CHINA AND RUSSIA

Dominion, Volume 18, Issue 150, 19 March 1924, Page 7

CHINA AND RUSSIA

PEKING CABINET DECLINES TO RATIFY AGREEMENT AFFRONTED BY TIME LIMIT BEING FIXED (Rec. March 18. 7.5 p.m.) Peking, March 17. Despite the affirmative decision formerly reached, Cabinet to-day declined to ratify the Chino-Russian recognition agreement, the reason being dissatisfaction with the Note, Karakhan setting March 19 as the time-limit for China’s signature, and declaring that Russia thereafter would be released from her promises. This was deemed an affront to China. It is understood, however, that Cabinet will be prepared to ratify the _ agreement on March 20. Meanwhile, tho Russian Press declares that foreign diplomatic pressure is responsible for China’s failure to ratify.—Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn. [A message from Peking, dated March 13, stated that acting under instructions from President Tsao Kun, tho Cabinet had decided to sign within I a week an agreement with Russia covering the principles of .a full resumption of formal relations. Tho agreement would allow China to redeem the Chinese Eastern Railway and provide joint control until the purchase’ price had been paid, while Russia agreed to evacuate Mongolia and renounce extra-territoriality.]

QUESTIONS TO BE SETTLED YET

Peking, March 17. It is learned authoritatively that Cabinet is not divided on tho question of the recognition of Russia; though recent meetings failed to reach a definite conclusion. Cabinet approached the question with an open mind, but was not prepared to accord unconditional recognition, desiring a satisfactory arrangement regarding certain outstanding questions. These are the cancellation of all Russo-Chinese and Russo-Mongolian Treatries, and the withdrawal of Russian troops from Mongolia; So far Russia has failed to give convincing assurances on these matters. She has agreed to recognise Chinese sovereignty over Mongolia, but failed to give evidence of any intention to evacuate that country. Until tho Soviet has satisfied the Chinese Government on this and other matters, which are considered of vital importance to the Chinese people, the resumption of normal relations between the two countries will probably remain an open question.—Router.