Telegram in Reply to Li Zongren[1]

(May 13, 1937)

Peace, democracy, and resistance to Japan are inseparable principles in today’s struggle for national liberation. Although peace has been achieved, it cannot be consolidated without democracy. The war of resistance is imminent, yet it cannot be guaranteed without democracy. Bringing about democratic reform in national politics and opening up the people’s freedoms and rights constitute the central task at present.

[1] This is the main content of Mao Zedong’s telegram in reply to Li Zongren.