Conversation with Zhang Zhizhong
(September 10, 1949)

Mao Zedong: The People’s Liberation Army will advance into Xinjiang in two columns from Lanzhou and Qinghai. I hope you will send a telegram to the military and political leaders in Xinjiang, advising them to stage an uprising. From the information I have received from Xinjiang, as long as you send the telegram, they will certainly act accordingly.
Zhang Zhizhong: I have long had this intention. However, after receiving a telegram from Tao Zhiyue and Bao Erhan in May inquiring about my situation, communication was cut off. I still do not know how to get in touch with them now.
Mao Zedong: We have already set up a radio station in Yili. Your telegram can first be sent to Yili and then relayed to Dihua. I can inform Deng Liqun, who is in charge in Yili.