795.00/4–651: Telegram
The United States Representative at the United Nations (Austin) to the Secretary of State
1371. Re Asian-Arab group mtg, Apr 5—Egyptian and Swedish Del views. On evening of Apr 5, in conversation with Grafstrom (Sweden) and Gross, Fawzi Bey reported developments at Asian-Arab group mtg held at Rau residence Apr 5 (ourtel No. 1362, Apr 4). Group reached no conclusions concerning future steps, although consensus was that this appears to be “opportune time for some effort in direction of peace.” According to Fawzi, group is “concerned” by press reports of intention on part of US Govt or of states with forces in Korea to issue a statement. Fawzi commented that if “any group of members issued a statement, then other groups should feel free to make statements,” obviously referring to Asian-Arab group.
According to Fawzi, group had agreed that it would take no steps without prior discussion “with all interested dels;” in particular, Fawzi mentioned US, UK, France and the three members of GOC. USUN would be requested very shortly to meet with a rep of the Asian-Arab group. Fawzi indicated that at such a mtg questions would be asked us concerning proposed UC statement. (Dept guidance urgently requested.) In reply to question by Gross whether group intends to talk with Sov del, Fawzi was at first evasive, later said group would probably do so, but only following discussions with us.
Fawzi said Padilla Nervo had been invited to sit with the group at afternoon mtg Apr 5, adding that Padilla had been invited “in his personal capacity,” rather than as member GOC. When Grafstrom showed visible annoyance, Fawzi made awkward excuse that group had not been able to find Grafstrom in his office. Grafstrom tactfully ignored Fawzi’s statement, but later told Gross he had been at his office all morning and in fact Padilla had phoned him there re Rau invitation.
Grafstrom strongly argued to Fawzi that GOC task would be made even more difficult if Asian-Arab group, either as a whole or through the Indian rep in Peiping, should make “parallel approaches to Mao.” Grafstrom felt group might usefully support efforts of Entezam to establish contact with CPG. GOC had deliberately chosen to seek contact through Entezam as Pres of GA in order to make it easier for CPG to make a response without at same time recognizing legality of GOC. Grafstrom reminded Fawzi that purpose of GOC “was not to negotiate with Peiping” but rather, to establish contact so as to make [Page 312] it possible for suitable negotiations to take place. Grafstrom emphasized feeling that Asian-Arab group should be careful to avoid lowering prestige of GOC, which was group of individuals entrusted by the GA with a special responsibility. Grafstrom remarked there was a great deal of difference between Panikkar supporting efforts of Entezam to obtain a reply from CPG, and Panikkar representing GOI or Asian-Arab group in an independent effort to establish contact on assumption that Entezam efforts had failed. Fawzi professed to agree, but avoided anything resembling a commitment.
Gross gave general support to line followed by Grafstrom, adding that US Govt had always been and remains receptive to constructive efforts leading to peaceful solution. To that end we give loyal support to GOC and recognize difficulties it faces. Accordingly, Gross expressed personal view there would undoubtedly be disadvantages from standpoint of UN prestige and moral unity if “competitive appeals” were made by informally constituted groups. Rather, it is more likely to lead to productive results if effort is concentrated on a single clearly understood objective. It seemed to us there are only two “parties” to this affair, the aggressors on the one side, and the UN on the other. Referring to suggestion advanced by Rau concerning possible Asian-Arab appeal to UN not to cross 38th parallel (ourtel No. 1330, Mar 26), Gross said we strongly deplore any such suggestion as damaging to unity of the UN and involving a real threat to security of UN forces.
Moreover, the same objections would apply to an appeal “to both sides” not to cross the 38th parallel. Fawzi appeared to be aware of Rau’s suggestion (it is not unlikely idea originated with Fawzi) but refrained from replying to Gross comments. Grafstrom strongly expressed agreement with latter.
Fawzi repeated assurance Asian-Arab group would take no steps without prior consultation with US. Gross expressed gratitude and told Fawzi we were anxious to maintain close contact.