501.BB/11–2548: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in France
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Gadel 584. Circular telegraphic instructions have been prepared and are ready be sent to those capitals in which delegation and Dept agreed discussions on US position Itcols could profitably take place. This is a matter of urgency because of short time remaining before problem reached on GA agenda and because Brit are holding up their instructions to coordinate them with ours.
In light of change in our position re Itcols adopted on Delegation’s recommendation with respect Eritrea Dept requests Delegation’s urgent appraisal parliamentary situation and specific comment on possibility that two-thirds vote may not be received on any concrete proposal, thus leaving issue open until next GA. Dept has repeated to you Rome’s 4414,1 which indicates seriousness with which Italian Govt views possible domestic effects US position to which we must give careful consideration.
Following instructions are provided for Delegation’s guidance:
- 1.
- French have informed us they intend introduce a proposal for Italian trusteeship Tripolitania. You should abstain on vote on this draft resolution.
- 2.
- Delegation’s appraisal is requested of a possible alternative proposal whereby our draft resolution on Libya would terminate in phraseology along following lines: “That the Trusteeship Council report to next regular session of GA whether inhabitants of Tripolitania can best be assisted in preparing themselves for independence if Tripolitania is placed under international trusteeship with Italy as administering authority.” Do you think French might accept such language as compromise in lieu their proposal.
- 3.
- Please incorporate phraseology in any resolution on cession of
Eritrea to Ethiopia which would guarantee rights Italians
presently residing in Eritrea and return to their homes of
former Italian residents of that colony.
You are authorized in your discretion consult with Brit Delegation.
Please repeat your reply to London.
- Not printed.↩