Foreign Relations of the United States, 1952–1954, China and Japan, Volume XIV, Part 1

611.95A241/12–2254: Telegram

No. 457
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Pakistan¹

secret

Washington, December 22, 1954—7:13 p.m.

828. There have been reports question of captured personnel of United Nations Command still detained by Communist Chinese might be raised at Djakarta conference of Colombo Powers Prime Ministers including reports Prime Minister of Ceylon² might raise matter.

FYI Special message has been sent Sir John Kotelawala thanking him for his interest but requesting him not to take initiative and if matter raised asking him to use his influence discourage any action.³ End FYI.

Believe important this problem which now in hands of the United Nations remain there. Secretary General is now energetically proceeding carry out instruction of the General Assembly and believe simultaneous action by Colombo Powers would not be helpful and could in fact jeopardize chances Secretary General’s efforts. Therefore it is hoped Colombo powers will not discuss matter.

In your discretion take suitable opportunity convey government to which accredited above views.

Dulles

1. Drafted by William L. S. Williams, officer in Charge of India–Nepal–Ceylon affairs; approved with minor revisions by Dulles. Also sent to New Delhi, Djakarta, and Rangoon and repeated to Colombo.
2. Sir John Kotelawala.
3. The message was sent in telegram 2167 to Manila (where Kotelawala was visiting), Dec. 22. (611.95A241/12–2254)