501.BC/5–2548: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the United States Representative at the United Nations (Austin)
324. With reference next SC discussion India-Pakistan question now scheduled May 26 Dept understands that of the three inter-Dominion issues other than Kashmir now before SC Pakistan intends press for discussion only of Junagadh question. While Dept appreciates strategic value Junagadh issue to Pakistan in connection latter’s endeavor obtain fair plebiscite in Kashmir Dept believes no useful purpose will be served by further inconclusive debate Junagadh issue in SC. Dept remains of opinion that satisfactory settlement Kashmir issue will facilitate resolution other outstanding issues bilaterally.
Principal alternatives to continued SC discussion appear to be: (a) agreement by SC to defer consideration Junagadh question pending developments in Commission efforts to settle Kashmir question; or (b) reference Junagadh issue by SC to SC Commission in accordance provisions para (D) SC resolution Jan 20.1 Of these Dept prefers latter in belief it would be partially responsive Pakistan request for consideration this matter and also that it might prove useful to SC Commission as counterweight to possible Indian recalcitrance in Kashmir negotiations.
Accordingly, it is suggested you support but not propose resolution referring Junagadh question to SC Commission with same terms of reference as those set forth in para (C) of SC Resolution Jan 20. Dept opposed US sponsorship such proposal believing that in view US membership on Commission US motives might be impugned. Any such resolution should, of course, incorporate understanding that SC Commission would concentrate its efforts initially on Kashmir issue taking up Junagadh question in its discretion.
- For text of resolution (S/654), see SC, 3rd yr., Nos. 1–15, pp. 130–131.↩