611.9194/12–2054: Telegram
The Chargé in India (Kennedy) to the Department of State
836. Fourth proposal for continuation US airlines service (A-124)1 as modified by Deptels 7162 and 7273 presented this afternoon to Communications Minister Ram. An unsigned memo outlining proposal together with letter making substantive points justifying consideration left with Minister. Copy memo also transmitted Foreign Secretary. Ram’s initial reaction was that it difficult not to terminate agreement since notice had already been given and there would be great embarrassment if this rescinded. He would not however, close door and said he would have to check with his advisers. I urged that prior any rejection in writing I be given opportunity discuss matter with him further. He said this would be done. I pointed out that it might be worthwhile for him to consider benefit to GOI of not terminating agreement since one of articles provided in principle for Indian airlines to fly to US. In making this point I indicated this had probably been thought of before but might be worthy of another look. Ram, however, did not modify his original reaction that termination would have to go through.