Office of the Historian

320.2 AA/9–1451: Telegram

The Chargé in Lebanon (Bruins) to the Department of State

confidential
Beirut, September 14, 1951—midnight.

248. Eyes only McGhee from Blandford. While awaiting opportunity to contribute success of Paris mtg, believe I shld pass along fol observations:

1.
While it has been Departmental policy publicly to identify PCC with conciliation of past polit issues and UNRWA with coop on constructive econ measures, two efforts are interlinked and there shld be constant private consultation.
2.
Because of special circumstances of my return to area, extensive consultation Arab leaders and early identification with econ approach to problem, reintegration and new homes and jobs three-year program, multi-purpose contribution scheme, proposal larger use of MAC’s and suggestion Jordan engineering mission have expected request personal consultation.
3.
Had completed entirely satis first-round visits Arab Govts re three-year program when Paris mtg announced. Subsequent four visits have each raised spectre of delay and of hazarding concrete commitments before assembly mtg. Paris conferences shld recognize this.
4.
There is as yet no normal UN channel of consultation on Paris negots. Secretary General apparently uninformed. PCC chairman advises he reports to Dept. Departmental communication through US member AdCom inadequate because is incomplete and long delayed.
5.
UNRWA arrangement for re Paris gives us running report, but we lack background of basic documents and thinking. Do not know Departmental thinking on UNRWA role on compensation. Did not have info as to proposal that Arabs agree settle unrepatriated on condition Israel repatriate or of present approach of tying together econ development with old polit issues although we have important experience along these lines.
6.
Above comment intended to be constructive and contribution success mtg as well as our effort. Meanwhile we are starting hopefully second round of visits.

[Blandford]
Bruins