The Ambassador in China (Gauss) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 19—6 p.m.]
864. Substance statement by Government spokesman at press conference May 17 as follows:
As Chinese Government has decided “not to send any students abroad for the time being”, appointment superintendent [of] students abroad also postponed. Guidance students’ thought contained in regulations never intended to affect academic freedom. As reportedly some persons American academic circles still lack clear understanding this point, Chinese Government wishes to state educational system and traditional spirit any country to which Chinese students sent will be respected; this principle will “be borne in mind” when superintendent [of] students [is] appointed in future. Government now considering revision regulations regarding duties superintendent in order “enhance traditional spirit of intellectual and cultural cooperation” between China and friendly nations.