690D.91/5–2152: Telegram
The United States Representative at the United Nations (Austin) to the Department of State
844. Re: Kashmir.
- A.
- USUN called on Graham at his request with
Marin and Jackson
present. During a conversation in which we conveyed the points
contained in Deptel 441 of
May 29 [20], the fol points were touched
on:
- 1.
Graham felt disadvantage of SC mtg at this stage is that Paks might press for Art 37 res and upon failure to obtain it they wld feel they had suffered another defeat. But for short time before Malik presidency Marin wld favor SC debate now.
There was general feeling that tentative USUN suggestion of SC dinner with parties and Graham present might be useful device for Graham early in his negotiations.
- 2.
Graham expressed repeated concern at having Indians arrive not knowing of strict limitation of authority of Pak del. Paks had told him of this on very confidential basis and therefore, he hesitated to repeat it to GOI.
Marin suggested, and Graham appeared to agree, that when discussing agenda of talks it wld be appropriate to point out limitations on Pak del’s authority. He thought Graham’s position wld be protected by reply to recent Pak letter along lines suggested in Deptel. Graham and Marin indicated that given current attitude of parties there is little if any room to maneuver and to make negotiations produce results. However, USUN recalled that this period might be used, as Graham had suggested, for discussing a place to which both govts might send higher level dels.
- 3.
- Graham asked us to confirm that in his next report, especially if a final one, he can state such conclusions as he desires. Jackson suggested that the conclusions of such a report might not lend themselves to the adoption by the SC of an Art 37 res.
- B.
- After the above meeting, Graham telephoned USUN, stating that he had decided to address a letter to GOP expressing his gratification that its del is en route and recalling his terms of reference as stated in his original and clarifying aide-mémoire to GOP.
- C.
- In subsequent conversation with Rajan (India), USUN was probed about what Pak attitude will be. He inquired who wld represent GOP and we indicated probably Ayub and we were uncertain who else. He wondered how limited Pak del wld be by instrs and we expressed opinion it wld be limited but important thing is UN mediator authorized to act under his own terms of reference. He inquired our understanding of UN rep’s mention in 22 Apr report of “other factors … bearing on demilitarization.” We suggested he direct that inquiry to Graham.
He indicated personal feeling SC debate wld be undesirable. We pointed out it is reasonable to expect some flexibility in position of both parties if negotiations continue.
Graham has suggested to parties that negotiations begin at hdqtrs on May 29.