Letter to Li Jinxi [l]
(July 23, 1954)
Mr. Shao Xi:

Your letter to me on New Year’s Day was forwarded by my Secretariat to the Institute for Research on Written Language, and the book you enclosed was also sent there. I had not seen either until they were recently returned to me, and I have now read them. I concur with your view on promoting the phonetic alphabet; for specific arrangements, please consult with the Institute for Research on Written Language. How is your health? You should rest more. Should you encounter any difficulties, please let me know. I would be grateful.

With best regards,

Mao Zedong
July 23, 1954
[ l]
Li Jinxi, also known as Shao Xi, was at that time Head of the Department of Chinese Language and Literature and a professor at Beijing Normal University, as well as Chief Director of the Editorial Office of the Great Chinese Dictionary.

A manuscript of Mao Zedong’s letter to Li Jinxi.

Photo archive, image
In 1954, Mao Zedong warmly shook hands with Chen Yuan, President of Beijing Normal University.

By ⑧ Yimao Special Academy, secretly designated
“Great Trust”
(Chinese painting)