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

694.001/7–3051: Telegram

The Ambassador in the Philippines (Cowen) to the Secretary of State

secret
priority

Manila, July 30, 1951—5 p. m.

425. Romulo has just informed me Quirino unable accept language for article 14 (a) and 14 (a) (1) contained Deptel 332,¹ July 27 which was submitted Saturday as my own proposal and without Dept’s authority. Quirino wishes Article 14 (a) to read “it is recognized that Japan should pay reparations to the allied powers for the damage and suffering caused during the war”. He wishes second sentence of Article 14 (a) to be deleted in its entirety. He wishes to add the fol to your proposal for Article 14 (a) (1): “In case of disagreement between Japan and any one of the allied powers on any matter or subject of negotiations, the same shall be promptly referred to the International Court of Justice for settlement and final decision. The jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice over all questions referred to it for settlement under this article shall include the authority to employ the assistance of any organ or agency of the United Nations for the enforcement of its orders or decisions.”

Romulo was told that there was not slightest hope we cld agree to deletion second sentence Article 14 (a) but I nevertheless agreed to transmit Quirino’s views. Romulo was also told that proposed addition to Article 14 (a) (1) wld undoubtedly be unacceptable since I felt certain reference to International Court of Justice is not practicable solution. Phils feel, however, reference to International Court of Justice wld be useful to satisfy public opinion.

The language suggested in Deptel 332 was urged on Romulo in strongest possible terms. Romulo’s first reaction to it was most favorable. He promised to continue to urge Quirino accept second sentence Article 14 (a) which I told him was sine qua non.

Dept’s advice will be appreciated soonest as to extent Quirino’s modifications may be acceptable.²

Cowen

1. Ante, p. 1228.
2. In telegram 363, to Manila, July 30, marked “For Ambassador from Allison,” the Department replied as follows: “Further discussions Dept over weekend and with Dulles on his return this morning indicate there wld be great difficulty Dept’s accepting revision Art 14 as suggested Deptel 332, July 27, In view of urtel 425, July 30, reporting inability Quirino accept language suggested Deptel 332, consider suggestion withdrawn. You are quite right Quirino’s suggestions as contained urtel 425 unacceptable Dept. Have you any further suggestions?” (694.001/7–3051)