Foreign Relations of the United States, 1951, Asia and the Pacific, Volume VI, Part 1

493.90B234/9–2151: Telegram

The Ambassador in Burma (Key) to the Secretary of State

secret

Rangoon, September 21, 1951—4 p. m.

300. Substance Deptel 271, Sept 19 orally conveyed to FonMin Sept 21.¹ After confirming that he personally was responsible for postponement Burmese appeal to UN (see Embtel 284, Sept 15)² on grounds that such step cld cause deep embarrassment internationally, he expressed appreciation for efforts which Dept making to prevent smuggling of arms and equip.

He also expressed appreciation for Dept’s offer to give consideration to any further steps which GOB suggests might be taken and stated that he wld discuss this with Cabinet officials over weekend and wld get in touch with me on 24th.

Key

1. The text of telegram 271 to Rangoon, September 19, read as follows:

   “You may assure FonMin that Dept will make every effort to prevent smuggling arms and equipment from areas under Amer control and will withdraw passport facilities from any Amers Dept may find to be engaged in such activities.

   “You may inform FonMin that instrs being sent Emb Bangkok investigate fully alleged participation US cits arms smuggling and report to Dept.

   “Dept will give sympathetic consideration to any suggestions GOB may make as to further steps that might be taken.” (492.90B234/9–1951)

2. Not printed.