Central Directive on the Key Points of Negotiations and the Attitude Toward the Kuomintang and the United States

(April 20, 1946)

Zhou:

Telegram of the evening of the 20th received.

(1) Strive with utmost effort for a ceasefire in the Northeast and the resolution of political issues, strive with utmost effort for a democratic constitution (which must not contain any provisions beneficial to dictatorship), and strive with utmost effort for the 100 percent fulfillment of the Political Consultative Conference resolutions. Only by doing so can the two formal issues of the National Assembly and the provincial constitutions be left to be contested later.

(2) Do not prepare to simultaneously reach an impasse with both the Kuomintang and the United States. We resolutely oppose the Kuomintang’s policy of civil war and dictatorship, and strive with utmost effort for peace and democracy. For this purpose, we are not afraid of reaching an impasse with the Kuomintang. However, toward the United States, unless it reverts to the Hurley policy and openly and comprehensively supports the Kuomintang in carrying out civil war and dictatorship, we should not reach an impasse with it. Therefore, on all our Party’s propositions opposing civil war and dictatorship (Northeast, draft constitution, National Assembly, freedoms, organizing the government, troop movements, loans, etc.), we should solemnly express our views to Marshall, but should avoid adopting a vehement attitude or the form of protest. Friendly relations between Zhou and Marshall should still be maintained as much as possible, so as to leave the Kuomintang no loophole to exploit.

(3) Exert utmost effort to unite with the Democratic League and Sun Ke, but be vigilant toward Zhang Junmai; his draft constitution is beneficial to dictatorship.

Central Committee
Mao, 20th, Hai hour