690D.91/9–2354: Telegram
The Chargé in Pakistan (Emmerson) to the Department of State1
394. Cabinet Secretary today furnished Embassy in confidence copies Nehru’s top secret letter of August 23 to Pakistan Prime Minister and latter’s reply of September 21. Copies will be pouched.2
On Kashmir Nehru reiterates point on United States military aid changing context Kashmir dispute particularly with regard quantum of forces. Ali repeats usual Pakistan arguments, revives Liaquat’s proposal no-war declaration with assurances on settlement disputes, concludes Kashmir dispute must go back to Security Council and proposes publication Kashmir correspondence October 1.
In discussion Kashmir question Ahmed expressed fear United States military aid to Pakistan will become serious issue and publication correspondence will lead many doubters to believe chances for Kashmir settlement shattered by United States military aid. Ahmed stated numerous Pakistani who basically favorable United States aid now having second thoughts based on risks incurred by Pakistan. Such individuals would be led further to doubt wisdom military aid by arguments on Kashmir.
Cabinet Secretary said United States would inevitably hold great responsibility in SG discussions this issue; United States position would be of greatest importance in Pakistan eyes. United Kingdom, according Ahmed, basically cool to United States aid and now more anti-Pakistan than any time since partition (partly due to GOP decision become republic); USSR now violently anti-Pakistan; thus United States only friend.
I mentioned that United States position must necessarily be one designed to try bring about agreement between both parties. We could not take position which would in effect prevent such agreement.
With respect our participation SC debate Embassy believes United States must be prepared defend vigorously United States military aid to Pakistan refuting specious arguments that context Kashmir issue thereby altered. Regardless our position on other aspects of case this would seem obligation we must fulfill.
Cabinet Secretary expects reply from Nehru shortly and unless latter insists on continuing correspondence Foreign Minister will be instructed prepare case for SC.