501.BC Indonesia/3–649: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Netherlands (Baruch) to the Secretary of State 1
niact
220. Have carefully explored question raised Deptel 187, March 4, with Lovink in absence Stikker in Paris.
Lovink said Cabinet had invitation to UNCFI as constituted and would welcome their participation at round table conference in same manner as though they were functioning in Batavia. Commission would have access to all meetings and be afforded every opportunity to participate appropriately in discussions.
Importance Department attaches to restoration Republican Government at Jogja was stressed, in conjunction with SC debates and in light of BFO support of Republic demand. Lovink replying said Netherlands Government was categorically and repeatedly on record as unalterably opposed to restoration Republic at Jogja, and he, speaking as Acting Foreign Minister, would have to say that any possibility Netherlands Government agreeing to return to Jogja before Hague conference must be viewed with greatest pessimism.
I pointed out new situation existed as result BFO support of republic re Jogja which he admitted and then, saying he spoke as strictly private person and must not in any circumstance be named or quoted, expressed view that if Netherlands could be assured Republic delegation would leave Batavia for Hague conference of specified date mid-March, he thought bare possibility existed Cabinet might agree to restoration without delay (and might even provide transportation for few days’ visit and consultation Jogja before delegation take off), although might have to disclaim, at same time, responsibility for resultant disorders. Such agreement would have to give absolute assurance Republic attendance Hague conference and would need be worked out between [apparent garble] Republic’s with definite participation UNCFI whose assistance and assurances would be of utmost importance from standpoint Netherlands Cabinet acceptance. Lovink admitted March 12 no longer possible but thought March 15 feasible start conference. We believe March 15 takeoff Republic delegation Batavia was in his mind.
Lovink further stated Netherlands Government felt UNCFI could exercise helpful influence at this time in restraining Republican leaders from making exaggerated and impossible demands as well as by indicating [Page 302] Dutch proposals offer opportunity realization Indonesian aspirations at early date if Republic’s will do their part.
I am convinced as I have indicated before that possibility of successful compromise to enable resumption Indonesian negotiations can be found along above lines, namely, agreement by Republic’s to attend Hague conference in return for Dutch agreement to restoration Jogja; but the two must be linked together. It will be difficult secure Cabinet approval but we note a number of signs that international considerations are slowly making headway over largely national approach hitherto prevailing.
- Repeated in telegram 136, Usgoc 319, March 6. 5 p. m., to Batavia.↩