501.BB Korea/7–1948: Telegram
The Chargé in India (Donovan) to the Secretary of State 1
584. Depcirtel July 10, 1 p. m. [a. m.] and Embtel 563, July 14.2 K. P. S. Menon advised Embassy orally today India could not subscribe to US policy of recognition of New Korean Government as “national government of Korea envisaged by GA resolution.” He said that concurrence of GOI in American policy recognition would constitute complete volte-face in Indian policy and made particular reference his statement before interim committee last February (UN document AAC 18/28 page 13).
Menon added his government might be able support US Government statement along following lines “US Government while recognizing it is responsibility of GA to decide finally whether new government is national government envisaged in GA resolution it as occupying power proposes transfer power to new government to maximum extent possible in spirit of resolution.” Foregoing is verbatim quotation Menon’s statement to Embassy officer. He also said information he had [Page 1247] received from GOI representative UNTCOK that other members UNTCOK might also support such a resolution and that he felt it would be highly desirable if UNTCOK decision on this question could be unanimous.
Menon said he was pessimistic re chances unification of Korea but felt for time being no irrevocable action should be taken which would make it impossible north and south Korea leaders work toward unification.