Foreign Relations of the United States, 1949, The United Nations; The Western Hemisphere, Volume II

501.BB/7–1949

Memorandum by the Secretary of State to the President

confidential

Washington, July 19, 1949.

1. The first order of business at the forthcoming General Assembly session, which convenes in New York on September 20, will be the election of its President. An acceptable candidate is much more likely to be elected if the United States determines whom it will support well in advance of the session, and exchanges views with other governments.

2. General Carlos Romulo (Philippines) appears to be an outstanding choice for President. It is understood that he would be greatly interested in this post. United States support for his candidacy would strengthen our friendly relations with the Philippine Republic and our general position in the Far East. On all matters which in his opinion involve the security of the United States, General Romulo has consistently supported our position, but on other matters he has frankly exercised independent judgment.

3. General Romulo is an experienced presiding officer. He has distinguished himself as the chief delegate of his government in the United Nations since the San Francisco Conference. As chairman of the Ad Hoc Political Committee during the last regular session of the Assembly, and as President of the 1948 Conference on Freedom of Information, he has proved himself an effective, well-qualified presiding officer.

4. The post of President of the General Assembly, one of the highest UN honors, has been held by a Western European, by two Latin Americans, and one representative of the British Commonwealth. On the basis of equitable geographic representation, the choice of a representative of the Far East is now appropriate.

5. It is therefore proposed that the United States Representative to the United Nations immediately begin consultations with other Delegations on behalf of General Romulo, ascertaining their views and endorsing him for the presidency if the situation warrants such action.

It is recommended that the above procedure be approved.¹

Dean Acheson

1. Notation by the President: “Approved Harry S Truman”. In telegram 338, July 25, the U.S. Representative at the United Nations (Austin) was informed by the Secretary of State of this decision and authorized to discuss the question of the GA presidency, “indicating U.S. intention support Romulo and expressing hope other Delegations will do likewise.” The British at New York were informed on July 25. (501.BB/7–2549)