Comments on Bo Yibo’s [1] Report Concerning the Construction of Railways in Fujian
(December 23, 1952)
Zhou [2], Bo:
(1) In accordance with last night’s discussion, it would be advisable to prioritize the construction of the Nanxia Railway [3]; however, the timeline should be advanced. Please consider whether it can be completed within three years to facilitate military transportation. (2) Chen Jiageng [4] will come to Beijing next month. You may consult with him regarding the respective advantages and disadvantages of the Shaoxia Railway [5] and the Nanxia Railway. Explain to him the military and economic justifications for the Nanxia Railway and seek his agreement. Accordingly, there is no need to reply to his letter.
Mao Zedong
December 23
Chuan
[1] Bo Yibo, who at that time served as Deputy Director of the Financial and Economic Commission of the State Council and Minister of Finance.
[2] “Yong” refers to Zhou Enlai.
[3] The Nanxia Railway refers to the railway line connecting Nanchang in Jiangxi Province with Xiamen in Fujian Province.
[4] Chen Jiageng, a native of Xiamen, Fujian, was a prominent leader among patriotic overseas Chinese. At the time, he held the positions of Member of the Central People’s Government and Member of the Committee on Overseas Chinese Affairs.
[5] The Shaoxia Railway refers to the railway line linking Shaoguan in Guangdong Province with Xiamen in Fujian Province.

Archival photo: On December 24, 1952, Mao Zedong posed for a group photograph with participants of the conference of chiefs of staff and directors of political departments from the major military regions of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army.