231. Telegram From the Mission at the United Nations to the Department of State0
Secto 18. Paris for Embassy and USRO. Belgian ForMin Wigny (accompanied by Ambs Scheyven and Loridan) had discussion with Secretary September 26.
Secretary said regretted there had been differences between US and Belgium and wished talk them over as friends. Wigny said also distressed over differences. Must now discuss what can be done at present. Chief problem has been and is Lumumba, a “fool” and totally unreasonable. But everything not lost; immediate future will be important. US action can be decisive. Has not been understood in Belgium, where public opinion felt nation had not had support from US due friend in distress.
Wigny analyzed Congo situation as follows: Must have reasonable people on “other side of table”, mentioning Kasavubu, Ileo, Mobutu and Bomboko. SYG and Western powers must be firm in support those who are against Lumumba. Re Katanga, Belgian policy in past had favored unity of independent Congo; however, with coming of anarchy was important save at least one part of country. Katanga must remain free until new Congo can be built up. If Katanga gives way while Lumumba remains, this end for entire Congo. Again stressed Belgium against destruction Congo unity or separate Katanga state. Wigny said officers of Katanga forces are on leave from Belgian Army and are lent to Force Publique. Do not receive orders from Belgium. If they were to leave situation would be serious.
Wigny said Congo must have strong executive, so as rebuild administrative structure, maintain social and economic achievements, protect private enterprise, and put an end to physical and legal insecurity.
Secretary said he agreed with this analysis. US had made clear only legal Congo govt is that of Kasavubu. We believe Lumumba very dangerous and must be got out of govt. Thus clear whom we support, [Page 509] and we have supplied Hammarskjold with $5 million for assistance. We deeply concerned over attitude Ghana, Guinea and UAR and actions their troops in Congo. May have offer resolution in GA that UN troops in Congo that do not remain under strict UN command must be withdrawn.
Turning to other matters, Wigny said Belgium must maintain support of NATO but it faced with difficulties (financial and political) in maintaining defense contribution.
Secretary said he hoped Belgium would maintain contribution and referred to danger of others following suit if Belgium cuts.
Secretary complimented Wigny on his intervention in GA in reply to Nkrumah.1