125. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Afghanistan 1

524. Embtel 786.2 Department has under study recommendation made by Embassy Karachi that in view conflicting interpretation in India and Pakistan of US-Pak bilateral, and of previous statements relating to both countries, statement be issued outlining US historic policy opposing aggression. If decision made to issue such statement, it could be used in Kabul as well as Karachi and New Delhi. Until this decision made, however, Department prefers Ambassador not raise question US attitude in case aggression committed against Afghanistan. This particularly important in view history known to Embassy of RGA past efforts obtain from US guarantee frontiers of Afghanistan.

If bilaterals or US attitude in case aggression against Afghanistan should be raised by RGA, you may comment orally as follows: Re bilaterals, text of which together with Department’s statement have already been handed to RGA and attest to their open nature, they reflect previously communicated policies of US and are intended solely to strengthen signatory states’ economic development and defense [Page 263] postures and thereby contribute to overall ME stability. They are not directed against Afghanistan. In this connection RGA well aware deep and sustained US belief that Pak-Afghan rapprochement is in their mutual interest and bilaterals in no way alter our determination as sincere friend of both states to continue to work for this end. Re US attitude in case of aggression against Afghanistan, we hope RGA will agree that US has amply demonstrated its readiness pursuant obligations UN Charter, to which we know Afghanistan no less than US adheres, consider how best assist any victim of aggression.

Herter
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.89/3–1959. Confidential; Niact. Drafted by Leon B. Poullada and Herman F. Eilts and approved by Rountree. Repeated to Karachi and New Delhi.
  2. Dated March 19. (Ibid., 611.89/3–1959)