689.90D/2–953: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Afghanistan1
339. Foreign Minister Pakistan in conversation in Dept authorized use following language in our discussing with GOA sending Afghan Amb Karachi: “Pakistan is agreeable that it would discuss with Afghanistan through diplomatic channels welfare tribal people of two countries on both sides Durand Line.”2 Not entirely clear if Govt of Pakistan agreeable public release by Afghanistan above statement at time Amb is designated but believe such use probably acceptable [Page 1388] since Zafrulla indicated Pakistan would not deny above statement if made.
Suggest unless you perceive serious objection you give appropriate GOA official above quoted statement making fol comments: 1) US hopes GOA will find it possible send Amb Karachi near future and believes above indication Pakistan attitude very helpful. 2) This not a renewal of our 1950 good offices effort but expression our continuing desire improvement relations which of lasting benefit Afghanistan. If question arises indicate US would not wish to be intermediary this matter. 3) Naming Amb Karachi particularly desirable now in view increased pressure from USSR, necessity close working relations in expediting US wheat shipments through Pakistan, and possibility increased chrome ore shipments. 4) This also in pursuance AmbNaim’s statement in Dept last fall that GOA would welcome any effort by US to help improve Afghan–Pakistan relations.3 5) Suggested language known to GOP. 6) Would hope GOA would consult with GOP on question publicity in connection nomination Ambassador.
You should consult with AmbShah before you approach GOA in event he may be in midst operations which US approach might jeopardize. Entirely possible Shah, as well as Pakistan Foreign Office, has no knowledge this matter. Hence you should give him background para one this telegram and if he has reasonable objection to timing or to approach itself please advise with recommendations repeating to Karachi.
If you have reason believe there is substance in para one Moscow telegram 2 Feb 24 and that GOA is on verge naming Amb to Karachi you should not make this approach to GOA pending further information. Cable when approach made so Dept can inform both Afghan and Pakistan Embassies here and Karachi can inform Foreign Office.5 If approach not made because of objection by Shah, Dept will advise Karachi appropriate action to take with Foreign Office.
- Drafted by Metcalf and Kennedy, approved for transmission by Byroade, repeated to Karachi as telegram 1159.↩
- See the memorandum of conversation by Byroade, Jan. 27, supra.↩
- See the memorandum of conversation by Bruce, Oct. 24, 1952, p. 1376.↩
- In telegram 1104 from Moscow, repeated to Kabul as telegram 2, the Embassy reported a rumor to the effect that the Afghan Ambassador in Moscow was about to be appointed Ambassador to Pakistan. (601.8961/2–253)↩
- See telegram 494 from Kabul, Feb. 14, p. 1390.↩