Letter to Chen Jiageng
(January 20, 1949)
Mr. Jiageng:

The Chinese people’s liberation struggle is drawing ever closer to nationwide victory. It has become necessary to convene a new Political Consultative Conference, establish a democratic united government, and unite the strength of all the people at home and overseas Chinese compatriots to accomplish the cause of China’s independence and liberation. To this end, it is urgently required that leaders of all democratic parties and various sectors engage in joint deliberations. As a highly respected figure among overseas Chinese in Southeast Asia, you enjoy universal admiration and trust. I therefore respectfully request that you make the journey north to attend the meeting. We extend our warmest welcome by telegram and look forward to your reply.

Mao Zedong
January 20, 1949

[1] Chen Jiageng (1874–1961), a native of Xiamen, Fujian Province, was a patriotic leader of the overseas Chinese community. In 1949, he was invited to return to China to participate in the First Plenary Session of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, he served as a member of the Central People’s Government, Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the CPPCC, a member of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, and Chairman of the All-China Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese.