85. Telegram From the Delegation at the SEATO Council Meeting to the Department of State1
Secto 11. First session2 morning, [March] 6, 1956 public opening ceremony.
Pakistan Foreign Minister, Mr. Hamidul Huq Chowdhury, nominated by Thai and elected Chairman, Second Council Meeting, SEATO. There follows brief summary opening addresses.3 Pakistan Prime Minister4 emphasized objectives of treaty purely defensive to live and let live in peace, to resist aggression, uphold right of self-determination and promote economic welfare. Cited necessity for dispelling misgivings that treaty is directed against “certain countries”. However, he said Pakistan would not remain passive spectator of any act aggression imperiling security of area. Stressed right of every country take measures to defend itself, pointed out this right endorsed and upheld by Asian African states at Bandung. Referred to urgent necessity raise living standards peoples undeveloped countries.
Pakistan Foreign Minister recognized treaty had played effective role deterring aggression, maintaining peace and expressed “fervent hope that with time we shall be able to proclaim greater achievements in this direction”. As subversion thrives on economic exploitation Pakistan expects assistance and cooperation. Pakistan a member of SEATO not because of hope for aid which is also given to “neutral” countries but because of its wish to contribute to defense and preservation of ideals and for territorial integrity. Referred to principles of equal rights and self-determination and the promotion of self government as SEATO principles. Expressed hope independent countries and those that may soon achieve independence will join as equal partners in comity of nations.
Australian Foreign Minister Casey referred to re [recent] statements by Governor General and Prime Minister of Pakistan reaffirming support of SEATO, again emphasized defensive nature of SEATO alliance in order “to meet misunderstanding in some friendly countries” and misrepresentation of other countries. Briefly commended work of Military Advisors and expressed belief that progress should be made re economic matters. Casey said Australia “takes seriously [Page 182] the obligations of Article III”. Cited subversive activities major danger in treaty area and suggests greatest attention be given this problem.
Foreign Minister Pineau of France spoke in generalities, emphasizing the need for political and especially economic cooperation.
New Zealand Foreign Minister, Macdonald, expressed belief SEATO had done well during first year and stated New Zealand wished contribute to further development. Cited need for economic aid member countries helping each other with burdens created by defense expenditures. Complimented U.K. and Malaya on success of recent negotiations which he said indicated treaty and Pacific Charter not mere paper pledges. Said New Zealand wants economic studies to be completed and followed by action.
Philippine Foreign Secretary Garcia paid respects to development of Pakistan independence. Called for sincere thorough re-examination SEATO weakness and reorientation of ways and means of coping with growing menace to freedom and prosperity of area due to new totalitarian tactics. Stated Philippines prepared to make proper contribution to fullest extent of Philippine resources. Said SEATO must be prepared meet not only aggression but danger of political and economic penetration and subversion.
Thai Foreign Minister, Prince Wan, paid glowing tribute to close relations Thailand and Pakistan referring to Thai’s three million Muslims. He noted that Cambodia, Viet Nam and Laos are now free and independent and that Malaya and Singapore are assured early prospect of independence. He expressed gratitude for bilateral economic aid especially from the U.S. Said SEATO should develop greater mutual cooperation to assure economic progress and social well-being. Referred to Firm Link as an extremely successful example cooperation and regretted short notice on which it organized. Finally characterized SEATO as defensive instrument of peace and prosperity.
British Foreign Minister, Selwyn Lloyd, paid tribute to development of Pakistan independence. Cited steady “if unspectacular” development of SEATO called for enlarged and strengthened organization. Also emphasized defensive character of SEATO.
Secretary’s statement will be transmitted in full.5
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 396.1–KA/3–756. Repeated to London, Wellington, Canberra, Manila, Singapore, Bangkok, Paris, and CINCPAC at Honolulu.↩
- Of the Second Council Meeting of SEATO, held at Karachi March 6–8.↩
- U.S. Verbatim Minutes of each of the six sessions of this meeting, dated March 6–8 and designated USVerb/1 through USVerb/6, respectively, are in Department of State, Conference Files: Lot 62 D 181, CF 659.↩
- Mohammed Ali.↩
- For text of the Secretary’s remarks, see Department of State Bulletin, March 19, 1956, p. 449.↩