124.90H/57
Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs (Murray) to the Assistant Secretary of State (Shaw)
Mr. Shaw: Reference is made to Mr. Dreyfus’ telegram no. 265, December 26, 11 a.m., in which it is stated that the Afghan Government is agreeable to the establishment of a legation at Kabul but would prefer a minister plenipotentiary to a minister resident.
[Page 45]I discussed this matter this morning with the Turkish Ambassador,1 who represents Afghan interests in the United States. The Ambassador stated that he considers that it would be regrettable if the representative of a great power like the United States were to have a lower rank than that of the other foreign representatives accredited to Kabul. It was pointed out to him that the appointment of a minister plenipotentiary would require legislative action and would take time. The Ambassador then suggested that consideration might be given to the appointment of a chargé d’affaires.
The Ambassador’s suggestion appears to me to be an excellent one. If a chargé d’affaires were appointed, it would be possible to appoint a minister plenipotentiary at a later date if it should appear to be advisable to do so. It is considered that the appointment of a chargé d’affaires would probably not offend the sensibilities of the Afghans, who, as may be noted from the attached telegram,2 appear to be hesitant about accepting a minister resident.
I am, of course, at your disposal to discuss the matter at any time if I may be of assistance.
In view of recent developments in the Near East, it is considered highly desirable that the office at Kabul be opened as soon as possible. It would be appreciated, therefore, if a decision might be reached at the earliest possible moment with respect to the subject matter of this memorandum.