Office of the Historian

238. Telegram From the Embassy in Greece to the Department of State0

Athens, June 18, 1958, 3 p.m.

3574. Re Embtel 3503.1

1.
I saw Makarios at my residence late yesterday afternoon. I opened 3/4 hour conversation by reviewing current situation, emphasizing importance his attitude, expressing hope that British plan would receive same careful consideration as obviously went into its preparation, and making strong plea against any irrevocable action which might close door on such consideration. As British Ambassador stated idea of Foot visit has been dropped, I merely expressed hope that indication of willingness discuss plan might promptly lead to Archbishop’s return to Cyprus where he could negotiate directly with Governor.
2.
In his reply and throughout conversation Makarios was cordial, professedly moderate and extremely cautious. Unfortunately he was accompanied by Rossides who kept interjecting his opinions, at times even interrupting Archbishop, which were usually intransigent. [Page 668] Makarios ignored most of these comments but occasionally implied disagreement by making some more moderate remark. I had impression this may have been planned teamwork.
3.
Makarios described his position as very simple. Fate of Cyprus is matter between British and Cypriots. As leader of Greek Cypriots he perfectly willing discuss with British initiation of democratic self-government leaving timing and form eventual self-determination completely open. Except for this implied rejection he made no specific comment on British plans but did say he would make no public comment on it until after British announcement. He asserted that he himself could handle Greek public opinion in case of direct negotiation between him and British and GOG did not need to worry. He gave impression of irritation with GOG.
4.
Following up on his “open-ended” self-determination position I pressed him on whether he would agree to permanent ruling out of both Enosis and partition. He finally said he would consider it. This struck me as rather forthcoming statement in light his generally cautious attitude.
Riddleberger
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 747C.00/6–1858. Secret; Limit Distribution. Received at 1:55 p.m. Repeated to London, Ankara, and Nicosia.↩
  2. Document 220.↩