Semantics may result from Godelian self-reference
The Chinese Room argument ignores the possibility of machines that can have semantics by virtue of self-reference. Godel's theorem shows how machines can encode their own syntax and thus reflect on their own programs.
Godelian self-reference provides a method to semantics that Searle has not come to grips with. If the Chinese Room implemented a semantics of this type it could be said to have intentionality.
Note: Also, see Map 7.
RJ Nelson, 1989.