357.AC/4–250: Telegram
The United States Representative on the Palestine Conciliation Commission (Palmer) to the Secretary of State
priority
474. Palun 344. Following is paraphrase telegram from Fisher, Jerusalem to PCC 1 April:
“Fisher visited King Abdullah 31 March at King’s request in order inform him of démarche recently undertaken by PCC. King Abdullah had not yet received text of PCC’s memo but after Fisher had explained procedure envisaged in proposal, King expressed his deep [Page 835] satisfaction adding that he would accept PCC’s proposal even if it were rejected by all other Arab states and even if Jordan were to be expelled from Arab League for doing so. King then stated he was looking forward to conversations with Boisanger and Azcarate as soon as possible. King Abdullah appeared extremely pessimistic in connection with proceedings of Arab League and informed Fisher he had instructed his Minister in Cairo, Toukan Bey to return immediately Amman and leave meetings Arab League unattended by any representative Jordan. In explanation this action King pointed out present Jordanian Government was about resign and it would not be correct for Jordan be represented by delegate who was not supported by stable government.
In connection Arab League, he expressed hope his acceptance PCC’s proposal would have effect silencing baseless accusations of secret negotiations between Jordan and Israel. He further stated that from now on nobody would be in position accuse Jordan of negotiating secretly with Israel since Jordan would be acting in accordance open proposals submitted by UN to all parties. King Abdullah bringing interview to close reiterated his appreciation of PCC’s initiative and expressed hope that its prompt acceptance by Jordan would facilitate this country’s admission to UN.
PCC is cautioned to interpret above only as expressing personal views King Abdullah. Reactions Jordanian Government have not yet been received.”