856E.01/6–3047: Telegram
The Consul General at Batavia (Foote) to the Secretary of State
us urgent
252. Deptel 172, June 26. In personal letter Soekarno acknowledged receipt aide-mémoire stating “We now studying various points raised in your aide-mémoire and I sincerely hope that the relations between Government of US and our Government will grow more cordial every day.” This, of course, says nothing but messenger who brought special personal message said verbally that Soekarno hoping obtain control over his opponents, such as Alimin and others, to enable him comply with Dutch note May 27 and our aide-mémoire. Moderate Indonesians and Dutch deeply gratified with aide-mémoire and hope will avoid military action and help restore law order and rehabilitation industries.
[Page 968]One of first reactions our aide-mémoire was from left-wing groups at Djocja which on June 28 retracted resolution which opposed policy Sjahrir. Government and political circles at Djocja referred to leftwing action against Sjahrir as “irresponsible procedure by unschooled politicians”.
Soekawati of East Indonesia and Sultan Hamid of West Borneo came Batavia especially to thank me for our aide-mémoire. Yesterday many Dutch, British, American, Indonesians and others came my home to offer thanks for averting bloodshed. It remains be seen, however, whether this true.
It appears there only two factors preventing complete agreement: Communist Alimin and Indonesian General Soedirman. Special messenger believes Soekarno will win over his opponents and Sjahrir will resume duties as Prime Minister. When it appeared Communists and Indonesian military had control, Sjahrir was forced resign but Soekarno, who has strong personality, assumed complete control of Republican Government, without name of dictator. I have much faith Soekarno’s ability and desire reach quick agreement and if he has control of left wing, agreement may be expected. If not, no one knows answer.
Regardless opinion British Foreign Office or any of its personnel, Van Mook trying every possible way avoid all military action. Any recommendations British Consul General Batavia to remove Van Mook’s authority are merely stupid efforts. Van Mook is best friend Indonesians have and they admit that fact. Unfortunately Mitcheson, British Consul General, been here only few weeks and cannot know peculiarities this situation. I warn Department that news correspondents and some foreign consuls here may spread many types false rumors of unconfirmed reports. Please be assured that I am in close touch with both Dutch and Indonesians and that facts will be reported promptly. It is certainty your aide-mémoire prevented unfortunate incidents over past weekend.
Sent my personal greetings today to Soekarno verbally by one his Ministers in which he urged to decide and act without delay since sand is running out of glass.
Van Mook today sent new note to Indonesians in which he again pleads for implementation Linggadjati on basis of our aide-mémoire. Expect receive copy this note late tonight. If received, will cable tomorrow.29
- Text of note, dated June 29, was sent to the Department in telegram 253, July 1, 3 p.m., from Batavia (not printed).↩