Office of the Historian

689.90D/7–1151: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Afghanistan

confidential
priority
Washington, July 14, 1951—5 p. m.

25. Amb might his discretion seek informal interview Acting PriMin (Embtel 26 July 11) to express concern over recent deterioration Afghan–Pak relations and make fol pts:

1) If GOA refuses Pak counter-proposal Dept will transmit msg to GOP but believes Pak will let matter drop. This will mean US no longer in position exercise its good offices (ReDeptel 117 Nov 2)1 as go-between.

FYI Dept believes GOA reasons rejecting Pak counter-proposal not entirely valid as a) GOA already agreed no agenda on talks when accepting Nov 6 approach hence questionable GOA cld tell people “Pushtoonistan” to be discussed and b) GOA understood publicity re talks was to be mutually agreed upon and doubtful Pak wld concur with public statements wholly satis GOA.

2) If GOA turns down Pak counter-proposal without suggesting measures improve relations it wld appear lack willingness for any rapprochement. Even if GOA rejects however might consider suggesting GOP that some agreement cld be reached on steps to cease propaganda and to use best efforts both govts to prevent border incidents and to consult in case they occurred. Both govts appear already agreed in principle on these points. (Karachi tel 33 July 11)

FYI Dept does not favor neutral comm to fix blame past incidents. Emb suggestions under consideration for possible use at later date. Suggestion Wash site talks might imply US mediation which Dept still wishes avoid. Correct Deptel 8, July 6 to read Hashim Khan for Shah Wali.2

Acheson
  1. Foreign Relations, 1950, vol. v, p. 1455.↩
  2. Ambassador Merrell reported in telegram 47, from Kabul, July 19, not printed, that he had conveyed to the Acting Prime Minister the substance of points 1 and 2 of telegram 25 to Kabul, July 14. Ali Mohammad seemed to appreciate the Department’s position but said he did not see how the Afghan Government could accept a Pakistani counterproposal or suggest a means of improving relations until Pakistan had agreed to discuss Pushtunistan. (689.90D/7–1951)↩