“You already have two aircraft carrier battle groups in the Philippine Sea,” Hao said, “and another approaching the Celebes Sea. The Philippines are surrounded by American warships. Are you not already taking substantial action?” “The American people want to know when the Chinese will be leaving the Philippines, Mr. Ambassador,” the President emphasized. “I want to know the same thing. Do you have an answer?”
“My government did not inquire of you when you would be leaving Grenada, or Panama, or Saudi Arabia…” “Listen carefully, Mr. Ambassador…” the President said with growing impatience. “I want to know what your government’s intentions are in the Philippines, and I haven’t heard a straight answer from you yet. Your government’s actions have been hostile and furtive, Ambassador, and I don’t like it. For the past twenty years, we’ve had a policy of openness and trust between our countries. We consulted each other on important world matters. Ever since the Tian’anmen Square massacre, your government has cut off most communications with us. That breeds distrust and caution.”
“Mr. President, I assure you, my government does not seek to disrupt any ties with the Americans…”
“Don’t tell me, show me. Nothing but your actions will prove to me what your country’s intentions are. But let me tell
“We will use all our available intelligence resources to discover how many troops you have in the Philippines, and we will begin a program to match, and then
“I want the government of China to make a public announcement clearly outlining your objectives and plans for your actions in the Philippines; but in any case, I want China to reduce the number of troops it has in the Philippines by one-half within thirty days, unless a compelling reason is given why you should remain. I also want Arturo Mikaso to be released from custody or his body turned over to his family and let them as well as his close advisers be released; and if it is found that Mikaso
The rapid-fire flurry of demands put Hao on the defensive. He glanced over at his aide to be sure she was taking notes, then said in a flat voice, “My government will make a full disclosure—”
“I should also advise you that this government views the sharp escalation in offensive strategic forces in China a serious threat to world peace and security; we see it as an unwarranted and belligerent act that is clearly over and above any reasonable response to outside military pressure,” the President interrupted. “I want China to reduce the number of offensive strategic forces it has on alert and return to a less threatening, more defensive posture. Otherwise the United States and our allies will be forced to respond by increasing strategic force postures as well. China will then be responsible for a serious military escalation that will ultimately lead to disaster.
“There should be no doubt in your minds that we consider this Chinese military buildup in the Philippines a threat to American national security interests, and we will respond accordingly. You may take that message to your government.” The President sat back in his seat, paused for a few moments, then said, “Do you have anything further for me, Mr. Ambassador?”
The Chinese ambassador to the United States remained impassive and stone-faced throughout the President’s allocution. “I will take your message to my government immediately,” Hao Sun Yougao replied, “and convey your requests and concerns to Comrade Cheung… personally.”
“Personally?” Secretary of State Dennis Danahall interjected, exchanging a quick glance with the President and his advisers. “You’ve been recalled?”
“I regret to inform you that I have, Mr. Secretary,” Hao said. “The situation obviously requires careful study and discussion, and it was felt that these discussions should take place directly, in Beijing. With your permission, my deputy charge will be available to serve you…”
The Americans looked at each other with some surprise; this move was completely unexpected. “Why is your government pulling you out?” the President asked.
