142. Telegram From the Embassy in Italy to the Department of State1
2030. Paris for Secretary.2 Pella reported last night to Gronchi, Zoli and few of their closest confidants (not to Cabinet) on his Latin American and Washington trip. According one of Pella’s associates present at briefing, Pella stated he and whole Ital Delegation highly pleased with atmosphere surrounding Washington meetings. Pella emphasized friendliness of Secy and associates, both at restricted and broader meetings, was greater than at any meeting he has had with USG officials. First time he felt Italy being considered equal partner. He particularly gratified by warmth with which Secy expressed appreciation of Italy’s loyalty and her contributions of ideas which Pella said Secy expressed in “glowing terms almost making us blush” at Sec’s private dinner Friday evening.
With regard US plans for HG meeting, Pella expressed view nine papers circulated by US in Paris go far beyond what had been hoped and represent radical change in US attitude toward alliance. It is his fear, however, they not presented in form to make clear how far US departed from previous relatively negative position and he would hope way could be found present US proposal more spectacularly or dramatically so as to earn credit which USG in his opinion deserves.
With regard Pella Plan Foreign Minister said reception his presentation was as good as could be expected. He emphasized that USG which has principal responsibility and principal burdens cannot on spur of moment make final decisions on difficult and complex problems involved in idea which Pella claimed was sympathetically received by all present, including Secy. He feels Italy’s objective was accomplished by focusing Secy’s and his collaborators’ attention on basic objective, which is more important than mechanism thru which it can be implemented.
Pella recommended, and Gronchi and Zoli agreed, in view understanding shown by Secy for Italy’s aims, Italy should not press Pella Plan without full concurrence US. It was also agreed that broader Middle East economic cooperation plan tentatively considered by Gronchi, covering also trade and technical assistance, will not be presented at Paris meeting.