Foreign Relations of the United States, 1955–1957, Soviet Union, Eastern Mediterranean, Volume XXIV

155. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in the United Kingdom¹

Washington, January 9, 1956—7:35 p.m.

3757. Personal from Secretary for Selwyn Lloyd.

When Harold Macmillan and I discussed Cyprus question in Paris at last NATO meeting Harold asked me to use my good offices with Greek Foreign Minister. I then talked with Theotokis at Palais de Chaillot and reported to Macmillan, who sat next to me at Council table, that Theotokis had made three objections: (1) the double negative; (2) the possibility that Turkey might have veto power; and (3) the vagueness of the timing.

Harold told me that they could change the double negative, that there was no basis for inferring a Turkey veto power and that timing could not be made definite.²

Thereupon immediately following Council meeting I talked with Theotokis, reported the above and urged Greek acceptance of the formula with the double negative eliminated. Theotokis said they would think it. over. It was my impression that Harold knew I would report to Theotokis, as above, and desired me to do so, although of course all of this took place in somewhat hurried and very informal atmosphere and it is possible a misunderstanding may have occurred. In any case I continue to believe HMG should give serious and urgent consideration to alternate phraseology which, in my view, would not alter substance of formula. I suggest that this controversial sentence in formula could be redrafted and if necessary lengthened so that HMG’s offer to meet wishes of Cypriots could be set forth more positively and more clearly; having in mind that it will one day become public. Frankly, I understand that Greek Government is somewhat suspicious of present wording. Finally, in event question again comes before UN, I believe such change would improve HMG’s position.

Ambassador Cannon believes that if Harding and Makarios meet, it would be helpful if they could agree on a joint communiqué summarizing the considerable progress which has already been made, based on the facts that during the past year direct talks have occurred; principle of self-determination has been recognized as applicable at some time to Cyprus; it has been agreed both that self-government should be established as a first step, and that final solution should be worked out between HMG and the elected representatives of the Cypriots taking into account complex of strategic and political considerations.

I realize present situation on Cyprus very difficult, but hope you will not desist in your efforts.³

Dulles

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 747C.00/1–956. Secret; Priority.
2. See Document 151.
3. The Embassy at London transmitted Lloyd’s reply in telegram 2809, January 11, which reads: “Thank you very much for your personal message conveyed to me today by Mr. Barbour. I am carefully considering it and will answer more fully in a day or two. Harding had a not unprofitable discussion with Makarios yesterday.” (Department of State, Central Files, 747C.00/1–1156)