Office of the Historian

61. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Burma1

Washington, March 5, 1957—8:15 p.m.

965. Your 1123.2 Fully appreciate GUB dilemma but believe US military assistance program can be implemented in manner which will not compromise Burmese position non-alignment. While program we have in mind modest in comparison many military assistance programs, it in fact perhaps not small for Burma’s immediate requirements.

Even with treaty allies not possible for US make future commitments military assistance, and with Burma we have no precedent evaluate how satisfactory US military assistance may be from either country’s point of view.

We hope US can be of assistance now help Burma obtain needed and desired training and equipment to improve internal security. Willing work out formula whereby all assistance now provided appear reimbursable. Experience this program would then provide [Page 97] basis for both US and GUB examine desirability and extent future assistance.

Should foregoing reasoning be unacceptable Burmese, you can note unusual nature of request and explain final decision will require US top level consideration after your report.

Dulles
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 790B.5–MSP/3–157. Secret.↩
  2. Document 59.↩