501.BC Indonesia/2–2649: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Consulate General at Batavia 1
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115. Usgoc 309 [for Cochran:] Asst Secty Rusk saw van Kleffens and Helb Fri evening re Dutch proposal presented Wed. Stated he wished convey preliminary reaction US to Neth proposal before proposal made public. Stated our views subject modification in light further info, but at present situation seemed to us as fol:
- a.
- US is ready now, as always, help obtain settlement on whatever basis voluntarily acceptable both parties.
- b.
- US sees impasse looming re new Dutch proposal on point restoring Republican Govt some seat of authority. We have noted with particular interest wording of para 6 Dutch proposals and would be greatly pleased to hear that language this para subject interpretation in Dutch view some sort of reconstitution Republican Govt with definite seat of authority. Van Kleffens stated immediately that reconstitution Republic Jogja definitely rejected by Neth Govt, reading from note transmitted your 601 of Feb. 25. In ensuing conversation van Kleffens strongly expressed view that Neth police forces firmly in control, that law and order being rapidly restored, that restoration Republic would undo constructive work already near completion, etc. It was pointed out to Neth Amb that this was somewhat at variance with our info.
- c.
- Fol discussion feasibility restoration Republic Jogja, point was emphasized to van Kleffens that minimum restoration as proposed SC resolution seemed a sine qua non SC position, and that in absence agreement parties on some other proposal re restoration, US would support majority opinion SC this point.
It was again pointed out to van Kleffens that our consideration this matter and our info on possible acceptability plan by Republican leaders not yet complete.
In view foregoing, which confirms reports and reactions contained Gocus 601 and 602, we believe most hopeful approach lies in indication given Hague’s 198 [193]. Feb 25 repeated to you.
Dept interested in reaction of Federalists to Hague invitation (Gocus 602) particularly as regards status of Republic during course proposed negotiations at Hague. In view of responsibility placed on you by Stikker’s letter, you might wish to tell Dutch that you feel it desirable to talk to Federalists and try to get a consensus on this point.
As matters now stand Dept sees no alternative for UNCFI report than to make it a progress report stating facts of present situation, but it has no desire to bind your hands in any way.
- As 160 to The Hague.↩