746E.13/3–1154: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in Ceylon
311. Embtels 2861 and 233.2 As you know Department has not been attracted to proposal that Sir John be invited to the United States because under present circumstances there would be little of concrete nature to discuss with him. Although we are interested in intimations that some consideration being given by Government of Ceylon to ending rubber trade with Communist China and are exploring possibilities of general action regarding rubber and other matters which you discussed with Jernegan, do not yet see basis for any mutually satisfactory understanding.
[Page 1607]Nevertheless some response to Sir John’s importunities might be desirable in view imminent Colombo conference of South Asian Prime Ministers. If you agree it would be helpful you may give Sir John orally and informally message along following lines:
You have reported Sir John’s interest in visiting US sometime following Prime Ministers conference at Colombo and you have now received message that Department considers visit by him to US under appropriate circumstances would be very helpful and he of course would be warmly welcomed. However present not propitious time in light heavy schedules President, Secretary and top advisors and Geneva discussions. You may assure Sir John that in connection with forward planning of official visits desirability of his visiting Washington will be kept very much in mind.