689.90D/7–1151: Telegram
The Ambassador in Afghanistan (Merrell)1 to the Secretary of State
26. ReDeptel 8, July 6. In reply to my inquiry yesterday Acting PriMin said answer to Pak counterproposal wld be sent me in few days. Meanwhile he wld tell me it could not be accepted in view of [Page 1985] fact that fourth point was merely “beating around bush,” that Afghan Govt must satisfy “the people,” that Pushtunistan wld be discussed and that it cld not have new Amb to Karachi placed in position of being told it was a domestic matter.
Regarding recent incidents he said that if neutral commission were to be sent to border it cld be proved that incidents were instigated by Paks.
Only suggestions which occur to me at present for improving sit are: (1) Possibility of convincing Afghans of fact stated to me by Saudi Arabian Min here who is much venerated in Afghanistan as a protector of Mecca that all Muslims in world except Afghans are opposed to creation of Pushtunistan. Min informs me he has already endeavored to dissuade King and officials of govt; (2) Dept might consider offering neutral ground at Washington for discussions between reps of both govts encouraged by Dept’s friendly assistance and removed from emotional tensions and national sensitivities of area.
Further unfavorable fact is govt notice that Sept 2 has been named Pushtunistan Day and will probably be used to intensify feelings and worsen sit. Perhaps one favorable aspect of question, however, is that King’s speech at recent Eid celebration made only barest ref to Pushtuns and Acting PriMin’s reply thereto made no mention of issue.
Dept pass Karachi, London, Paris. Sent Dept 26, rptd info Karachi 6, London 4, Paris 2.
- George R. Merrell had been appointed Ambassador to Afghanistan on April 19.↩