Commentary on the Request for Instructions and Report [1]
(July 17, 1958)
If the situation permits, you may go. When you discuss the matter, you can also consider whether the situation does permit it.
Mao Zedong
July 17
[1]
On July 12, 1958, Xiao Xiangrong, Director of the General Office of the Ministry of National Defense, submitted a report to Minister of National Defense Peng Dehuai, primarily outlining arrangements for Peng Dehuai’s reciprocal visits at the invitation of defense ministers from the German Democratic Republic, Czechoslovakia, Poland, and other countries. Peng Dehuai then forwarded this report to Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping, General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee, for their review and approval. Deng Xiaoping wrote on the report: “Please have the Chairman give instructions, mainly regarding Comrade Peng’s visit to the Eastern European countries.” Mao Zedong’s commentary was written below Deng Xiaoping’s note.