred years the United States moved from weak colonial
flies. There are no dogs. No animals or poultry run loose. Most build-
status to the most powerful nation on earth.
ings are well maintained. The virtual absence of passenger cars and
China today is far from being powerful as compared to the United
the silent gliding of large numbers of bicyclists give an air or order-
States and the Soviet Union. Her population of some 800 million needs
liness and peace to the streets. Only Canton still reminds one of the
to be fed, clothed, housed, cared for, occupied and satisfied, and this
congestion and disorder of earlier days, and even there without the
huge population is growing by some 20 million a year.
human distress that once engulfed the streets of Chinese cities.
China's ability to meet its vast domestic needs requires all the energy,
Not one member of our party reported seeing even one Chinese who
discipline and resourcefulness a people can bring to bear. It requires
appeared to be suffering from hunger, or exposure, or who appeared to
political stability at home. It requires freedom from external aggres-
be socially crippled, homeless, idle, or uncared for. In cities Americans
sion, actual or even threatened, whether military, economic or cultural.
saw years ago as dirty and crowded with the hungry and the ragged,
The views expressed to us by Chinese leaders that China is today
the poor and the begging, the sick and the lame, we saw bustle, clean-
preoccupied with her massive internal problems, that she has no present
liness, and a disciplined purposefulness.
notions of international conquest or expansion, that her present aspira-
Despite these positive impressions, there are troubling impressions
tion is only to develop peacefully-these views we find credible for
as well. Chairman Mao Tse-tung, despite rare public appearances, is
today.
ubiquitous: his presence felt everywhere. Enormous color portraits of
We are therefore persuaded that, at present, the world has little to
the Chairman are found atop major public buildings. His portrait
fear from China. On the other hand, from China's point of view, the
adorns the walls of virtually all public rooms, factories, classrooms and
world must be something of a threatening place.
But time will not stand still for China. No matter how weak she
homes we visited. Quotations from Mao's writing-usually exhorting
the population to greater production or increased vigilance-are
may be today relative to other nations, China is a land of vast human
and natural resources.
spread over gigantic banners hung from public buildings, or lettered in
white on huge red billboards. Radios and public loudspeakers give
If she can maintain political stability, if she can upgrade her agri-
forth an undeviating fare of martial music, political instruction, and
culture and industry, if she can remain free from outside interference-
what will China be like in another two or three short decades?
songs whose themes ordinarily extol the nobility of peasant labor, the
heroism of factory workers, the decency and courage of the people's
The answer is obvious. If she manages to achieve as she aspires,
liberation army, and the omnipresence of outside hostile forces.
China in the next half century can emerge a self-sufficient power of a
No non-Chinese newspapers, books, films or magazines are anywhere
billion people-a nation whose agricultural output can provide for
in evidence. Instead, all Chinese books, newspapers and magazines are
her population, whose industrial capacity can be enormous, whose
State produced. "Literature" appears to consist entirely of dogmatic
military capability can be very substantial, with a people united in
devotion and obedience to the State.
collections of news, stories or poems whose unalterable themes are
those of overcoming obstacles, exercising vigilance, and performing
This last impression-of the reality of China's colossal potential-
acts of heroism in the struggle to meet factory or farm production
is perhaps the most vivid of our journey. As our small party traveled
goals.
through that boundless land, this sense of a giant stirring, a dragon
waking, gave us much to ponder.
4
5
There, in that nation where State-directed conformity produces
unity of effort and purpose, and where self-indulgence and licentious-
Strait during this same period. We view these as the kinds of develop-
ness of any kind are not tolerated, we reflected on our own country.
ments which in time will allow a progressive reduction of our forces
We were troubled that, by contrast in our own nation, where people
and military installations on Taiwan, and we are confident that, re-
are free to live and work and choose and read and think and disagree
gardless of the political results next November, the United States will
as they please, there has been widespread division, discord and disillu-
do its part to see that the process of normalizing United States-China
sionment and a pervasive permissiveness straining the fibers of our
relations can go forward.
national character.
We fully support peaceful resolution of the Taiwan question by
In China an American is brought to hope that we will always have
the Chinese themselves, and recognize that this goal is complicated
the self-discipline which fired our ancestors. In our own land of liberty
by the fact that diplomatic relations currently exist between the
and abundance and power-with all the material advantages that
United States and the Nationalist Government of General Chiang
China lacks— there have been corrosive trends that have grown as our
Kai-Shek but do not exist with the People's Republic of China. How
fidelity to old virtues has waned.
this question can be ultimately resolved we do not know, but we look
In disciplined, unified China, American visitors will wonder if our
forward to the day when all Chinese can be represented in
self-indulgent free society will be able to compete effectively fifty
Washington.
years hence with this totalitarian State, possessed of a population
In this respect, we found that our continuing diplomatic relations
which dwarfs our own, with equal or greater natural resources, and
with the Republic of China are for the People's Republic of China
with total commitment to national goals.
a particular barrier to normalized relations.
Such are the questions that occurred to us as we made our way in the
Chinese leaders called to our attention the fact that the war in
Middle Kingdom that is China.
Indochina is also an obstacle to improved relations between our coun-
tries. The Chinese position is well known. Fundamentally it is that
NORMALIZING RELATIONS
Communist North Vietnam is a neighbor and friend whom China
will not abandon. The Chinese insist that they have no territorial
Last February, the U.S. and Chinese stated that "progress toward
designs in Indochina, that they will not intervene in North Viet-
the normalization of relations between China and the United States is
namese affairs, and that they seek a neutral Indochina where no great
in the interest of all countries," that normalization "contributes to the
power has hegemony.
relaxation of tension in Asia and the world", and further, the Chinese
Both of us support the systematic withdrawal and eventual end
noted that "the Taiwan question is the crucial question obstructing the
of U.S. involvement in Vietnam, and therefore we are optimistic that
normalization of relations between China and the United States."
in reasonable time the Vietnam war will no longer obstruct the
In discussions of these and related points with Chinese leaders, we
normalization of Sino-American relations.
received the very clear impression that China remains most interested
Aside from the major questions of Taiwan and Vietnam, there are
in improved State relations with the United States, just as we are with
other ways in which progress toward normalized relations can pro-
China.
ceed. These areas-trade and exchanges of visits, for example-are
We also can confirm that the Taiwan question appears to remain the
discussed later in our report.
"crucial question obstructing the normalization of relations." On this
question, it is well to recall the United States position in the Shanghai
INDOCHINA
Joint Communique last February as follows:
The United States acknowledges that all Chinese on either
We have already mentioned that the conflict in Indochina obstructs
side of the Taiwan strait maintain there is but one China and
improved relations with China. In our discussions with Chinese lead-
that Taiwan is a part of China. The United States does not
ers we were not surprised to find that they regard the United States
challenge that position. It reaffirms its interest in a peaceful
as the aggressor in Vietnam or that they expressed fraternal soli-
settlement of the Taiwan question by the Chinese themselves.
darity with the North Vietnamese. The Chinese view, as is will known,
With this prospect in mind, it affirms the ultimate objective
is that the Vietnam conflict is a civil war whose roots are in mistaken
of the withdrawal of all U.S. forces and military installations
United States foreign policy assumptions of the Dulles era.
from Taiwan. In the meantime, it will progressively reduce
It was also not surprising to us to hear that the Chinese will con-
its forces and military installations on Taiwan as the tension
tinue to give support to the North Vietnamese, although they laid
in the area diminishes.
considerable stress on their having not furnished combat ground
troops.
Since the February Communique, American troop levels in Vietnam
The Chinese endeavored to persuade us that their challenge of
have been measurably reduced. In the same period-in fact in the very
domestic development is all-consuming; that they lack the ability and
midst of our visit to China-the chiefs of state of North and South
interest to wage external aggression; and that consequently we are
Korea met together in a promising beginning toward a relaxation of
mistaken if we are pursuing the conflict in Vietnam or maintaining
tension. Finally, there has been a state of relative calm in the Taiwan
military presence in Asia as part of a policy primarily intended to
contain Chinese expansionism or subversion.
6
7
In reply to these views we reported to our hosts, and emphasized,
political hostility between China and the Soviet Union reduced the
that the American people and their leaders are in complete accord that
likelihood of their close cooperation in such a strategy.
the fighting in Vietnam should end, that American combat troops are
By 1963, Sino-Soviet relations were publicly strained. In that year,
being withdrawn and that the Vietnamese should peacefully deter-
for example, the Chinese newspaper People's Daily, in a significant
mine their own future without outside interference.
editorial attack on Soviet policy and leadership, ridiculed Nikita
We had extensive discussions with Premier Chou En-Lai on a num-
Khrushchev as a "psalm-singing, table-thumping buffoon who belongs
ber of subjects, including Indochina. At his specific request, we have
in the trash heap of history."
reported his views on these matters to the President.
As early as 1960, of course, Soviet technicians and advisors resident
in China to assist in industrial and agricultural development had been
TAIWAN
suddenly withdrawn. They left China with their plans, records and
blueprints, leaving the Chinese understandably angry.
To the Chinese leaders, Taiwan is simply a province yet to be "lib-
Today, normal State relations do exist between the U.S.S.R. and
erated". Among the most common slogans we noted on public walls,
China. There is also a treaty of friendship between them. At the same
banners, billboards, and even children's jerseys was the slogan "We
time, Chinese and Soviet troops have clashed in bloody incidents along
will certainly liberate Taiwan." In the Shanghai Communique the Chi-
the border in Western China and over an island to which both lay
nese reiterated their opposition to any form of "two-China" solution to
claim in the Ussuri River north of Vladivostok. It is generally be-
the question of Taiwan.
lieved that the Soviets have more troops massed and more advanced
Thus, as we have mentioned, the issue of Taiwan remains a major
weaponry poised along the border with China than they do in Europe.
obstacle to the improvement of our relations with China. Although
For its part, China, too, apparently has large numbers of troops de-
this problem must be solved by the Chinese themselves, it poses diffi-
ployed along the border.
culties for the United States in view of our diplomatic relations and
In addition to their vigilance along the border with the U.S.S.R.,
mutual defense treaty with Taiwan.
the Chinese must be giving serious attention to the growth of Soviet
In this matter, as in Vietnam, we believe the Chief Executive in his
influence in India-a nation with whom China also shares a common
conduct of foreign policy should have substantial latitude necessary
and disputed boundary.
to help, where he can, to bring the problem to a solution. Therefore we
Finally, the Soviets have helped supply, train and arm the North
will reserve substantial public comment on this question. Here, as in
Vietnamese in an obvious effort to gain influence with still another
Vietnam, we trust the President will take into account the realities
nation bordering China.
of the situation. We subscribe to the interest expressed by the U.S. side
These strains in Sino-Soviet relations suggest one of many possible
in the Joint Communique that the Chinese on each side of the Taiwan
reasons for current Chinese willingness to seek improved relations
Strait will themselves settle this question.
with the United States. Surely the Chinese are under no illusions that
In saying this we are not advocating "abandonment" of the Chinese
the long-standing and fundamental differences they have with us can
on Taiwan. We simply recognize, as they do, that the situation which
be suddenly wiped away. Yet it is obviously in China's interest to
has existed for more than two decades has tended to create in the minds
work for a world in which there can be relatively peaceful relations
of many the inaccurate impression, to which neither the Nationalist
with the United States. In developing her domestic economy, it would
Government nor the People's Republic of China subscribes, that there
be exceedingly disruptive for the Chinese to be required to be in a
is not one China, but two.
constant state of preparation against possible military interference
The People's Republic of China uses such quasi-governmental or-
by both the United States and the U.S.S.R.
ganizations as the Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs
Our conclusion that the Chinese and the Soviets are in a period of
(CPIFA) and the China Council for the Promotion of International
mutual tension should not be taken to mean that we have nothing to
Trade (CCPIT) to advance Chinese interests where lack of diplo-
fear from possible joint Sino-Soviet designs. Obviously, for example,
matic relations might otherwise be a barrier to international contact.
there is even now cooperation between the Soviet Union and China
Nevertheless, our hosts cited the Taiwan question on a number of oc-
in furnishing the supplies which North Vietnam is using to wage war.
casions as an obstacle even to extensive people to people contact with
Chinese railroads are carrying Soviet equipment. Moreover, the
us, and it is clear that the nature of our current relationship to Tai-
Soviets are still trading with the Chinese; at Peking Airport we no-
wan remains an obstacle to normalized Sino-U.S. relations. We there-
ticed that two new Soviet IL-62 aircraft were parked in front of the
fore look forward to a resolution of this question.
main terminal.
Our recommendation in view of heightened Sino-Soviet tension is
SINO-SOVIET RELATIONS
simply that the United States should, in its self-interest, carry for-
ward the policy of improved relations with China. At the same time,
Throughout their histories, China and Russia have been wary
we must be aware that after nearly a quarter century of mutual isola-
friends if not outright enemies. After 1949, we in the United States
tion, the United States and China have much to learn about each
tended to regard the Sino-Soviet relationship as an international com-
other, and a long distance to travel together, before sturdy founda-
munist conspiracy to subvert and control the world. Yet, as we look
tions of trust and good faith are laid. Therefore we must continue to
back, we cân see that sharp ideological differences and growing geo-
remain defensively strong and alert.
81-868 0-72-2
8
9
U.S. PRISONERS IN CHINA
These points by no means rule out an increase in Sino-American
trade. As long as China believes it can accelerate technological develop-
In view of the concern expressed to us by many people prior to our
ment by trade, for example, it will use foreign exchange gained in ex-
departure, we were particularly interested in pursing with Chinese
ports to purchase sophisticated technology. It can achieve a trade
leaders the matter of U.S. prisoners held in China. The United States
balance by State planning, offsetting a trade imbalance with one nation
Government is aware that there are three individuals who are cur-
by trade with others. While China could finance high-cost, high-tech-
rently prisoners of the Chinese. They are John Downey, Major Philip
nology imports with long-term credit, we found no indication that the
Smith, U.S.A.F., and Lt. Cmdr. Robert J. Flynn, U.S. Navy.
Chinese have significantly altered their vigorous resistance to debt
We appealed to Premier Chou En-lai and others on behalf of these
financing.
men and their families, on humanitarian grounds, that they be ac-
There appear to be a number of areas in which opportunities exist
corded consideration with respect to treatment and release. We pointed
for U.S. exports to China. Obviously, these include advanced aircraft
out that favorable consideration by the Chinese would be an important
and satellite support technology-items China has already purchased.
indication to the American people of China's interest in normalizing
Other areas, too, coincide with China's plans for development. These
relations.
include farm machinery and techniques; iron and steel production;
Another high official with whom we met, Foreign Affairs Vice Min-
on- and off-shore mineral, oil and gas extractive methods; chemical fer-
ister Ch'iao Kuan-hua, made a special point of advising us that he
tilizer production; chemical production; improved breeding stock;
thought Mr. Downey's mother would like to know that he is currently
food processing techniques, computers, copiers, and SO forth.
in good health. We were advised that Mr. Downey's case is different
It is important for us to bear in mind regarding exports to China,
from that of Major Smith and Lt. Cmdr. Flynn, the two American
however, that there are few items even in the category of advanced
fliers who were forced down over Hainan Island, and that the cases
technology which China cannot obtain from other sources. Japan,
will be handled separately. Other than assurances that the Chinese
Germany, France, Britain and the Soviet Union are all important
would take note of our appeals it was not possible to obtain any further
Chinese trading partners. We must therefore be sufficiently competitive
information or assurances about these three Americans.
or Chinese business will go elsewhere. By the same token, Chinese
In the context of our discussions regarding Mr. Downey and the
goods which have a market in the United States are also generally
two fliers, we also inquired about the truth of reports circulating in the
available to us from other sources. These include a variety of food-
United States from time to time that other Americans, captured in
stuffs, handicrafts, minerals, light manufactures, and soft goods. We
Indochina or elsewhere, are being held prisoner on Chinese soil. On
are not, therefore, trading partners essential to each other.
this point the Chinese assured us that they are not aware of any Ameri-
On the other hand, there is important political significance to in-
cans held in China other than the three just mentioned. Moreover, the
creased Sino-American trade. The exchange of goods, like the exchange
Chinese explained that from now on, they expect to handle the matter
of people, can be a bridge to better mutual understanding and im-
of prisoners on a candid and above-board basis, utilizing the channels
proved political relations.
of communications that have evolved between our countries since the
Among serious obstacles to increased trade is the absence of normal
President's visit. We took this to be an assurance that the United States
State relations, yet Japan and the Federal Republics of Germany,
Government will be informed promptly if and when it develops that
though lacking diplomatic relations with China, have a higher volume
any other Americans are held on Chinese soil as prisoners or otherwise
of trade than does France which recognizes Peking. Thus, though
detained against their will.
diplomatic ties with China may be a condition precedent to any dra-
TRADE
matic increase in the range and volume of goods traded, this is not to
say that some significant trade cannot occur before that event. Ob-
After informal trade discussions with political leaders and officials
viously, some trade can itself play an important part in bringing about
of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade
diplomatic ties. The imminent purchase by China of Boeing aircraft
(CCPIT), it appears to us that the Chinese side is prepared to have
is a good example of a large transaction which required official U.S.-
trade between our countries develop in some measure, but slowly. We
Government participation, at least to the extent the grant of a federally
did not find among our hosts the same high degree of enthusiasm for
issued export license was required to make the transaction possible.
early and measurable increases in trade which has stimulated the in-
Nevertheless, the Chinese seemed to be telling us that before too
terest of American businessmen. Indeed, in pursuing the matter of
long, if trade relations are to improve, progress will have to be made
mutual contact generally, we at no point found the Chinese more
in resolving a number of items: the conflict in Indochina; the status
reserved than in talks respecting bilateral trade.
of our relationship to Taiwan; current tariff and non-tariff barriers;
China's foreign trade policy is governed by three fundamental con-
siderations: first, trade should be conducted on the basis of equality and
the current disagreements over frozen Chinese assets; claims of U.S.
mutual benefit; second, trade must complement domestic objective
citizens for property seized by China; and U.S. policy respecting end-
of self-reliance; third, the cost of imports should not exceed the pro-
use and export licensing. Clearly further mutual effort must be given
ceeds from exports.
to the area of trade development and promotion.
11
10
We do not say that the Chinese are uninterested in pursuing trade
One final point is this: We have no way of calculating the political
with the United States. But it is important for us to bear in mind
role played by the military in China today. It was not evident to us
that the Chinese are very sensitive to the possibility of exploitation,
how much of a part the army has in provincial and municipal govern-
and they are striving to be self-sufficient. In a recent speech the Chinese
ment. We were advised prior to our visit that military personnel
Vice Minister of Trade sounded a theme which we heard repeatedly
occupy top positions in the provincial and municipal Revolutionary
during our visit, namely that "international trade should be based on
Committees, but we were unable to confirm this. It may be noteworthy,
equality and mutual benefit." In view of the experience of China in
however, that we met only the nonmilitary Vice Chairmen, but never
matters of trade with the West over the last 150 years, this is an under-
the military Chairmen, of these Revolutionary Committees. These
standable concern.
Vice Chairmen were also men and women of apparent energy and
LAW AND JUSTICE
ability.
The Revolutionary Committees at the provincial, municipal, com-
The legal system, an important part of any system of government,
mune and factory levels have been the principal organs of government
appears to be undergoing very fundamental experimentation. The legal
since the Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution. These committees
profession itself has been abolished. Petty disputes and infractions
are composed of representatives of the army, party cadre and masses.
are handled by the Revolutionary Committees in the communities in
The smallest unit is apparently the Neighborhood Committee, which
which the offenses or disputes occur. Behavior control seems to be
is constituted at mass meetings. There has apparently been no national
based less on a fear of physical punishment or confinement than on
representative unit functioning since the National People's Congress
persuasion, psychological pressures, public shaming and such re-educa-
last met in early 1965.
tion devices as political study and manual labor. There may be much
Our Chinese hosts, in discussion of current political topics involving
for us to ponder with respect to the Chinese belief in the social re-
the United States, invariably assured us that they did not want their
educability of wayward citizens, and their claimed rejection of con-
comments to be construed as an intrusion in our internal affairs. This
finement in the rehabilitation process. There is also, unfortunately, a
is subject to the interpretation that by our own questions and observa-
definite reluctance on the part of the Chinese to permit Western
tions we should take care not to intrude in their internal affairs.
visitors access to information on their legal system as it relates to
Naturally we intended no such intrusion by our curiosity then, nor
crime. While this is somewhat understandable in a society which is
do we by this report.
experimenting with the whole question of law and justice, we hope
Despite Mao's frequently quoted maxims to "trust the masses" and
the Chinese will before long permit us to share in their search for
"serve the people," and despite the political forms evolved to "consult
better ways to deal with antisocial behavior.
the masses," the system of government in China is a pyramid whose
decisions are made at the top. Perhaps never in history have SO many
POLITICAL STABILITY
been ruled SO completely by so few.
In view of the complexity of the domestic Chinese political situa-
EXCHANGES
tion, a subject which has occupied the increasing attention of Sinol-
ogists in the West, we can offer only the most general observations.
Among the activities which holds the most promise for developing
Obviously, if the evident progress toward a united, productive and
understanding between our two countries is people-to-people contact
self-reliant China is to be sustained, there must be political stability,
and exchanges. The Shanghai Communique took specific note of this
and whether such stability exists depends not only upon China's rela-
fact. Both sides agreed that "it is desirable to broaden the understand-
tions with its international neighbors, but perhaps more importantly
ing between two peoples" and that each side would undertake to "facil-
on her ability to govern effectively at home.
itate the further development of such contact and exchanges" in such
As for the present, Chinese Communism appears fortunate to have
fields as science, technology, culture, sports and journalism.
among its senior leaders a man as worldly, tireless and adroit as
Our own visit, which was as graciously hosted as a visit could be, is
Premier Chou En-lai. At an age when most men are relaxing in retire-
a tribute to the sincerity of the Chinese in encouraging contact. And
ment, Chou seems a man of spring steel, abundant energy, high in-
other Members of Congress will no doubt be pleased to know that
telligence and great international sophistication. In giving credit to
Chinese leaders at the highest levels expressed a willingness to host
President Nixon for his bold initiative in opening the way for im-
other American political leaders on a bipartisan basis SO long as the
proved relations with China, we should not forget that Premier Chou
time and personnel are available on the Chinese side to accommodate
and his associates were equally bold in that undertaking. The fact
them.
that a closed society which has made the United States anathema
This last point highlights two interesting facts: first, the Chinese
would be a party to this effort is as encouraging as it is remarkable.
not only favor increased contact with the West, they already appear to
The Premier is certainly among the most seasoned and perceptive
have a very ambitious program of hosting foreign guests. This activity
national leaders in the world today. The course of China's internal
naturally puts a strain on their ability to supply interpreters and pro-
and external policies in the future will depend in large measure on
vide transportation, housing and other services to visitors. Second, the
how effective he is in transmitting his vigor and his outlook to younger
interest the Chinese have in encouraging visits to their country is a
leaders.
12
13
measure of their confidence that, once exposed to the New China, a
assment or ridicule at academic institutions which may also have
visitor genuinely interested in truth and objectivity will return home
Taiwan students enrolled. We sought to ease Chinese apprehensions
favorably impressed. This is not a misplaced confidence. As we have
on this point by stressing that we felt the atmosphere at U.S. colleges
mentioned, the clean streets, the friendly and hardworking people, the
and universities would be one of interest, respect and hospitality to
rich agricultural areas and the throbbing industrial cities are testi-
Chinese students and scholars. We also inquired about the possibility
mony to the successes of the New China in welding a nation out of the
of long-term academic programs for American scholars in China.
chaotic post-war period.
We did not get a great deal of encouragement on this point; the Chi-
While China favors increased people-to-people contact, she seems
nese appear to favor shorter exchanges by more scholars rather than
much more interested in hosting visitors than sending her own citizens
longer visits by a few.
to the United States. There are three reasons for this. First, our recog-
We have mentioned our interest in sharing views with the Chinese
nition of Taiwan troubles the Chinese to such an extent that China is
on policy toward criminal elements. Perhaps exchanges of people
reluctant to expose her citizens to possible embarrassment from criti-
working in this field would be possible.
cism or ridicule by Americans or others who may question the legiti-
We also favor programs which will bring our young people to-
macy of their government. Second, there is a genuine fear of physical
gether; after all, it is with our youth and succeeding generations in
harm to Chinese citizens traveling in the United States. They have
mind that we seek friendship with China.
read our crime statistics. They are aware that the United Nations
During our visit we were exposed to cultural and gymnastic pro-
diplomat charged with the security of U.N. diplomats was himself
grams which we believe would be very well received in the United
mugged and robbed in New York. Finally, there may also be a reluc-
States. Not only in table tennis do the Chinese excel. The music, dance
tance on the part of the Chinese to expose their people to our way of
and both traditional and contemporary gymnastic events were SO ex-
life-political liberty, wealth, social mobility, and SO forth.
cellently done that we encouraged the Chinese to consider sending
The acceptance of the Chinese table tennis team in the United States
such troupes to our country.
has helped to dispel, we believe, the foregoing fears. Chinese leaders
Finally, Chinese leaders expressed an interest in sharing informa-
were unanimous in their appreciation for the warm and safe recep-
tion and possibly exchanging people in the area of anti-pollution
tion given their team, and we assured them that the American people
activity.
will be equally courteous and enthusistic hosts for other Chinese,
Having been part of the exchange process ourselves, we appreciate
whether official guests or visitors or a people-to-people basis.
its importance in broadening understanding and we hope for an in-
Of all the areas of exchange, the Chinese appeared most interested
crease in contact in both directions.
in pursuing those in the medical field. This is an area in which the
Chinese trade relations maxim of "equality and mutual benefit" has
ECONOMY
particular application. Chinese political as well as medical leaders
expressed great interest in learning about American efforts in the
There are few areas more difficult to gain hard information about in
fields of cancer, heart disease, and stroke. And, of course, the Chinese
a short visit to China than the national economy. Either there is an
are justly proud of their remarkable achievements in acupuncture
inadequate mechanism for gathering economic statistics, or such statis-
anesthesia and therapy. In this area, we have much to learn from
tics as are gathered are simply not in any systematic or forthcoming
each other for the ultimate benefit of our people, and SO we are opti-
way divulged to the general public much less to foreign visitors.
mistic that contact in this area will be active.
In view of the paucity of economic data, we were particularly pleased
In the field of journalism, the Chinese have been very cooperative
to have had prior to our journey copies of the excellent study by the
in hosting American journalists and were especially SO in hosting the
Joint Economic Committee entitled People's Republic of China: An
media representatives who accompanied us. Naturally, there are more
Economic Assessment, released late in May of this year, and also the
journalists who are seeking visas than the Chinese have yet accommo-
hearings on that study which occurred in June just before our de-
dated, but this seems to be more a function of ability to handle num-
parture. We took this study with us and distributed copies to Chinese
bers than any policy to restrict access of the American press corps.
officials. We hope that we may have some eventual response from the
Our arrival in Peking, for example, was preceded by visits of journal-
Chinese side as to their assessment of information in the study.
ists from The New York Times and the St. Louis Post-Dispatch,
We can offer only these generalizations about the Chinese economy
and a Washington Post journalist arrived during our mission.
as a result of our visit:
The Taiwan question appears to be an obstacle to the establishment
Production, both agricultural and industrial, was set back measur-
of news agencies in our respective countries, but we favor this and re-
ably by the Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution. The Chinese can-
lated steps toward improved communication, and we hope China will
didly admit this, and they do SO without much evident regret. They
send more of her journalists to this country.
apparently believe that a production setback was an acceptable price to
In the academic area, too, the Chinese seem reluctant to send stu-
pay for ideological renewal. Even so, among the most common slogans
dents to American universities. This reluctance is related to the
found on banners and posters in the cities, in the countryside and in
Taiwan question; China does not want her students exposed to har-
factories is the exhortation to "Unite To Win Still Bigger Victories
14
15
and Increase Production." We were also frequently advised that while
to the State to earn revenue to purchase equipment and other necessi-
the Cultural Revolution was necessary, future ideological purifications
ties for the commune. Commune members share according to "work
will likely take a less drastic and economically disruptive form.
points" in the remaining balance of the proceeds. Also unlike factory
Wages of factory workers and peasants are very low by American
workers, there seems from our limited observation to be a better chance
standards, but then SO are prices. We saw no evidence that families in
for a commune member to own his own home. At both communes we
which the husbands worked were wanting for the necessities of life and,
met with homeowners who had built and furnished their own living
since many families appear to have both parents as well as some chil-
unit from savings. Commune families we visited are also allowed to
dren employed, there is even the opportunity to save for such "luxury"
cultivate small vegetable plots and maintain a few ducks, chickens
items as radios, sewing machines, electric fans and bicycles.
and pigs of their own. The sheer size of Chinese communes, if those
Department stores and food stores appear well stocked with mer-
we visited are typical, might surprise those Americans who have con-
chandise and busy with shoppers. The range of color and design of
sidered "living in a commune." The Red Star Commune has a popu-
clothing and fabric was somewhat surprising in view of reports that
lation of 75,000 and the August 1st Commune has 20,000. Each com-
the Chinese tend to dress primarily in gray or blue clothing. Most
mune is divided into households, then production brigades and finally
people do, in fact, dress in clothing of those colors, but children's cloth-
into production teams. In the August 1st Commune for example there
ing and women's blouses are beginning to show signs of color and
are 4,000 households, 15 production brigades and 73 production teams.
decorations. It is of interest, though, that the decoration at least on
This same August 1st Commune, though its primary production is
children's clothing often serves political ends-for example, one of
rice, has 5500 hogs, 800 work animals, and estimated million fish,
our party bought a jersey for a toddler which bears the popular Chinese
50,000 ducks, 63 tractors, 300 rubber wheeled carts, 87 wells, and 47
slogan, "We Will Certainly Liberate Taiwan
pump stations. A vast system of irrigation ditches carries water and
All tillable land is used for agriculture. Crops are planted not only
fertilizer to the rice fields.
in areas close to the cities and, for example, up to the edge of airstrips,
Looking to the future of China's economy, the fundamental reality
but also within the city liimts. Only in rare instances did we see land
seems to be that China has an immense and growing population to
given over to the relative wastefulness of grass.
feed, clothe, house and care for, and that increased production is essen-
Working conditions for factory workers are in major respects close
tial simply to keep pace with population pressures. Most projections
to uniform throughout China. At both a jeep production facility in
show that the population of China will reach one billion by 1980.
Peking and an iron and steel works in Anshan, for example, the work
This means that it is desirable for the pace of industrialization and
week is six days, forty-eight hours, three shifts. Workers generally
of mechanization of agriculture to accelerate; it means that China
get one hour for lunch, though in the South the lunch hour is some-
must have political stability; and it means that the disruptions of the
times two hours. Retirement is at age sixty for men and fifty-five for
Cultural Revolution must not be repeated or not recur in such a form
women at seventy percent of salary. A worker's wage typically ranges
as will bring on a paralysis of industry or agriculture.
in eight steps from approximately eighteen to fifty-five dollars a
month. Housing for workers usually consists of small three-room
ENVIRONMENT
apartments arranged in close proximity to the plants, and workers are
charged two to five dollars a month rent. Day-care and week-care
Air and water pollution appeared to be as much of a concern to the
nurseries are available for children of workers at nominal charge.
Chinese as to ourselves, and they expressed interest in U.S. efforts at
Medical care for workers is free, and children are covered for 50%
control and abatement.
of medical costs. Women are given fifty-six days maternity leave. The
Air pollution is an evident problem in industrialized areas such as
only vacation time with pay for workers occurs on the three or four
Anshan, Shanghai, and Canton. Black smoke pours from factory chim-
national holidays, although some workers told us that they would be
neys with little apparent effort underway to stop it. Moreover, we un-
entitled to ten or twelve days of home leave to rejoin their families
derstand that all cities undergo marked increase in air pollution in the
if their families resided a substantial distance away.
winter months when the general public burns large quantities of coal
Working conditions for peasants working in communes are also, we
for heat.
were told, fairly uniform throughout China, varying only according
Water pollution is much less of a problem, for two reasons. First,
to planting and harvest cycles. A typical day in the paddies and fields
the level of industrialization is relatively low, and therefore there is
begins about six a.m. and continues to sundown with a long midday
relatively little discharge of industrial waste into waterways. Second,
break for meals and relaxation. We visited two communes, the Red
the Chinese do not to any significant degree discharge human-waste
Star Commune near Peking and the August 1st Commune near Shen
into rivers and streams-instead, human waste is collected, treated and
Yang. Each commune had its own nurseries, schools, medical facili-
used as fertilizer. This latter is an excellent example of serving a two-
ties, machine shops, food and dry goods stores. Unlike factory work-
fold purpose of keeping waterways clear and clean and, at the same
ers, commune members share in the profit generated by their produc-
time, recycling waste to meet another socially important purpose.
tion. That is, the commune delivers a fixed percentage of its
The absence of motor vehicles in any large numbers in Chinese cities
production to the State, deducts its own needs, then sells the balance
produces another positive environmental result. Not only is air pollu-
tion potential reduced, but there is virtually no noise pollution. The
16
17
nearly silent swish of hundreds of bicycles is a far more liveable sound
Tschaikowsky and some first-rate ballet sequences to present highly
than the racing of hundreds of engines and the honking of hundreds of
moralistic and patriotic stories of peasant or workers heroes and hero-
horns. Another positive environmental effort made by the Chinese is
ines who are guided by Mao Tse-tung's thought to overcome the schem-
in the area of flood control. Extensive networks of dikes and irrigation
ings of "class enemies," "despotic landlords," or Japanese invaders.
canals have been constructed to tame Nature and serve agricultural
On the radio we heard little traditional music, with most musical
objectives.
programs restricted to excerpts from Peking Opera and a limited
The Chinese follow another public policy worthy of our attention,
number of patriotic songs usually embodying specific references to
and that is their policy with respect to dogs. We read just prior to our
Chairman Mao.
journey of the controversy in New York City between dog owners and
Foreign language bookstores contained only Marxist-Leninist ideo-
non-dog owners regarding the deposit of dog waste on public ways. In
logical works and we were told that literary production had ceased
China, dogs are simply forbidden from cities completely-we saw no
during the Cultural Revolution. The classes in Chinese literature that
dogs at all in any city we visited. The prime reason for this is protec-
we observed were devoted to the study of Mao's "Talks to the Yenan
tion of the public health, but of course in China a dog is also a non-
Forum" or to ancient classics.
productive consumer which the society declines to indulge.
We saw no one carrying or reading the Red Book of Quotations
The anti-dog policy is related in philosophy to the famous "Four
from Chairman Mao, but reference was often made to the application
Pests" campaign instituted after 1949. This campaign was an effort
of Chairman Mao's thought to the solution of practical problems. Slo-
to exterminate flies, rats, mosquitoes and sparrows on the ground that
gans or quotations from Mao writings appear on billboards, on the
these four pests jeopardized the public health and robbed the country
front of buildings, and on special red concrete slabs erected at the en-
of food. It is well to remember, particularly when we consider the
trances to courtyards, factories, and agricultural communes.
hurdles we ourselves face in improving public sanitation, that before
In a noticeable contrast to contemporary America was the obvious
1949 Chinese cities were notorious for their filth. Communicable dis-
de-emphasis of sex, not only because of the homogeniety of clothing
ease was spread by rats, flies and mosquitoes, and large quantities of
but also because the official policy views romantic attachments as an
crops stored wheat, rice and other foodstuffs were consumed by rats
interference and distraction from dedication to one's work. The con-
and sparrows. Today, as we witnessed, the streets are almost spotlessly
trast with contemporary America was even more striking when we
clean, flies have almost totally disappeared, and we were assured that
asked a group of university students in Canton whether they had any
crop and grain storage levels prove that rats and sparrows have almost
"special" girl friends. They replied, "We are too young for that
vanished. The campaign continues today; many of us noticed young
When we asked their ages, they turned out to be 21 to 23 years old.
boys and girls who, going on about play or other business, held a fly
Official policy discourages marriage before the age of 25.
swatter over their shoulders, at the ready. Another example of the
What was left of organized religion seems to have been a casualty of
pollution consciousness of Chinese, of course, are the white cloth face
the Cultural Revolution's campaign against the "Four Olds"-old
masks one sees covering the nose and mouths of cyclists and
thinking, old habits, old customs, and old traditions-and we were told
pedestrians.
that the Red Guards had raided and closed the churches after arms
EDUCATION AND CULTURE
were discovered in a church and evidence produced that a churchman
was a spy. When we asked to attend church services in Shanghai we
It was evident during our visit that cultural and educational life
were told that no churches were functioning. We saw several closed
in China continues to feel the effects of the Great Proletarian Cultural
churches in Peking and Canton, including the former Roman Catholic
Revolution which convulsed the country between 1966 and 1969.
Cathedral which was said to be used as an office now. "The White
"Struggle, criticism and transformation" is still in progress in evolv-
Haired Girl" contained elements linking Buddhism to the rule of land-
ing policy for the arts and schools.
lords in pre-1949 China.
We attended two cultural performances in Manchuria and Canton,
The Government is using education and culture to create a unified
saw a film version of The Peking Revolutionary Opera, "The White
people. To this end, while songs and dances from border areas and
Haired Girl." We also visited two kindergartens, two secondary (Mid-
ethnic minorities are presented, all instruction as well as all stage pro-
dle) schools, and one university. It appeared in these visits that cul-
ductions are in Mandarin, even in the Cantonese-speaking areas of
tural and educational life is being reestablished in China on the basis
southern China. At a cultural production in Canton, for example, we
of Chairman Mao's injunction that literature and art and all intel-
were puzzled to see the Chinese characters for the words being sung on
lectual life must be related to the needs and interests of workers,
the stage flashed on the wall until we realized that nearly everyone in
peasants, and soldiers. Mao Tse-tung's "Talks at the Yenan Forum on
the audience was using them to understand what was being said. The
Literature and Art," published thirty years ago, was being widely
written language is common, but spoken Cantonese and Mandarin are
studied at the time of our visit as a source of guidelines for literary
mutually incomprehensible. Some members of our party visited the In-
and artistic expression.
stitute of Minorities in Peking where future leaders from such border
On the stage and in films new or revised versions of productions of
areas as Tibet, Mongolia, and Hainan were being imbued with national
the Peking Revolutionary Opera combine a few traditional elements
values before returning to their native areas.
such as sword dances, with music that is vaguely reminiscent of
18
19
Since the Cultural Revolution, during which the universities and
are the children of peasants or workers and most of the rest came
most secondary schools ceased instruction, the Chinese educational sys-
from the army. 20% are women. Half are members of the Communist
tem has been reorganized and focused on the application of learning to
Party and an additional 40% belong to the Communist Youth League
the problems of peasants, workers, and soldiers-and on the direct ex-
(the Chinese equivalent to the Russian Komsomol). A new class of
posure of students and teachers to those problems. Schooling has also
800 students is about to enter and we were told that the percentage
been shortened and Mao Tse-tung's writings receive great emphasis at
of party activists is equally high among them. The natural sciences
all levels.
library at the university appeared well-stocked with scientific books
The Chinese educational system begins with nurseries which are
in English, French, German and Russian, as well as in Chinese, and
available to working mothers in the cities who have no relatives to care
a large variety of animal, bird and insect specimens were displayed
for their babies, from the time the children are three months old until
in a university museum. It was a disappointment for us to be told
the age of 3. The next stage is the nursery school for children from 3
here, however, as at other educational institutions we visited, that
to 7. We visited two such schools, one of which boarded children from
courses in political subjects were not in progress and therefore could
six days a week at a cost of about $5 a month. Like the Children's
not be visited.
Palaces in Shanghai and Peking (massive playground complexes in
We were told that the emphasis in instruction is placed upon self-
which thousands of children participate) they use music, art, dancing
study and group discussion, though we saw traditional style teaching
and sports to emphasize patriotic themes and the thought of Mao
being carried out. Despite press reports to the contrary, we were told
Tse-tung. We did not visit any primary schools but were told that pri-
that entrance examinations are being used in addition to secondary
mary schooling lasts six years. We did visit two secondary schools
school records and recommendations, but a superficial impression was
(Middle Schools), one on a commune and the other in an urban indus-
that the academic level of the university was not high. It should be
trial area. Where secondary schooling had before the Cultural Revo-
noted that much of the technical education is carried out in specialized
lution been divided into two three-year sections with many students
institutes which we did not see. The students received para-military
discontinuing their education at the end of what we would call junior
training from the university and the army is represented here as
high school, all students are expected to complete schooling which has
elsewhere on a Revolutionary Committee which has run the university
now been shortened to three or four years. This is followed by two
since the Cultural Revolution, and is supposed to include representa-
years of work in the factories or fields. The students in the urban sec-
ondary school we visited were older than they would normally be at
tives of mass organizations as well. In the latter category we learned
that grade level, because their school was closed for two years during
that each academic department has a worker assigned to it who is to
the Cultural Revolution. Their curriculum has been revised to in-
advise the professors on the practical application of their teaching.
clude such subjects as agronomy (in an urban area), two hours a week
We interviewed a group of students in the dormitory where eight
of political studies, work in a shop attached to a nearby factory, and
sleep in a large room on double-deck bunks and study together at a
two months a year (one in summer and one in winter) of work in fac-
large table as we entered, they were studying "Mao's Talks at the
tories accompanied by their teachers. Classes are held from 8 a.m. until
Yenan Forum." They told us that they were students of Chinese
:30 p.m. six days a week SO that the class time is not shortened ex-
literature and were preparing to be literary critics. On a typical day
cessively. We were particularly impressed by the level of the ninth
they arise at 6 a.m., like everyone else in China it seemed, do calis-
grade English class which we observed, which was conducted entirely
thenics and eat breakfast. This is followed by classes from 7:30 until
in that language and in which the students demonstrated a high level
11:30. After the usual noon break for lunch and a nap, they resume
of proficiency. Despite the fact that Shenyang is near the Soviet Union
classes from 3 until 5:30 p.m. This is followed by calisthenics and
we were told that half the students chose English as their language
dinner, study from 7:00 until :30 and lights out at 10 p.m.
elective, the other half choosing Russian. All classes had a high level
A new element in Chinese education since the Cultural Revolution
of political content. Art classes sketched heroes and heroines from the
is a vest network of May 7th Cadre Schools for the education and
Revolutionary Opera and music classes sang songs of the People's
re-education of people in positions of responsibilities. Party, govern-
Liberation Army or in praise of Mao Tse-tung.
mental, organizational, and intellectual leaders are supposed to at-
The university we visited, Sun Yat-sen in Canton, was less impres-
tend these schools for periods of 1-6 months (we found at least one
sive. The Cultural Revolution seemed to have done serious damage to
instance of a person who had been in such a school for three years.
higher education. All universities were closed down and professors sent
These schools are named for the date of the statement by Mao creating
to work for periods of six months to two years in factories or fields.
such schools at the beginning of the Cultural Revolution and are lo-
Courses have been reduced in length from 5-6 years to 2-3 years, and
cated on agricultural communes or, less often, in factories. The May
small entering classes are composed of those who have spent at least
7th schools combine manual labor with the study of the works of Mao,
two years in factories or fields or the army after Middle School, and
and intensive discussion is given to the application of his thought to
who are recommended by their organizations. At Sun Yat-sen, only
practical problems, in particular those facing peasants and workers.
one class has been admitted since the Cultural Revolution, that one in
Mornings are spent in the fields and afternoons are devoted to study
December 1970. It is comprised of 550 students. Of that group, 90%
and discussion of Mao's principal works especially "On Practice,"
21
20
for older children, are set up to occupy and train youngsters after
"On Contradictions," and "On the Correct Handling of Contradic-
school.
tions among the People." There is also study of extracts from the works
In spite of the efficiency of this approach to child care, there are
of Marx, Engels, Lenin, and Stalin pictures of whom we saw in the
obvious grave implications. First of all, parents see their children far
back of classrooms while the ubiquitous picture of Mao was hung in
too infrequently. We sensed a certain sadness about this even among
front. Sometimes workers and peasants are interviewed or conduct
those parents who most vigorously praised the system. Second, the
class SO that the "cadres" can learn about their problems. The schools
children at their most impressionable years are vulnerable subjects
operate to raise the level of political consciousness, to develop a sense
for active political indoctrination. "As the twig is bent," the saying
of rededication to the ideals and thoughts of Mao, to prevent "elitism"
goes, "so grows the tree." We witnessed the political education of
among the middle level leadership and to re-educate, sometimes for
children not yet three years old. In song and dance and art children
rather long periods, those who appear to be inclined toward "revision-
are taught to give unquestioning gratitude and praise to the State and
ism." Here as elsewhere group pressures and psychological techniques
its leaders, to the army, the workers and peasants.
are used which are not too far removed from those used by religious
It is true that where grandparents live at home the children are
groups in the West.
often in their care. But the direction of State policy seems to be to
It is understood that the leaders will return to those schools from
employ all those who are able to work, and the upbringing of the
time to time, but it was assumed by Chinese with whom we talked that
children therefore falls to the State.
this would not be enough to prevent the emergence of "revisionism."
In the future further Cultural Revolutions but "in a different form"
HEALTH AND MEDICAL CARE
are seen as necessary. Whether they can be carried out without ex-
tremism and the adverse economic effects of the convulsion of 1966-69
People of all ages seemed well nourished and healthy. Most seemed
no one would care to speculate.
to be involved in strenuous farm or city labor, but seemed to enjoy and
thrive on hard work. Dental care, however, seemed deficient, and the
FAMILY LIFE
high incidence of cigarette smoking suggested a general lack of knowl-
edge about the potential harmful effects.
It is well known that few societies have as great a traditional rever-
In understanding medical care and delivery the key word is relative
ence for family ties as the Chinese. From our observations, there are
that is, relative to what it had been prior to 1949. With that in mind
serious strains on this tradition in China today, and they are primarily
and not comparing it to Western standards, a better conception of their
the result of the work patterns of the parents.
progress in health and medical care can be understood.
Today in China women enjoy, if that is the correct term, an equality
During the Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution, medical schools
with men. This means that they are politically and socially equal with
were closed and medical journals stopped printing. Since that time the
men. They serve as members and officers of Revolutionary Committees
concept of "Serve The People" has favored medical education and
from the neighborhood units upward. They also work side by side with
health care delivery SO as to insure quantity, perhaps at the expense of
men in the farms and factories of China. Only in the heaviest work
quality. The main changes that have occurred are these:
at the most demanding jobs in the iron and steel plants at Anshan
-Shortened length of medical school from 6 years to 3 years; par-
were women absent. But even there, in the hot, choking, dark and
ing the curriculum from 36 courses to 15.
noisy caverns of industry, women could be found operating heavy
-The graduates are not given a diploma and must work in the com-
equipment.
munity for 5 years before being considered for speciality training.
In the showcase communes and factories to which we were taken,
-Students must spend time in the communities obtaining experi-
we found no household where the wife and mother did not work at
ence and training "Barefoot Doctors."
some job outside the home. We therefore assume not only that this is a
-Students are selected for the study of medicine, after high school
widespread practice, but also that the employment of both parents is
and 2 years of work, by their fellow commune or factor workers.
a practice favored and encouraged by the State.
Selection is based on their political motivation, intellect and
As a consequence of this, children are in State care facilities for the
proven willingness to work.
most important years of their lives. From a physical care standpoint,
-As at all levels of Chinese society, periodic physical work in the
these facilities for infants and pre-schoolers seem highly developed.
commune is demanded of medical students.
The children seemed well-clothed, happy and sturdy. And the care-
-Former specialists are the backbone of the medical faculties.
taker-to-child ratio seemed generally to be a very favorable four or
-Students must be single and may not marry.
five children to one adult. This is possible, of course, where the labor
-Doctors start out at a salary of 32 yuan per month ($14.40), and
force is very large.
may advance through 8 levels of pay based on political motivation
Many of these facilities are designed to care for children on a weekly
quality and quantity of work.
basis, allowing the child to be with its parents only one day a week,
-The entire post Cultural Revolution university program is in an
since there is a six-day work week throughout the country. In other
experimental stage, since no class has yet graduated from this
cases, children are deposited with the day care center at bed time and
new program.
then picked up the following evening after work. Still other facilities,
22
23
Nurses are trained only in hospitals. They have a 18-month training
The hospitals themselves were clean and orderly, adequately staffed,
period, make $9.50 per month, and must also serve in local communi-
not over crowded and properly located. By our standards their equip-
ties.
ment was very antiquated-this observation includes operating room,
Barefoot Doctors are the backbone of the medical care system since
X-ray, lab, wards, delivery, central supply, and SO on. A surprisingly
80% of the population is rural and agricultural. Their training period
large number of the surgeons were women.
is only about 2 months, though it is updated weekly by additional one
The Chinese diet, which consists of far lower quantities of animal
day training sessions in commune hospitals and periodically by an
fats and sugar than our own, combined with the exercise the Chinese
extended stay in a more advanced center. Barefoot Doctors are also
selected by the commune.
get as they bike, walk and work at manual labor on the average far
more than we do every day, has helped produce a population which
Each factory, commune or farm has medical care readily available,
albeit minimal at times. Each branch of medical training and care is
is lean and strong in appearance.
a mixture of Western and traditional. In many respects this whole
ITINERARY
system resembles the concept of regional medical programs in this
country.
JUNE 26
Acupuncture, the remarkable technique for operation without anes-
thesia, was performed before Christ was born and we saw gold acu-
10:20 a.m.-Arrivals in Shanghai. Luncheon meeting with munici-
puncture needles dating back to 133 B.C. Its usefulness as a form of
pal and provincial officials.
treatment remains uncertain, in the opinion of the American physician
1:20 p.m.-Departure for Peking.
who accompanied our group. However the Chinese use it widely for
4:00 p.m.-Arrival in Peking.
therapeutic relief of headache, gall bladder disease, peptic ulcer, heart
7:00 p.m.-Dinner hosted by the Chinese People's Institute of
disease, deafness and a variety of other ills. We observed three major
Foreign Affairs (CPIFA) and meeting with CPIFA officials.
surgical operations-appendectomy, removal of an ovarian cyst and
thyroid tumor-and three tooth extractions, performed using
JUNE 27
acupuncture anesthesia.
Acupuncture anesthesia, which was begun in the late 50's appears to
Morning.-Palace Museum and Exhibition of Excavated Historical
be a highly significant medical advance. Having seen it used for thy-
Relics.
roid, ovarian, appendicidal and dental surgery, and having seen the
Afternoon.-(1) Meeting with Mr. Chiao Kuan-hua, Vice Minister
patients talking, drinking tea, eating orange slices during the proce-
of Foreign Affairs; (2) The Central Institute for Nationalities; (3)
dure, and having observed the patients hop off the operating table at
The Summer Palace; and (4) The Peking Zoo.
the conclusion of surgery impressed even the most doubting cynic. The
Evening.-Sports Performances.
technique of needle insertion is said to vary with each type case, but
the needles may be stimulated electrically (6-9 volt DC at 90-120
JUNE 28
cycles/min) or by up and down rotatory manual stimulation. Even
chest surgery is possible without endotracheal tube by first introducing
Morning-(1) No. 3 Hospital of Peking Medical College (acupunc-
an artificial pneumotherax prior to surgery on the lung to be operated.
ture anaesthesia) ; (2) The Red Star People's Commune.
The obvious advantages to acupuncture anesthesia are:
Afternoon.-(1) The Peking Arts and Crafts Factory; (2) The
-Safety-no depressant anesthetics or liver toxins are needed.
Peking Dongfanghong Automobile Plant; (3) Meeting with repre-
-Anesthesia can be given inside the operating room, thereby short-
sentatives of the China Council for the Promotion of International
ening the operation;
Trade.
-No recovery room time is needed-the patient has reacted at the
Evening.-Meeting and Dinner with Premier Chou En-lai.
end of surgery;
-Less training and skill are needed by the anesthetist;
JUNE 29
-The patient is able to cooperate during surgery-i.e. talk during
thyroid surgery (vocal cord), move during brain surgery and SO
Morning and Afternoon.-The Great Wall and Ting Ling Museum.
forth.
8:00 p.m.-Departure for Shenyang.
-There appeared to be less bleeding.
9:30 p.m.-Arrival in Shenyang Meeting with municipal and pro-
A commune doctor demonstrated the acupuncture technique on the
vincial officials.
JUNE 30
hand of our delegation physician and the hand was anesthesized within
15-20 seconds. We understand that this form of anesthesia is now being
Morning.-Departure for Anshan-high tension live-line demon-
used in at least three U.S. hospitals. Precise needle placement doesn't
seem to matter for the anesthesia effect to be complete. The jamming
stration (ontheway).
of pain circuit transmission by needle-electric stimuli seems to be
Afternoon.-Anshan Iron & Steel Works.
the most accepted theory, and we believe it will be a widely used tech-
Evening.-Acrobatics Performances.
nique in the United States before very long.
25
24
uniformly friendly, helpful and competent young men and women
JULY 1
who were assigned to us as interpreters. The warm feeling we devel-
oped for the people of China is in no small measure attributable
Morning.-Return to Shenyang-Rice-growing People's Commune
to the unfailing good humor and uncommon courtesy of these
(on the way).
individuals.
Afternoon.-(1) Transformer Factory; (2) Middle school and
Kindergarten; (3) School for Deaf and Mute and Kindergarten.
NEW CHINA NEWS AGENCY DISPATCHES
Evening.-Dinner with local officials.
The following official dispatches were released by the New China
JULY 2
News Agency in connection with our visit:
8:30 a.m.-Return to Shanghai prevented due to adverse weather;
PEKING BANQUET WELCOMES HOUSE LEADERS BOGGS AND FORD
aircraft diverted to Peking.
JULY 3
(S261946 Peking NCNA International Service in English 1935
GMT 26 Jun 72 B.)
Morning.-Departure for Canton.
PEKING, June 26, 1972 (Hsinhua).-The Chinese People's Institute
Afternoon.-Tour of Canton. Meetings with municipal and provin-
of Foreign Affairs gave a banquet here this evening for Hale Boggs,
cial officials.
Democratic leader of the U.S. House of Representatives, and Mrs.
Evening.-Dinner with local leaders.
Boggs, and Gerald Ford, Republican leader of the House, and Mrs.
Ford.
JULY 4
Among the guests at the banquet were members of their party:
Morning.-Sun Yat-sen University and Medical College.
William A. Brown, Freeman Cary, Bryce Marlow, Robert Hartmann,
Gary Hymel, Harry Lee, Frank Meyer, Paul A. Miltich, Day O.
Afternoon.-Workers Housing Complex, Middle School, Children's
Palace.
Mount, Paul Sigmund and Eugene A. Theroux.
Present were Kuo Mo-jo, Vice-Chairman of the Standing Com-
Evening.-Cultural Performance by Canton Troupe; Fourth of
mittee of the National People's Congress; Chang Hsi-jo, President
July Dinner for CPIFA, hosted by Mr. Boggs and Mr. Ford.
of the Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs; Chiao Kuan-hua,
JULY 5
Vice-Foreign Minister; and Chou Pei-yuan, Vice-President of the In-
stitute. Before the banquet, they met Hale Boggs and Gerald Ford
Morning.-Departure for Hong Kong by rail.
and their wives and the other American guests and had a friendly
talk with them.
HOSTS AND HOST ORGANIZATION
Present at the banquet and meeting were Chang Wen-chin, Assist-
ant Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ju Yu-chih and Lin Chiao-chih,
Our formal host in China was the Chinese People's Institute of
members of the Standing Committee of the National People's Con-
Foreign Affairs (CPIFA). This is a quasi-governmental organization
gress, and leading members of organizations concerned, including
used to extend hospitality to persons, such as our party, from nations
Chou Chiu-yeh, Yu Li-chun, Wang Ti-chen, Wang Tung, Wang
with which China does not have diplomatic relations. Premier Chou
Hsiao-i, Hu Hung-fan, Chien Ta-tung and Ma Yu-chen.
En-lai is Honorary Chairman of the CPIFA.
The American guests arrived here by air this afternoon on a visit
The gracious hospitality provided by the CPIFA included a remark-
to China at the invitation of the Chinese People's Institute of Foreign
ably successful effort to schedule in a very short time a wide variety
Affairs. They were met at the airport by Chou Pei-yuan and others.
of experiences in diverse places according to our interests and desires.
Chou Chiu-yeh, Secretary General of the host organization, had made
As anyone who has had a part in arranging visits of this sort is aware,
a special trip to Shanghai to meet the American guests and accompa-
a high degree of skill and patience is essential, and our hosts never
nied them to Peking.
failed us. Our safety was assured with the great care of our drivers
During their halt in Shanghai, the American guests were greeted
and, particularly, with the skill of our aircraft crew. Finally, of
at the airport by Geng Kuo-chu, council member of the host organi-
course, no account of our journey would be complete without testi-
zation.
monial to the extraordinary cuisine whose variety and excellence
PREMIER CHOU EN-LAI HOSTS U.S. LEADERS
greeted us three times daily.
We would like to express our warmest thanks to the CPIFA, par-
(Peking NCNA International Service in English 2047 GMT 28 Jun
ticularly to Chang Hsi-jo, President of the CPIFA, to Chou Pei-yuan,
72 B.)
Vice President of the CPIFA, to Chou Ch'iu-yeh, Secretary General
PEKING, June 28, 1972 (Hsinhua).-Chou En-lai, premier of the
of the CPIFA, who accompanied us on our journey, to the CPIFA
State Council, Chang Hsi-jo, president of the Chinese People's Insti-
provincial and municipal representatives in the areas we visited, to
tute of Foreign Affairs, and Chiao Kuan-hua, vice-foreign minister,
our drivers, guides and guest-house staffs, and most especially to the
this evening hosted a dinner for Hale Boggs, Democratic leader of the
27
26
COMPOSITION OF THE DELEGATION
U.S. House of Representatives, and Mrs. Boggs, and Gerald Ford, Re-
publican House leader, and Mrs. Ford, and their party.
Majority Leader Hale Boggs and Mrs. Boggs.
The members of their party attending the dinner were: William A.
Minority Leader Gerald R. Ford and Mrs. Ford.
Brown, Freeman Cary, Bryce Harlow, Robert Hartmann, Gary Hy-
Mr. William A. Brown, Deputy Director, Office of Asian Commu-
mel, Harry Lee, Frank Meyer, Paul A. Miltich, Day O. Mount, Paul
nist Affairs, Department of State.
Sigmund, and Eugene A. Theroux.
Dr. Freeman H. Cary, Assistant Attending Physician to the
Present at the banquet were Chou Pei-yuan, vice-president of the
Congress.
Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs, and leading members
Mr. Bryce N. Harlow, Business Executive, former Counselor to
and staff members of organizations concerned Chou Chiu-yeh, Wang
the President, Aide to Mr. Ford.
Ti-cheng, Wang Tung, Hu Hung-fan, Ma Yu-chen, Chi Chao-chu, Tzu
Mr. Robert T. Hartmann, Legislative Assistant to Mr. Ford.
Chung-yun and Chao Ching-tien.
Mr. Gary G. Hymel, Administrative Assistant to Mr. Boggs.
After the banquet, Premier Chou En-lai and others met the U.S.
Honorable Harry Lee, United States Magistrate, Eastern District
House leaders and their party.
of Louisiana, Aide to Mr. Boggs.
Mr. Frank Meyer, Administrative Assistant to Mr. Ford.
U.S. HOUSE LEADERS LEAVE PEKING FOR TOUR OF OTHER AREAS
Mr. Paul A. Miltich, Press Secretary to Mr. Ford.
Mr. Day O. Mount, Administrative Officer, Department of State.
(Peking NCNA International Service in English 1651 GMT 29 Jun
Dr. Paul Sigmund, Professor of Political Science, Princeton Uni-
72 B.)
versity, Aide to Mr. Boggs.
PEKING, June 29, 1972 (Hsinhua) -Hale Boggs, Democratic leader
Eugene A. Theroux, Esq., Special Counsel to the Joint Economic
of the U.S. House of Representatives, and Mrs. Boggs, and Gerald
Committee, Aide to Mr. Boggs.
Ford, Republican House leader, and Mrs. Ford, and their party left
here by air this evening on a visit to other parts of China in the com-
pany of Chou Chiu-yeh, secretary-general of the Chinese People's In-
stitute of Foreign Affairs.
Seeing them off at the airport were Chou Pei-yuan, vice-president
of the Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs, and his wife; Hu
Yu-chih, member of the standing committee of the national people's
congress; and leading members of organizations concerned Wang Tung
and Wang Hsiao-i.
BOGGS, FORD END PRC VISIT, LEAVE CANTON FOR HOME
(Peking NCNA International Service in English 1508 GMT 5 Jul
72 B.)
CANTON, July 5, 1972 (Hsinhua) -Hale Boggs, Democratic leader
of the U.S. House of Representatives, and Mrs. Boggs, and Gerald
Ford, Republican House Leader, and Mrs. Ford, and their party left
here for home by train today at the end of a visit to China.
They were seen off at the railway station by Chou Chiu-yeh, secre-
tary general, and Shao Yun-sheng, council member, of the Chinese
People's Institute of Foreign Affairs; Kao Chao-lan, professor of
Chungshan University; and leading members of Chinese organiza-
tions concerned, including Hu Hung-fan, Tsu Kuo-chen and Cheng
Chien.
The U.S. guests arrived in Canton on the morning of July 3 after
touring Peking, Shenyang and Anshan. They were honoured at a
banquet given that evening by Wang Shou-tao, vice-chairman of the
Kwangtung Provincial Revolutionary Committee.
While in Canton, the American guests visited a factory, a school
and a children's palace and went sightseeing in the city. Hale Boggs
and Mrs. Boggs, and Gerald Ford and Mrs. Ford gave a reciprocal
banquet yesterday evening.
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
September 5, 1972
Statement by Rep. Gerald R. Ford
The outrage committed by the Arab terrorists at Munich is a crime not only
against Israel but against the entire world community. This was a hideous act
of the most inhuman sort.
I agree with the action of the International Olympic Committee in suspending
the Olympic Games for 24 hours. I do not see how the Olympic Games can resume
until this situation is resolved.
###
House Galleries only
Offere Capy
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
September 5, 1972
Statement by Rep. Gerald R. Ford
The outrage committed by the Arab terrorists at Munich is a crime not only
against Israel but against the entire world community. This was a hideous act
of the most inhuman sort.
I agree with the action of the International Olympic Committee in suspending
the Olympic Games for 24 hours. I do not see how the Olympic Games can resume
until this situation is resolved.
###
House Halleries only
Office Capy
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
September 6, 1972
Remarks by Rep. Gerald R. Ford regarding S. Res. 358 for delivery on the Floor of
the House.
Mr. Speaker, the only way despicable acts of murder and terrorism like
that which occurred in Munich will be stopped is if doors all over the world are
shut to such assassins.
While deeply mourning the deaths of the Israeli Olympic team members so
senselessly slain by Arab terrorists in Germany, I agree completely with the action
called for by Senate Resolution 358--that the civilized world ostracize any peoples
or nation giving sanctuary or refuge to international outlaws of the Black
September stripe.
In committing their outrages and delivering their ultimatums, Arab
terrorists ultimately seek escape. They attempt to find their way to a place of
refuge.
In the case of the Munich Affair, the announced destination was Cairo. It
is my information that West German officials contacted the Egyptian Government but
received no satisfaction from them during the time that negotiations with the
terrorists still were in progress. This, to me, is shocking.
There should be no hiding place for assassins like the Arab terrorists.
There should be no place to which they can flee after executing their hideous
plots. I know of no other way in which such assassins can be stopped.
Mr. Speaker, I urge strong support for Senate Resolution 358.
###
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
September 6, 1972
Remarks by Rep. Gerald R. Ford regarding S. Res. 358 for delivery on the Floor of
the House.
Mr. Speaker, the only way despicable acts of murder and terrorism like
that which occurred in Munich will be stopped is if doors all over the world are
shut to such assassins.
While deeply mourning the deaths of the Israeli Olympic team members so
senselessly slain by Arab terrorists in Germany, I agree completely with the action
called for by Senate Resolution 358--that the civilized world ostracize any peoples
or nation giving sanctuary or refuge to international outlaws of the Black
September stripe.
In committing their outrages and delivering their ultimatums, Arab
terrorists ultimately seek escape. They attempt to find their way to a place of
refuge.
In the case of the Munich Affair, the announced destination was Cairo. It
is my information that West German officials contacted the Egyptian Government but
received no satisfaction from them during the time that negotiations with the
terrorists still were in progress. This, to me, is shocking.
There should be no hiding place for assassins like the Arab terrorists.
There should be no place to which they can flee after executing their hideous
plots. I know of no other way in which such assassins can be stopped.
Mr. Speaker, I urge strong support for Senate Resolution 358.
# # #
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
September 7, 1972
Statement by Rep. Gerald R. Ford
I am shocked and horrified that Sen. George McGovern would equate the
bombing of North Vietnam by U.S. pilots with the slaying of the 11 Israeli Olympic
Squad members in Munich by Arab terrorists. And yet that clearly is the thrust
of remarks made Wednesday by McGovern before the Southern California Board of
Rabbis in Los Angeles.
McGovern compared U.S. fliers in Vietnam with the Arab terrorists, and when
one of the rabbis challenged this, McGovern made the following comment as filmed
by ABC-TV News:
"What I was trying to do, rabbis, was to express my own
horror and indignation over the kind of killing that is taking
place in various parts of the world, but especially in Vietnam.
My conscience can't live with the kind of pictures we had in the
press here a few weeks ago of those little children running from
a bombed-out school. Now, I know that the pilot who dropped that
napalm is on a different moral level than the terrorists who killed
those young men in Munich yesterday. I personally can't live with
the kind of situation we have right now in Southeast Asia where
tens of thousands of innocent people are being killed, however
inadvertently, by an American military involvement that I think
is against the best traditions of this country and which I think
is not in the interests of the people of Vietnam."
Note that McGovern makes no mention of North Vietnamese atrocities like
the slaughter of thousands of civilians at Hue or the acts of terrorism by the
Vietcong in Saigon from time to time. He also ignores the massive North Vietnamese
invasion of South Vietnam last spring, which is still continuing. He seems only
to be concerned about the U.S. bombing of North Vietnam.
###
Full Distribution
0 Office Copy
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
September 7, 1972
Statement by Rep. Gerald R. Ford
I am shocked and horrified that Sen. George McGovern would equate the
bombing of North Vietnam by U.S. pilots with the slaying of the 11 Israeli Olympic
Squad members in Munich by Arab terrorists. And yet that clearly is the thrust
of remarks made Wednesday by McGovern before the Southern California Board of
Rabbis in Los Angeles.
McGovern compared U.S. fliers in Vietnam with the Arab terrorists, and when
one of the rabbis challenged this, McGovern made the following comment as filmed
by ABC-TV News:
"What I was trying to do, rabbis, was to express my own
horror and indignation over the kind of killing that is taking
place in various parts of the world, but especially in Vietnam.
My conscience can't live with the kind of pictures we had in the
press here a few weeks ago of those little children running from
a bombed-out school. Now, I know that the pilot who dropped that
napalm is on a different moral level than the terrorists who killed
those young men in Munich yesterday. I personally can't live with
the kind of situation we have right now in Southeast Asia where
tens of thousands of innocent people are being killed, however
inadvertently, by an American military involvement that I think
is against the best traditions of this country and which I think
is not in the interests of the people of Vietnam."
Note that McGovern makes no mention of North Vietnamese atrocities like
the slaughter of thousands of civilians at Hue or the acts of terrorism by the
Vietcong in Saigon from time to time. He also ignores the massive North Vietnamese
invasion of South Vietnam last spring, which is still continuing. He seems only
to be concerned about the U.S. bombing of North Vietnam.
###
House Galliries and GR office only
O
office
Copy
CONGRESSMAN
NEWS
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
Tuesday, March 6, 1973
House Republican Leader Gerald R. Ford today joined Secretary
of State William Rogers in urging that the Palestinian terrorists
who murdered two American diplomats be executed.
Ford said: "Just as I believe capital punishment is the
appropriate penalty for first-degree murder in the United States,
so, too, I believe the Palestinian terrorists who killed Ambassador
Cleo Noel and his deputy should pay the extreme penalty. I am
pleased to learn that the Foreign Minister of the Sudan has denied
reports of a deal between the terrorists and the Sudanese government
guaranteeing them immunity from capital charges.
"If the terrorists are found guilty on murder charges and
are executed, it is entirely possible that this may serve to
discourage a repetition of such incidents in the future. A heinous
crime that goes without proper punishment encourages the commission
of more such crimes."
# # #
0 OFFICE COPY
NEWS
CONGRESSMAN
GERALD R. FORD
HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER
RELEASE
--FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
Saturday, September 29, 1973
I am deeply disappointed that the Austrian Government would yield
to the blackmail practiced by Arab terrorists and end its country's role as
a processing center for Jews emigrating from the Soviet Union to Israel. I
hope that the Austrian Cabinet will reconsider and will rescind this
unfortunate decision.
###
FORD & LIBRARY GENATO