Office of the Historian

341. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in the Congo1

Washington, November 20, 1964, 10:35 p.m.

1335. Leopoldville’s 1136 to Brussels.2 Confirming Palmer–Godley telecon, we are gratified at reported progress with Tshombe and Kasavubu on documentation for DR.3 We will not, of course, issue any statement here in advance of Kasavubu statement. We wish, however, underline importance Kasavubu not releasing public statement unless and until we request him to do so through you. Also particularly important you obtain physical custody signed letter to UNSYG and GDRC instructions to Congo rep in New York.

We also understand GDRC has no rep in New York at present. You should urge GDRC arrange soonest for strong representation at UN during this important period.

For Brussels: Foregoing refers telecon in which Godley reported he having satisfactory meeting with Tshombe re GDRC documents in connection DR and hoped get everything we requested. Please inform GOB.

Ball
  1. Source: National Archives, RG 59, Central Files 1964–66, POL 23–9 THE CONGO. Top Secret; Immediate; Exdis. Drafted by Palmer; cleared by Sisco, Percival in EUR, and Brubeck; and approved by Palmer. Also sent to Brussels.↩
  2. Dated November 20. (Ibid.)↩
  3. Telegram 1328 to Leopoldville, November 20, instructed the Embassy that it was essential to secure immediately a Congolese letter requesting Dragon Rouge assistance on a contingency basis. (Ibid.) Telegram 2020 from Leopoldville, November 20, reported that Tshombe agreed to submit his letter requesting such assistance to Washington for concurrence, and that Kasavubu agreed to send a message to the U.N. Secretary-General. (Ibid.)↩