Office of the Historian

790.5/3–250: Telegram

The Ambassador in India (Henderson) to the Secretary of State

confidential
New Delhi, March 2, 1950—3 p. m.

278. Reference Canberra’s telegram 58 to Dept.1

We believe it most unlikely Nehru would seriously consider joining any regional association which might be expressly or implicitly directed against Communists or which implied any military commitment. In fact he might even seek use his influence particularly with Indonesians prevent creation such association. Among reasons for Nehru’s attitude are:

(1)
Desire avoid involvement with “power blocs”;
(2)
His hope of developing under Indian leadership neutral Asian Third Force;
(3)
His interest in developing cordial working relationship with Chinese Communists and
(4)
His refusal admit danger to South and Southeast Asia stems from aggressiveness of Moscow-dominated Communists and his consequent tendency emphasize suppression of nationalism in certain areas [Page 36] and desperate poverty of under-developed nations as real causes of danger.

Although GOI willing cooperate closely with other Asian powers in cultural and to extent economic matters, it would probably be unwilling accept just now invitation to any conference called under auspices Philippines because it believes that in view Quirino’s announcements last summer such conference would be considered as of anti-Communist character.

Sent Canberra unnumbered, repeated Department 278, Manila unnumbered.

Henderson

  1. Telegram 58 from Canberra, February 28, reads as follows:

    “Grateful for prompt reply in Deptel 34, February 25. I told Spender yesterday substance first two paragraphs. He said Government has not yet answered Baguio invitation which ‘puts Australia in middle’ in relation to Nehru and gives too little time for consideration latter’s position. Added Australia has approached Nehru for purpose ‘exploring’ with him the possibility of some kind of regional association and has not yet had response.” (790.5/2–2850)

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