MEMORANDUM

THE WHITE HOUSE

WASHINGTON

July 16, 1971

MEMORANDUM FOR DR. KISSINGER

FROM: The Situation Room

SUBJECT: Morning News Summary

The Washington Post

Stanley Karnow writes that your trip had its origins in a Communist Chinese diplomatic initiative begun in November, 1968 when the Chinese announced their intention to renew Sino-American diplomatic talks in Warsaw. He also notes that "the most imaginative observer could not have guessed that the fact that (you) were accompanied by John Holdridge, the China expert on (your) staff, portended a trip to the Chinese capital. (page 1)

Joseph Alsop takes the *N. Y. Times* to task for its treatment of the Pentagon papers caper and its efforts to downplay charges by Daniel Ellsberg that the *Times* and other newspapers failed to recognize the many "cues" that President Johnson had given regarding the danger in South Vietnam, noting that Ellsberg's interview on the Dick Cavett show was given marginal coverage by the *Times* and delved almost exclusively with Ellsberg's fairly silly and irrelevant attack on you. (page 23)

Jack Anderson claims that there are dozens of reports similar to the Pentagon papers which were prepared by the Defense Department's Weapons System Evaluation Group for the benefit of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, covering similarly controversial and potentially embarrassing episodes. (page B15)

The New York Times

Seymour Topping states that there was nothing in the President's stunning announcement to suggest that you had made any significant

-2-

progress in the solution of the monumental problems dividing Communist China and the U. S., noting that the agreement to meet sometime before May, 1972, suggests that both sides anticipate intensive exchanges to lay the groundwork for the summit meeting. (page 1)

Felix Belair covers Representative Ogden Reid's charges that classified government figures disclosed that 26,843 non-military Viet Cong insurgents and sympathizers were "neutralized" in the U. S. financed Phoenix program. Rep. Reid called the killings "outrageous and morally indefensible" and said some violated the Geneva Convention. (page 4)

## The Baltimore Sun

Philip Potter observes that an interesting aspect of your trip was that it was facilitated by the Pakistani government, which may explain why the Nixon administration has carefully avoided public denunciation of President Yahya Khan's activities to suppress the separatists in East Pakistan. (page 1)

MEMORANDUM

THE WHITE HOUSE

WASHINGTON

July 16, 1971

MEMORANDUM FOR DR. KISSINGER

FROM: The Situation Room

SUBJECT: Reaction to President Nixon's Announcement

Both foreign and domestic reaction have been exceedingly favorable. Taiwan was the only country to voice a negative reaction; a formal protest was sent to State by Taiwan. The Soviet Union made no mention of the announcement until 5:45 a.m. EDT. this morning; they carried a straight-forward account of the announcement with no commentary. Many major capitols have not yet been heard from. The following highlights represent available foreign reaction:

- U Thant. "This may have opened a new chapter in the history of international relations. It also speaks well for the future of the UN."

- South Vietnam. The news was well received by Vietnamese politicians. No official comment has been made yet.

- Thai Foreign Minister Khoman. "It is important news, I hope it will have a good effect."

- South Korea. No official reaction.

- New Zealand Prime Minister Holyoake. "The news was heartening."

- Australian Prime Minister. "An act of great imaginativeness and political courage and of possible immense importance and benefit to the cause of peace."

- Japan. Characterized by government officials as a very good thing.

- Foreign Reaction has been, for the most part, very favorable with some nations adopting a wait-and-see attitude.

-2-

## Highlights of Domestic Reaction:

- Congressional leaders of both parties expressed the hope that President Nixon's trip to China will hasten the end of the war in Vietnam.

- Representative Ford. "Singularly significant."

- Senator Scott. "An extremely important step in producing world peace."

- Senator Javits. "Forecasts the real likelihood of a troop withdrawal from Indochina by the time of the President's trip in 1972."

- Senator Humphrey. "A dramatic turn of events in American foreign Policy. It could be of immense importance in bringing about a speedy end to the war in Vietnam."

- Senator Mansfield. Said he was "flabbergasted and delighted. It could mark the beginning of a new time and a new era."

- Senators Muskie and Kennedy. Have not yet been heard from.

- Senator McGovern. "I applaud the President's imagination and judgment."

- Domestic Reaction. Here again, almost all reaction noted thus far has been very favorable.

## Press Analysis:

- United Press diplomatic reports Stewart Hensley writes that this was a large and dramatic step toward fulfillment of one of President Nixon's major foreign policy objectives. It will have considerable impact throughout the world. The USSR, North Vietnam, and other countries will be trying to determine what this may mean for them.

- Associated Press reporter Eugene Risher reports the announcement as a stunning surprise. The remainder of his article features straight-forward reporting of the announcement.

-3-

-- Reuters reports factually and in some detail. However, they do manage to inject the Kissinger-Rogers controversy into their reporting by rehashing, in several paragraphs, the old charges.

## Press Speculation:

-- The Chinese Communists may be able to use this to their advantage in regard to their problems with the Russians.

-- President Nixon's visit is seen as a stunning blow to Taiwan.

-- This is likely to be viewed with coolness and suspicion by the Soviets.

-- It will be seen by the Soviets as a pre-election device and it will be difficult to convince them that any U.S./Sino understanding would not be at their expense.

# PRESIDENT'S ACCEPTANCE OF INVITATION TO PEKING
## An Assessment of Foreign Media Reaction

July 22, 1971

### Introduction

President Nixon's announcement on July 15 that he had accepted an invitation to go to Peking before next May created a sensation in overseas press, television and radio.

The overwhelming majority of commentators in non-Communist countries enthusiastically greeted the news in a flood of coverage and editorial comment. It was universally seen as a "momentous event" with immense if still incalculable implications for the world.

The story dominated world-wide media treatment for several days following the announcement, and its possible repercussions remain a topic of intense speculation a week later. Much of the speculation centers on the planned trip's likely effects on big-power relationships, but regional and national concerns have come to the forefront in Asian comment.

In general, the announcement was regarded abroad as a diplomatic triumph for Mr. Nixon that dramatically confirmed his pledge to seek to transform an era of "confrontation" into one of "negotiation." On the other hand, several observers held that the development greatly enhanced Peking's prestige and posed some serious risks for the U.S.

### Predominant Themes

With regional variations, these themes emerged in voluminous coverage and comment in non-Communist countries over the past week:

1. The President's "spectacular" announcement marks the dawn of a new era in world affairs in which Communist China is emerging as a third superpower. (In a colorful but typical comment, the mass-circulation London *Daily Mail* foresaw "a whole new ball game" in global politics.)

USIA/IOR

1

7/22/71

2. Whatever the problems posed by a Washington-Peking rap-prochement, the mere <u>fact</u> that contact has been <u>established augurs</u> well for world peace.

3. Prospects for an early settlement of the <u>Vietnam war are greatly improved.</u>

4. <u>PRC representation in the U. N.</u> is now only a <u>question of time</u> (many predict Peking will be admitted this fall), and the U. S. may be about to abandon its long-standing opposition to such a development.

5. <u>Many important questions remain unanswered</u>, such as the status of <u>Taiwan</u> and the attitude of the <u>USSR</u>--both of which have suffered major setbacks.

6. For Mr. Nixon, it is an <u>political masterstroke</u> which a number of commentators in major countries flatly assert will assure his re-election. Some say an improvement in Peking-Washington relations will give a much-needed psychological boost to the American nation.

7. Established critics of U. S. foreign policy (e. g., in Sweden) assert that <u>the U. S. is</u> "finally adopting a realistic attitude" toward mainland China. This is frequently balanced by an impression that Peking apparently is "abandoning" its isolation and "joining the community of nations."

Few Notes of Caution
---

A few right-of-center commentators struck a note of caution at the outset in warning against expecting too much too soon. These observers, almost drowned out in the near-euphoria of the moment, suggested that hopes aroused by the planned visit put pressure on Mr. Nixon "to keep Peking sweet at almost any price" (Britain's *Yorkshire Post*) and that Mr. Nixon "will be in an inferior position in negotiations with China" (L'Aurore, Paris). Some said that the PRC's fundamental aims have not changed.

2

Concerns: Political, Regional, National

Most writers and broadcasters assumed that the Soviet Union was "deeply worried" by the new development, and a number of them-- mainly in Western Europe--expressed concern about the possible effect of this on current East-West negotiations. Some urged Mr. Nixon to seek a visit to Moscow to reassure the USSR.

In Asia, Taipei media replayed the Taiwan Government's "serious protest" over the President's planned visit to Peking, as well as reports that President Chiang Kai-shek had received from Mr. Nixon a personal letter which contained "assurance... that the U. S. will continue to honor its defense treaty commitment to the Republic of China... and to maintain the continuing friendship with her."

Elsewhere in Asia, initial reaction to Mr. Nixon's announcement was mostly favorable, but in the past few days treatment has increasingly reflected regional and national concerns.

Japanese media reported "an air of uneasiness" in Tokyo and mounting domestic criticism of their Government's "cautious approach" to China policy following the President's announcement. Thus, leading independent-liberal *Asahi* contended that Japan had become "isolated" and that Prime Minister Sato had "failed completely to provide any new direction" in relations with Peking.

Indian newspapers discussed possible consequences for India of what they took to be closer ties between Pakistan and the U. S. and a Peking-Washington rapprochement. Editorialists across the political spectrum voiced suspicion of U. S. intentions toward India, and the conclusion was frequently drawn that India must re-examine her foreign policy of nonalignment.

Manila media carried a statement by President Marcos of a need for Asian nations to "review the basis for all agreements" with the U. S. Meanwhile, South Korea's middle-of-the-road *Joongang Ilbo* urged the U. S. "to take effective measures to dispel... anxiety and uneasiness among Asian nations" brought about by "the drastic change in American policy."

3

MEMORANDUM

THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON

July 18, 1971

TO: John Howe for General Haig

FROM: Colonel Kennedy

These items should be added to the "Further Foreign Reaction" memo
you received this morning.

-- **Romania:** Today's London Observer quotes well-informed Romanian sources as saying the President "has offered to have direct talks with the North Vietnamese leaders to speed up a settlement of the Vietnam war and if the offer is accepted he may visit Hanoi after his stay in Peking." These sources also say Ceausescu last month brought Peking word of U.S. proposals for bettering relations. The Chinese told him they were ready to meet U.S. leaders and normalize relations, provided the White House gave assurances it would no longer oppose China's entry into the U.N. The main purpose of the HAK visit was to clarify ambiguities in the assurances of this in the original Nixon proposals.

-- **PRG:** The Viet Cong broke silence for the first time yesterday since the China announcement and brushed off moves toward an Indochina conference. Duang Dinh Thao said the PRG "hopes to find as soon as possible a just political settlement of the South Vietnam problem in the framework of the Paris conference." Thao reaffirmed that China "supports our patriotic struggle against American aggression" and that Chou En-lai "again has just clearly declared . . . support [of] our 7-point peace position." Thao and the DRV spokesman had no official comment on the President's trip to China.

-- **South Vietnam:** Ky predicts the new U.S. - China relationship will bring a peaceful solution to the Indochina war "very soon, maybe quicker than we think, than we expect." He also thinks the current battlefield lull may be partly the result of Chinese pressure. Thieu's comments were more cautious; he says "I just nourish the hope" that the China trip will lead to peace in Vietnam.

-- **Peking:** Reston reports from Peking that People's Daily gave the story only seven lines yesterday and did not mention it at all today. Peking radio merely recited the communique yesterday and dropped the subject today in favor of a long denunciation of "American imperialism" and "Japanese militarism."

FBIS 32

ROMANIAN SOURCES PREDICT NIXON VISIT TO HANOI

LONDON THE OBSERVER IN ENGLISH 18 JUL 71 L

(HEADLINE TO LEAD FRONTAGE ARTICLE: "NIXON: NEXT STOP HANOI?" BY LAJOS LEDERER)

(EXCERPT) PRESIDENT NIXON HAS OFFERED TO HAVE DIRECT TALKS WITH THE NORTH VIETNAM LEADERS TO SPEED UP A SETTLEMENT OF THE VIETNAM WAR AND, IF THE OFFER IS ACCEPTED, HE MAY VISIT HANOI AFTER HIS STAY IN PEKING, ACCORDING TO WELL-INFORMED ROMANIAN SOURCES.

IT WAS THE ROMANIAN PRESIDENT, MR CEAUSESCU, WHO LAST MONTH PASSED ON WHITE HOUSE PROPOSALS FOR BETTER RELATIONS DURING A VISIT TO PEKING AND HANOI.

THE SOURCES IN BUCHAREST SAY THAT FURTHER HIGH-LEVEL TALKS BETWEEN CHINA AND THE UNITED STATES MAY TAKE PLACE BEFORE PRESIDENT NIXON'S JOURNEY TO PEKING. THEY WILL PROBABLY BE HELD IN THE AUTUMN, WHEN THE CHINESE PREMIER, MR CHOU EN-LAI, COMES TO EUROPE, AND BEFORE A FINAL DECISION IS TAKEN AT THE UNITED NATIONS ABOUT CHINA'S ADMISSION.

AS FIRST REPORTED IN THE OBSERVER A FORTNIGHT AGO, THE CHINESE LEADERS INDICATED THROUGH PRESIDENT CEAUSESCU THAT THEY WERE READY TO MEET AMERICAN PROPOSALS FOR A NORMALISATION OF RELATIONS, PROVIDED THE WHITE HOUSE GAVE A DEFINITE ASSURANCE THAT AMERICA WOULD NO LONGER OPPOSE CHINA'S ENTRY INTO THE UN.

THIS ASSURANCE, ACCORDING TO ROMANIAN SOURCES, WAS AMBIGUOUS IN THE ORIGINAL NIXON PROPOSALS AND THE CHINESE LEADERS INSISTED ON CLARIFICATION. TO STRENGTHEN THIS ASSURANCE WAS THE MAIN PURPOSE OF DR HENRY KISSINGER'S SECRET PEKING VISIT, WHICH LED TO THE INVITATION TO PRESIDENT NIXON.

MOSCOW HAS SO FAR MADE NO RESPONSE TO THE AMERICAN-CHINESE INITIATIVE. BUT INFORMED EAST EUROPEAN SOURCES BELIEVE THAT THE RUSSIANS ARE PROFOUNDLY APPREHENSIVE OF ANY DEVELOPMENT WHICH WOULD WEAKEN THEIR INFLUENCE IN HANOI OR STRENGTHEN CHINA INTERNALLY.

18 JUL 1834Z MJC/WA

AP261R
NIXON-TALKS - TOPS

(LONDON)--A LONDON NEWSPAPER, THE OBSERVER, SAYS IN ITS SUNDAY EDITION THAT PRESIDENT NIXON HAS OFFERED TO HOLD DIRECT TALKS WITH NORTH VIETNAM. IT QUOTED WHAT IT CALLED WELL-INFORMED ROMANIAN SOURCES.

THE PAPER CLAIMED NIXON MAY VISIT HANOI AFTER HIS INTENDED TRIP TO PEKING, IF THE PROPOSAL IS ACCEPTED IT ADDED THAT PRESIDENT NICOLAE CEAUSESCU (CHOH-SES'-KYOO) OF ROMANIA PASSED ON TO COMMUNIST CHINA WHITE HOUSE OVERTURES FOR BETTER RELATIONS DURING A VISIT LAST MONTH TO PEKING AND HANOI.

08919PED JULY 17

UPI-53

(VIET TALKS)

SENT TO SAN CLEMENTE

PARIS --THE VIET CONG BROKE SILENCE FOR THE FIRST TIME TODAY SINCE THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF PRESIDENT NIXON'S FORTHCOMING TRIP TO PEKING AND BRUSHED OFF MOVES TOWARD AN INDOCHINA CONFERENCE.

DUONG DINH THAO, SPOKESMAN FOR THE VIET CONG DELEGATION AT THE DEADLOCKED VIETNAM TALKS, SAID THE VIET CONG HELD THE PARIS CONVERSATIONS REMAINED THE BEST FORMULA FOR SEEKING A SOLUTION TO THE VIETNAM QUESTION.

THE VIET CONG AND HANOI DELEGATIONS HAVE IN THE PAST REJECTED A U.S. PROPOSAL TO WIDEN THE SCOPE OF THE PARIS MEETINGS TO INCLUDE LAOS AND CAMBODIA. BUT THAT PROPOSAL APPEARED TO GAIN NEW LIFE WHEN PEKING LET IT BE KNOWN LAST WEEK IT FAVORED THE IDEA OF A MULTI-NATION INDOCHINA MEETING TO SOLVE WAR AND PEACE PROBLEMS FOR THE AREA.

"THE (VIET CONG'S) PROVISIONAL REVOLUTIONARY GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH VIETNAM HOPES TO FIND AS SOON AS POSSIBLE A JUST POLITICAL SETTLEMENT OF THE SOUTH VIETNAM PROBLEM IN THE FRAMEWORK OF THE PARIS CONFERENCE," THAO SAID.

BLAMING THE NIXON ADMINISTRATION FOR THE FAILURE TO REACH A SETTLEMENT AFTER MORE THAN TWO YEARS OF MEETINGS, THAO SAID CHINA "SUPPORTS OUR PATRIOTIC STRUGGLE AGAINST THE AMERICAN AGGRESSION" IN VIETNAM.

HE SAID CHINESE PERMIER CHOU EN-LAI AND HIS GOVERNMENT "AGAIN HAS JUST CLEARLY DECLARED THAT THE GOVERNMENT AND THE PEOPLE OF CHINA FIRMLY SUPPORT OUR SEVEN-POINT PEACE POSITION."

THIS WAS SUBMITTED TO THE CONFERENCE JULY 1 BY VIET CONG "FOREIGN MINISTER" MADE NGUYEN THI BNIH. ITS MAIN POINT IS AN OFFER TO RELEASE U.S. PRISONERS SIMULTANEOUSLY WITH A UNILATERAL U.S. TROOP WITHDRAWAL AND ITS CALLED ON PRESIDENT NIXON TO ANNOUNCE A TERMINAL DATE FOR U.S. TROOP PRESENCE IN SOUTH VIETNAM.

BOTH THAO AND HIS OPPOSITE NUMBER ON THE HANOI DELEGATION, NGUYEN THANH LE, SAID THEY WOULD HAVE NO OFFICIAL COMMENT ON PRESIDENT NIXON'S TRIP TO CHINA.

7-17-- NW&EH117PED

AP016R

AROUND THE FARM TAKE THREE

THE DELTA FARMER WE ARE TALKING ABOUT SAID:

''THE THING THAT WOULD HELP US MOST IS TO HAVE MONEY AVAILABLE AND LET US BUY OUR NEEDS ON A LOCAL MARKET. LET ME GO TO YOU AND ASK WHAT YOU WILL SELL FERTILIZER FOR, AND LET ME PAY YOU NOW INSTEAD OF HAVING TO ASK FOR FERTILIZER REGARDLESS OF WHAT IT'S GOING TO COST ME LATER.''

NEW CREDIT SOURCES ARE NEEDED, HE SAID. THE FARMERS HOME ADMINISTRATION CAN PROVIDE MONEY BUT IS LIMITED BY ITS CONGRESSIONAL APPROPRIATION AND NIXON ADMINISTRATION TIGHT-MONEY POLICIES.

THE FARMER SAID:

''THEY ACT LIKE IT'S ALMOST A CRIME TO MAKE A LOAN TO A FARMER. BUT THEY CAN SEND (M) MILLIONS TO PAKISTAN OR SOME OF THOSE PLACES AND TEACH THEM HOW TO RAISE THE PRODUCTS WE HAVE TO SELL HERE.''

AS A RESULT OF A REDUCED F-H-A LOAN, THIS FARMER HAS HAD TO GIVE CORNERS--USING LESS FERTILIZER AND CHEMICALS, REDUCING CULTIVATION PRACTICES AND ABANDONING PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS. HE SAID:

''YOU KNOW, THEY SAY THAT ONE DOLLAR SPENT FOR FERTILIZER GIVES YOU THREE IN RETURN. BUT IF YOU CAN'T GET THAT DOLLAR THEN YOU LOSE THREE BECAUSE YOU DON'T HAVE ENOUGH TO OPERATE.''

STATE AND LOCAL F-H-A OFFICIALS UNDERSTAND THE SITUATION IN THE DELTA, THE MAN SAID, BUT WHEN REQUESTS FOR BIG LOANS GET IN THE BUREAUCRATIC PAPERMILL OF THE AGRICULTURE DEPARTMENT, THE TIDE TURNS.

(MORE MORE)

CS125AED JULY 18

AP017R

(SAIGON)--SOUTH VIETNAM'S PRESIDENT KY (KEE) PREDICTS THE NEW RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES AND COMMUNIST CHINA WILL BRING A PEACEFUL SOLUTION TO THE INDOCHINA WAR. KY TOLD NEWSMEN: ''WE WILL HAVE A PEACEFUL SOLUTION VERY SOON.''

ASKED HOW SOON AN END WOULD BE REACHED TO THE VIETNAM CONFLICT KY REPLIED ''MAYBE QUICKER THAN WE THINK, THAN WE EXPECT.''

PRESIDENT THIEU (TOO) TAKES A MORE CAUTIOUS VIEWPOINT. HE SAYS: ''I JUST NOURISH THE HOPE'' THAT PRESIDENT NIXON'S VISIT TO CHINA WILL LEAD TO PEACE IN VIETNAM.

THIEU IS SEEKING A SECOND TERM IN THE OCTOBER PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION. KY IS A MAJOR OPPONENT. BOTH MEN SPOKE TO NEWSMEN DURING CAMPAIGN TOURS IN SAIGON.

CS129AED JULY 18

... Western Europe, p. 2

... Asia, p. 8

... Communist Countries, p. 13

## Summary

President Nixon's announcement last night that he has accepted an invitation to visit Communist China produced a sensation in fast media overseas, chiefly radio and television reports. In most areas, newspapers had already gone to press.

Commentators predicted sweeping home-front approval for Mr. Nixon's move:

- The BBC said that "though there may be some carping from anti-Communist hard-liners in America, there's no doubt that the general feeling is one of complete approval for the move."

- Swedish radio saw "a plus for the President on the domestic scene."

- Vienna radio reported "an enormous plus for Nixon."

Observers generally expected vast international changes to result from Washington-Peking rapprochement, including improved chances for peace in Vietnam:

- France-Soir of Paris said Mr. Nixon's announcement "radically alters the international situation. It opens immense perspectives for the future of the world."

- Japan's NHK-TV said a Nixon trip to Peking would have "great significance for settling the Indochina war, and for U.S. relations with the Soviet Union."

- While noting that Communist China "cannot be left out of world politics," commentators widely pointed out that the move makes imminent a decision on Chinese representation in the United Nations.

Peking has not commented or given further treatment to the joint announcement, monitored materials indicate. Moscow reported the story in dispatches from Peking and Washington. Hanoi has not mentioned the announcement.

* * *

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London Radio: "Complete Approval in U.S."

The announcement was the top story on BBC radio this morning. There were
commentaries by a number of correspondents.

A correspondent in San Clemente summarized the President's statement and commented:

"Though there may be some carping from anti-Communist hard-liners in America, there's no doubt that the general feeling is one of complete approval for the move. Indeed, some of Nixon's most uncompromising critics among the White House press corps are already describing the development as a triumph for the President."

Mr. Nixon, the correspondent added, "is obviously anxious that Formosa should not feel deserted by America."

"No Political Gimmick"

BBC Washington correspondent Charles Wheeler asserted that "the airwaves are ringing with superlatives" in the capital. He quoted approving statements by Senators Mansfield and Humphrey, and commented:

"If President Nixon goes to Peking before May, his visit will fit neatly into the primary election season... a coincidence of which he cannot be unaware. However, this is no political gimmick. This is one field in which Mr. Nixon's credentials are impeccable."

Anthony Lawrence, reporting from Hong Kong, saw "a terrible loss of face to Chiang Kai-shek" and said that to many observers the announced visit to mainland China "can only mean a speeding up of the end of the war." He added, "China's help could be useful in terms of pressure on Hanoi."

The early morning BBC radio program "Today" ran an interview with Alistair Cooke, long-time U.S. correspondent of the *Guardian*, who said reaction will be sympathetic among most Americans. He continued, "Vietnam has made people wary of any foreign adventure, especially in Asia, and also wary of the Chinese as possibly a big potential enemy."

Cooke observed that there is "no McCarthy climate" in the U.S. and that "a gesture of friendship" toward the Chinese will be popular.

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"Chinese Will Maintain Anti-U.S. Propaganda..."

A Chinese affairs commentator, Robert MacFarquhar, predicted on the same program that "the Chinese will keep on maintaining their anti-American propaganda, not through the visit...but certainly up to the time" it begins. He added that this would be "the most significant visit abroad by any American President for a long, long time."

Of London morning papers, only the *Times* had the story. It headlined, "Mr. Nixon Accepts Invitation to China."

Paris: "Opens Immense Perspectives"

The news came too late for Paris morning papers. The early edition of an afternoon paper, moderate-left, mass-circulation *France-Soir*, ran this front-page headline:

"NIXON IN CHINA BEFORE MAY 1972. Announces He Has Accepted 'With Pleasure' the Chinese Leaders' Invitation. Offer Was Made to Mr. Kissinger by Chou En-Lai During Secret Meeting in Peking'!"

A by-line writer for the paper made this assessment:

"President Nixon's announcement... radically alters the international situation. It opens immense perspectives for the future of the world. It confirms China's entry into the concert of nations. It may bring peace shortly, with humiliation or surrender for no one."

The commentator also discerned these possible effects:

"For Europe, the dialogue which has just opened at the highest level between Washington and Peking raises the problem of American troops in Europe.... A partial American withdrawal now appears more likely....

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"As for Moscow, which already considered as dangerous a rapprochement between China and the U.S. at the time of the ping-pong contest, its leaders will have to play fast and well....Should they hasten to conclude political and strategic agreements with Washington?....

"For Asia, the dialogue between Nixon and Mao will undoubtedly have the most important consequences within the next year. Peace in Vietnam becomes possible....

"For the U.N., China very likely will have a seat at the next U.N. General Assembly....

"For the U.S., it is a success on the domestic front. Even the Democratic opposition has received the news with pleasure. The end of U.S. aversion toward Communist China...will create a kind of national consensus around the White House..."

The writer judged that "China will become the third superpower," and concluded:

"Mr. Nixon is right in saying he is undertaking this trip 'for peace, not just for our generation, but for future generations on this earth we share together,' But nothing is yet concluded or played."

Radio: "Sensational... Unprecedented"

French radio stations reported the announcement as "the most important news since the end of the cold war," "a sensational surprise" and as "an unprecedented event." Early comment was limited.

A commentator said on commercial Radio Luxembourg, which is widely heard in France, that Dr. Kissinger was responsible for this new turn in Sino-American relations.

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The New York correspondent of commercial Europe One radio, which has studios in Paris and transmits from West Germany, reported that Americans were surprised at the announcement. He said that Mr. Nixon recognizes that the road to peace in Vietnam passes through Peking, "which alone can bring Hanoi to engage in serious negotiations."

Communist China, the correspondent maintained, will be seated at the U.N. this autumn and Taiwan will have to get out "voluntarily or involuntarily."

## Foreign Ministry Spokesman

Agence France Presse reported a French Foreign Ministry spokesman as saying, "We cannot but be gratified at President Nixon's realistic decision to accept the invitation to go to Peking." He noted that France had been informed of the decision by the U.S. Government.

## Rome Radio: "China Cannot Be Left Out"

All TV and radio newscasts in Rome today led with the story.

A radio commentator said that the "President's most sensational announcement caught the public by surprise...."

"Nixon, the loser of 1960, the most conservative of all American Presidents... will be the first President ever to go to China, a country that cannot be left out of world politics..."

He noted that Mr. Nixon's announcement had received "enthusiastic comments... from friends and foes," naming Senators McGovern and Mansfield.

## West German Radio Treatment

West German radio newscasts led with the announcement this morning. A political commentator repeated the story "in view of the sensational importance of this news." He thought it would have an impact on the SALT talks and asserted that Mr. Nixon "has not been responsive to the idea of a summit meeting with the Soviets."

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# "Bonn Hopes Visit Will Lead to Peace"

The West German news agency DPA said in a dispatch from Bonn that the FRG "hopes President Nixon's announced visit to Peking will contribute to an improvement in the world situation and lead to peace in Southeast Asia." It reported that the "official standpoint" was outlined today by a Government spokesman, who noted that Bonn had been informed "about Nixon's intentions before the public announcement."

## Dutch Radio: "Biggest News Since World War II"

The non-commercial AVRO radio network carried a commentator's view that the announcement was "the most significant news since World War II." He added that it was "too early to envisage all of the political consequences."

## Sweden: "Some Form of Two-China Policy"

Swedish radio topped its morning news show with the story, giving nearly half of its 30 minutes to commentaries from correspondents in Washington, New York and Hong Kong.

Their comment included these themes: 1) It could mean "some form of two-China policy" in the U.N.; 2) this announcement and Mr. Nixon's visit to mainland China were likely to receive widespread approval in the U.S., since the development of a softer approach toward Peking has been "gradual and generally popular. It should be a plus for the President on the domestic political scene"; 3) "This latest development is the natural result of recent moves on both sides, including the loosening of U.S. restrictions on trade with China, but it is surprising that ping-pong diplomacy has produced so emphatic a result so quickly"; 4) it should demonstrate to other Asian nations, especially Japan, that the U.S. is serious in its intention to improve relations with Communist China.

## Vienna: "Enormous Plus for Nixon"

A correspondent for Vienna domestic radio commented from New York:

"Sensational, striking and simply unbelievable!.... The whole thing is an enormous plus for Nixon.... The President, who was pushed to the diplomatic defensive by the seven-point offer in Paris, has seized the initiative...and out-maneuvered North Vietnam. He who goes to Peking need not eat humble pie in Hanoi.... On the domestic scene...who can attack him now, while he is preparing for a visit to Peking?

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"Furthermore, this announcement is expected to mean that the People's Republic will move into the glass palace on the New York East River as early as this fall, as a full member and a permanent member of the U.N. Security Council, and that Taiwan will be expelled from the world organization--even though the President says the new relationship he seeks with China is not directed against old friends."

Oslo: Foreign Ministry "Satisfaction"

The Norwegian state-run radio devoted most of its early morning news broadcasts to the statement and its implications. Some programs were extended to provide time for wrapups of world reaction.

Foreign Minister Andreas Cappelen applauded the move in a radio interview. The Norwegian news agency reported that he told an interviewer "that the latest developments are welcome, and pointed out that international affairs have lacked balance because the People's Republic of China has not taken part....The Foreign Minister...emphasized...that the meeting between Kissinger and Chou En-lai could not have taken place if there had not been a desire on the part of both sides for such a meeting, and expressed satisfaction that the so-called ping-pong diplomacy now appears to have produced results."

Finnish Radio: "China Sure of U.S. Sincerity"

The Finnish state radio broadcast a roundup of correspondents' reports of reaction to the announcement.

Its Tokyo correspondent suggested that the acceptance was the culmination of "a great number of messages between Peking and Washington," in which the President "has tried to convince China of his new Asian policy, stated in the summer of 1969 on Guam....

"The messengers have evidently been successful. The Chinese leaders have become sure of the sincerity of President Nixon's policy."

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Calling the statement "a radical turn in Sino-American relations, the correspondent predicted the establishment of diplomatic relations before the visit and a "solution" to China's entry to the U.N. While heretofore mainland China and the U.S. had regarded each other as "huge, aggressive giants," he said, "Nixon's decision to visit Peking seems to throw this concept into the wastebasket."

## "Will Gain Time on Indochina"

The radio's New York correspondent said it would be "difficult to foresee" how new Sino-American relations "will not take place at the expense of old friends." He suggested that by accepting the invitation to visit China, "Nixon will gain valuable time for a total solution to the war in Indochina."

"No doubt he will get more support at home, where the President's popularity is fairly low."

Its Moscow correspondent reported that there was no reaction immediately available, but declared that "it is clear that relations between the two superpowers, the U.S. and China, will be strongly reflected in Soviet policy," which he characterized as showing "great patience" toward China.

## New Delhi: Swaran Singh' Comment

All India Radio today broadcast External Affairs Minister Swaran Singh's statement that President Nixon's intention to visit China is a "significant, positive step." He hoped, the report stated, that "a speedy and peaceful settlement" of the Indochina war would result from the visit. India welcomed the decision, he said, because "it is expected to reduce tensions between the U.S. and China."

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Tokyo: Banners and Bulletins

The announcement was bannered in afternoon Tokyo papers and bulletined
on all TV networks.

TV: "Thaw Now a Torrent"

The foreign editor of public-financed NHK-TV of Tokyo declared that "the thaw in U.S. -Communist Chinese relations now seems like a torrent."
He suggested that "the time factor played an important part in Peking's decision to invite President Nixon...

"Peking judges that the U. S. will eventually pull out of Vietnam, and feels that if it moves now to improve its relations with the U. S., it will have a larger say in Asia's course during the post-Vietnam period. With the international situation now at a turning point, Communist China's strong desire is to establish a foothold at this point in the world strategy of the 1970s."

The commentator added that the Nixon visit would be "a major... diplomatic success for next year's Presidential elections" and that it "also has great significance for settling the Indochina war, and for U.S. relations with the Soviet Union."

The network also reported:

"There is a big possibility that President Nixon may visit Japan while en route to or returning from Peking."

It said such a visit might be tied in with the reversion of Okinawa, expected
next year.

Another NHK commentary declared:

"The visit... will have a profound significance for the situation in the Far East in 1972. Relations between the U.S., Communist China, the Soviet Union and Japan are expected to become more complicated."

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Kimura, Sato Remarks

The network, along with other Tokyo news media, reported Acting Foreign Minister Kimura's statement welcoming the announcement as "very good news."

He said such a development had been anticipated but that he had not realized events would take such a sudden turn. According to the Kyodo news service, he said the Japanese Government had been informed of the announcement in advance by Secretary Rogers from San Clemente.

Kyodo later reported that Prime Minister Sato had remarked to newsmen that he was not upset by the announcement and that "President Nixon has done a fine job."

Kyodo also reported an "urgent executive meeting" in the Foreign Ministry, and quoted Government sources as holding that a fundamental change in Japan's China policy was unnecessary, since there was "a clear distinction" between policies of the U. S. and Japan.

A later Foreign Ministry statement, reported by Kyodo, said Japan would be ready for governmental contacts with China at any time and any place if that country so desired.

"Japan Surprised and Uneasy"

Leading independent-liberal Asahi of Tokyo said the Japanese Government was "surprised and uneasy" over Mr. Nixon's decision, since it might leave Japan behind in the field of improving relations with Peking.

Business-oriented Sankei declared that as a result of Mr. Nixon's announcement, relations between the U. S. and China were expected to improve "in one stroke." It added:

"It can be said that Communist China's entry into the U. N. this fall is definite."

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## Seoul Media Play

The story dominated Seoul media this afternoon. Accounts noted the "tight secrecy" surrounding Mr. Kissinger's visit to Peking and quoted Mr. Nixon as saying there could be no stable and lasting peace "without the participation of the People's Republic of China," and that the U. S. would not sacrifice old allies while exploring new relations.

## Foreign Ministry, Party Statements

A Foreign Ministry statement today called Mr. Nixon's announcement "most momentous." Seoul domestic radio quoted a high Ministry official as saying he hoped the move would contribute to peace, particularly in Asia.

A spokesman for the ruling party warned of "complications arising from the rapid development of rapprochement" and said Korea should work out an independent policy.

## Taipei's "Serious Protest"

In Taipei, a Government spokesman issued a one-sentence statement that the Chinese Government had lodged a strong protest with the U. S.

On Taipei domestic radio, that statement was rendered as follows:

"Regarding President Nixon's forthcoming visit to the area controlled by the bandits, our Government has lodged a serious protest with the U. S. Government."

Dispatches from Taipei reported "a tense atmosphere in Government circles" and said President Chiang Kai-shek had heard the news while resting at a summer resort in central Taiwan.

## Australia: "Complete Surprise"

The President's announcement was carried live on radio by the public Australian Broadcasting Corporation and by commercial stations. Commentators expressed "complete surprise."

Afternoon papers bannered the story.

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## McMahon: "Unreserved Satisfaction"

Agencies reported that Prime Minister McMahon issued an official statement expressing his "unreserved satisfaction" at Mr. Nixon's planned visit. He was quoted as saying:

> "I wish Mr. Nixon good luck in this initiative, which is fully supported by Australia."

Media quoted the press secretary to Australian opposition leader Whitlam as saying in Tokyo that their party was "entirely unaware" of Mr. Kissinger's presence in the Chinese capital at the same time. He added:

> "This was one of the world's best kept secrets."

## Kuala Lumpur: PM's Statement

Kuala Lumpur domestic radio today reported Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak's statement that the relaxation of Sino-U.S. tensions "augurs well for international peace and security." He said that Malaysia would also be happy to see "greater accommodation and understanding" between the two countries.

## Bangkok: Ministry Statement

The American-owned *Bangkok World* had a "stop press" report today quoting Thailand's Deputy Foreign Minister as saying that President Nixon's visit to China "would ease world tensions" and that Thailand would "benefit from any reduction in tensions." A member of Parliament was also quoted as saying that the establishment of Sino-U.S. relations is desirable, but that he doubted U.S. "willingness to compromise with the Chinese."

## Saigon Government Statement

Saigon domestic radio reported President Nixon's announcement. It also broadcast an SVN statement which said that acceptance of the invitation is "a manifestation of goodwill by the U.S. to enlarge its diplomatic relations and normalize its relations with all countries, including those having political and social regimes different from America's, in the hopes of consolidating world peace." The announcement continued:

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"The Republic of Vietnam hopes that the Peking Govern-
ment will take this opportunity to manifest its goodwill
to contribute to world peace by ceasing to invade any
country or to incite and support its satellites, especially
North Vietnam, which is invading the Republic of Vietnam,
Laos and Cambodia.

"Peace in Southeast Asia will be permanent when Com-
munist China sincerely renounces all of its direct or
indirect aggressive schemes, respects the independence
and freedom of its neighbors and pledges positively to
respect peace on this basis."

Peking: Simultaneous Release

Peking radio domestic service and NCNA, in its English-language service, released the announcement made by Mr. Nixon last night at the same time the President spoke. No comment or further treatment departing from the text has been monitored in Communist Chinese media.

Moscow Dispatches From Peking and Washington

Moscow TASS international service in English reported from Peking, datelined
today:

"It has been announced here that the Prime Minister of the People's Republic of China Chou En-lai and the U.S. President's Assistant for National Security Kissinger had talks in Peking on July 9-11. An official report on the talks says that on behalf of the Government of the People's Republic of China Chou En-lai invited President Nixon to visit China at a convenient time before May 1972. President Nixon accepted the invitation with pleasure."

The same service reported from Washington, also with today's date:

"In a television appearance today [sic] the U. S. President
R. Nixon has officially announced that he accepted the invi-
tation from the Chinese Government to visit the People's
Republic of China. Nixon motivated his decision by the de-
sire to establish new relations with the People's Republic of China."

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