Editorial Note
On May 18, Murphy discussed Indochina and several other topics with Ambassador R. S. S. Gunewardene of Ceylon. Murphy pointed out that Secretary Dulles was continuing efforts to promote a regional grouping in the area of Indochina.
“Mr. Gunewardene said that his personal reaction was that some grouping for consultative purposes was necessary. Such a group might consult together, observe the situation, and it might in time be able to work up to something more positive. He thought some forum had to be created and that the grouping should not be too rigid and legalistic at the start. He believed preconceived ideas did [Page 490] not help discussion; there should be a free exchange of ideas and then the group should reach the largest possible measure of agreement. He said that each Asian country has its own problems and suggested that perfect unanimity among the Asian nations was not likely although they tended to view Indochina and similar problems in much the same light. He believed that the Communists have exploited nationalism in Indochina.” (Memorandum of conversation by William L. S. Williams, Officer in Charge of India, Ceylon, and Nepal Affairs; 751G.00/5–1854)