Lot 55D128: Black Book, Tab 1: Telegram
The Commander in Chief, United Nations Command (Ridgway) to the Joint Chiefs of Staff
C–68266. “This msg in 5 parts. Subj: Armistice conf at Kaesong 3 Aug 51.
“Part 1. Summary: The meeting consisted of two short statements by Joy, reaffirming United Nations Command proposed zone and rejecting 38th parallel, together with a 108 minute speech by Nam Il which generally reviewed enemy arguments for 38th parallel, criticized United Nations Command proposed zone. Nam Il’s speech firm in tone, well-organized, typically illogical. Only new feature introduced was repetition 14 times of statement that United Nations Command proposed demarcation line was north of the 38th parallel, north of line of contact, and deep within Communist present psns. Nam Il offered copy of speech, already translated into English, and Joy accepted. Joy reiterated rejection of 38th. Meetings continue tomorrow.
“Part 2. Progress: None.
“Part 3. Attitude: No significant change.
[Here follows Part 4, an abridged version of the proceedings of the meeting.]
“Part 5. Conclusions: The UNC delegation believes:
- (1)
- Extraordinary repetition by Nam Il of description of United Nations Command proposed demarcation line as north of 38th parallel, north of present line of contact, and deep within Communist present psns is appropriate propaganda for either continuation of Communist adamant stand or acceptance by them of line of contact as demarcation line.
- (2)
- Nam Il indicated, by answers to Joy’s questions that enemy definitely desires to continue negotiations at this time. I concur.”