Regarding the Attitude Toward Yan Xishan

Telegram to Ye Jianying and Liu Ding

(October 23, 1936)

Jian and Liu:

Through Li Yi or by other means, convey the following points to Yan Xishan:

1. We fully sympathize with the resolve and actions of the Jin-Sui authorities and their troops in resisting Japan and defending the territory. Their resolve and actions will win the support of the people throughout the country, and the Soviet and the Red Army will do their utmost to assist them with full strength.

2. We earnestly hope to reach an understanding and even conclude an anti-Japanese agreement with the Jin-Sui authorities.

3. So long as the Jin-Sui authorities truly resist Japan and do not compromise with Japan, the Red Army will never rashly advance into Jin-Sui without the prior consent of the Jin-Sui authorities.

4. After mutual understanding is reached, the Red Army will, in accordance with the agreement, enter the designated areas and defense lines, undertake certain combat tasks, and submit to unified command. The Red Army will not interfere in the administrative affairs of the Jin-Sui authorities.

5. We can serve as an intermediary for assistance from a certain side.

Dong

October 23, 16:00