772.00/3–2852: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the United States Mission at the United Nations1

secret priority

362. Re Tunisian case. Now appears Fr-Tunisian negots based on Fr reform program will soon be underway. Since we believe Fr-Tunisian negots are best means toward solution problem, we consider SC consideration at this time undesirable.

You shld convey above soonest to Bokhari pointing out that overriding consideration is peaceful orderly advancement toward home rule in Tunisia. This advancement can best be achieved by direct negots between Fr and Tunisians on basis current Fr offer. In our estimation [Page 704] this offer constitutes an important step towards mtg what appear to be principal Tunisian demands. Without questioning jurisdiction of SC we believe SC consideration at this time wld complicate negots on basis of this offer which presents opportunity of progress. We can not see how any SC action at this time wld facilitate agreement.

Recourse to SC remains open if present prospects prove illusory and if SC assistance shld later appear helpful in bringing parties together.

Under present circumstances US can not support SC consideration.

If Bokhari raises recent Fr actions in Tunis you shld say that while we do not condone Fr resort to forcible methods, important matter is get along with negots toward Tunisian home rule. You are authorized communicate above views to such other dels as you deem advisable.

Acheson
  1. This telegram was drafted by Stein and Elting (UNP) and cleared with the offices of Sale (EUR), Bourgerie, Plitt and Cyr (NEA), McBride (WE), and Hickerson (UNA). Hickerson signed for the Secretary. It was repeated to Paris, Tunis, Karachi, Ankara, Athens, The Hague, London, Rio de Janeiro, Santiago, Taipei, Baghdad, Damascus, Tel Aviv, Cairo, Tripoli, Amman, Jidda, and Beirut.