Office of the Historian

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

Washington, November 23, 1959—6:16 p.m.

Gadel 138. Re: Outer Space, Delga 487.2 For Lodge from Secretary.

1.
Although Dept recognizes Kuznetsov’s composition proposals outlined reftel represent first serious offer re composition from Soviet’s since beginning GADel’s negotiations this GA, we believe all formulae contained reftel would provide USSR with highly disproportionate share of representation, in comparison with concept of equitable geographic representation. Moreover in context outer space question it is demonstrable fact that nations other than those possessing satellite launching capability are making meaningful contribution to international cooperation in peaceful uses outer space.
2.
Dept prepared, in order obtain USSR participation UN outer space committee, make departure from strict proportionate geographic representation in direction favorable USSR but we believe this must be held reasonable minimum. Moreover, question desirability both on merits and as precedent of including virtually all Soviet bloc in membership of any UN committee.
3.
In light foregoing GADel should now direct negotiating effort toward reducing number of Soviet bloc states in various formulae which have been advanced and of increasing number of states which would fall in so-called neutral category. As first step for this purpose we recommend that you advance composition proposal of 11 Western, 4 Soviet and 6 neutrals.
4.
If proposal para 3 above not accepted, GADel authorized propose composition of 12 Western, 5 Soviet and 6 neutrals and as fallback should accept composition of 12 Western, 6 Soviet and 5 neutrals. FYI Fallback position as I now see it is maximum and if not acceptable to USSR we see no alternative but to break off negotiations on this point. End FYI.
5.
If any formulae indicated paras 3 and 4 above accepted, GADel should insist upon reasonable share of friendly neutrals along lines outlined para 13, Delga 487. GADel should also make clear to USSR we will not accept Hungary in any agreed to composition formula.
Herter
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 320.5701/11–1959. Confidential; Priority. Drafted by Cargo and Grand on November 21, cleared by Wilcox and Kohler, and approved by Calhoun who signed for Herter. Repeated to Geneva.↩
  2. See footnote 3, supra.↩