856E.00/11–846: Telegram
The Consul General at Batavia (Foote) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 9—12:12 p.m.]
443. Mytel 412, October 1425 re truce. Cease fire and stand fast order issued November 4 by joint high level truce committee being implemented generally but some slight action around Medan and sniping by irregulars in other places.
Mytel 437, November 125 re negotiations: Dutch and Indonesians been in constant touch trying find solution and only problem now blocking agreement is the link with Netherlands kingdom. In meantime joint Dutch-Indonesian committees established for finance, internal administration, economic affairs, public health, and others, all preparing for future if agreement reached.
There is ground for hope that agreement will be reached during coming week but if not reached further chaos may be expected. Sjahrir and other leaders see desperate need for peace and are trying overcome influence of sole extremists who pulling other direction. [Page 852] Good signs are work of above-mentioned committees; Sjahrir’s departure today with entire Cabinet for Djokjakarta to lay matter before Soekarno and Hatta and other leaders; and preparations being made for Commission General to meet Soekarno and other leaders at Cheribon probably next week.
Sjahrir asked me visit him on November 4 to explain situation. At press conference next day Indonesian correspondent asked him to what extent USA intervenes in Indonesian affairs. Sjahrir replied: “USA merely wants to be kept posted on course present talks. It is also wish of USA that Indonesian troubles be settled soon as possible.” Above statement published by Indonesian Ministry of Information and widely circulated.