Office of the Historian

320/8353: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in India1

confidential
priority
Washington, August 3, 1953—6:26 p.m.

126. Take up following UN election matters most urgently with MEA:

(1)
Re Eighth GA Presidency inform MEA in strict confidence US has decided support Madam Pandit if she becomes candidate but will not campaign on her behalf, and request MEA transmit to Madam Pandit personal message from Ambassador Lodge included in immediately following telegram. Also ascertain from MEA whether she is definitely a candidate. Ind Emb recently raised this matter with Department.
(2)
Re SC election inform MEA US has given careful consideration candidacies of New Zealand and India to replace Pakistan and has decided support New Zealand. As GOI aware, we have in past taken views Commonwealth Members into acount in determining our position this seat, and we understand New Zealand has support most Commonwealth Members. We appreciate problem raised GOI aide-mémoire regarding desirability adequate Asian representation in SC and will continue give thought this problem.

In accordance Department’s discussions New Zealand Embassy inform New Zealand Prime Minister as soon as you have given Indians info on SC position and in case any delay consult with him re timing your approach Indians. Holland intends discuss SC seat with Nehru.

Smith
  1. Drafted by Paul W. Jones and signed by Assistant Secretary Murphy. Repeated for information to Wellington and USUN.↩