321. Editorial Note
Antarctica was discussed during the meeting of the Southeast Asia Treaty Organization members at Canberra, March 13–14. In an April 3 letter, Robert Cutler, President Eisenhower’s Special Assistant for National Security Affairs, noted:
“As a result of Australian concern over the presence of the Soviets in Antarctica, following the termination of the International Geophysical Year (1957–1958), and subsequent discussions at the recent SEATO meetings at Canberra, the Secretary of State requested that the National Security Council undertake a review of U.S. policy with respect to claims in Antarctica.”
Eisenhower, he continued, had approved Planning Board review of the question. (Eisenhower Library, White House Central Files, Confidential File, Antarctic Commission and Expedition)