Foreign Relations of the United States, 1958–1960, United Nations and General International Matters, Volume II

37. Telegram From the Department of State to the Mission at the United Nations¹

Washington, October 1, 1958—6:52 p.m.

Gadel 27. For Lodge. Department disturbed over latest activities of Menon and Lall during course GA consideration Chinese representation issue. We fully appreciate that Indians and US do not see eye-to-eye on question Chinese representation. Moreover, we understand, even though we do not agree with, Indian Government’s position. We understand a negative vote on its part and a speech or two stating its public position. What particularly disturbs Department, however, is that activities of Lall and Menon in General Committee and Plenary put India in forefront rather than Soviet Union. In short, active lobbying of Lall and Menon, including applying pressure on certain delegations, puts India in position of doing the job for Soviet Union. We recall also Lall’s unhelpful activities during recent Emergency Special GA consideration of ME. We feel that such activities are harmful to US-Indian relationships and are not understood by American public opinion.

We are not at all sure as to how aware Nehru is of extent of activity of Menon and Lall in this regard. At same time we are very mindful of good relationships which you have developed with Menon and need to avoid deterioration overall US-Indian relationships. Nevertheless, Department believes that point made in paragraph one above should be brought to attention of Nehru, if it can be done without undue embarrassment. We would appreciate your views on this matter and any suggestions as to the best way to convey this information and any other information gathered from your direct contacts with Menon and Lall.²

Dulles

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 310.2/10–158. Secret; Limit Distribution. Drafted by Sisco on September 30, cleared by Bacon and Berry, and approved by Wilcox who signed for Dulles.
2. Lodge responded in Delga 79, October 2, stating that he believed Menon and Lall had acted in accord with Nehru’s policies, and recommended against speaking to Nehru. Lodge assured the Department that he would report any actions by other delegations which warranted such an approach. (ibid., 320/10–258)