215. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Pakistan 1
1076. We find … reports re Suhrawardy attitude toward Commonwealth disturbing and request you see him earliest to discuss situation along following lines:
It unfortunately true that friends often conceive of their respective and mutual interests in different lights and that serious misunderstandings result. In present instance we, like Pakistani, are deeply concerned at action taken by British and French in resorting to military force against Egypt. We feel however long friendships which have existed between us and vast mutual interests dictate highest order statesmanship in dealing with problem which has arisen as result this difference between us. It extremely important that unfortunate development not be cause for break in Free World solidarity nor result in hasty actions which would have far reaching effects.
Present instance serious though it is should not lead to any weakening defense capabilities of Free World against Soviet imperialism. We of course do not intend permit in any way slackening our support for mutual security arrangements which include British and/or French. As far as Pakistan concerned we would accordingly consider it a most serious setback to security of Free World if Pakistan should withdraw from Commonwealth, Baghdad Pact or SEATO.
We realize that pressures of popular opinion in Pakistan may make position Pakistan Government difficult. We have every confidence however that high statesmanship of leading members of Pakistan Government will find means to bring true interests of Pakistan home to people of Pakistan.
Department understands Suhrawardy may now be Tehran in which case you should discuss matter with him soon as possible after his return.
For Tehran: If Suhrawardy now Tehran you should not take initiative in raising this matter. If however he should bring up question you should respond along foregoing lines.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 790.5/11–556. Secret. Drafted by Randolph L. Higgs of U/OP and Berry; cleared with BNA, NEA, and FE; and approved by Berry. Repeated to Tehran.↩