Foreign Relations of the United States, 1958–1960, South and Southeast Asia, Volume XV

421. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in the Philippines¹

Washington, August 30, 1958—6:08 p.m.

621. Ref: Deptels 3370, 2377.²

1. We aware that, in discussing jurisdiction arrangements in October talks, you may be faced with Phil refusal agree on any general waiver arrangement on grounds no such arrangement exists between US and Japan. Under present circumstances you would be unable divulge existence [less than 1 line of source text not declassified] arrangement between US and Japan, under which Japanese have in effect granted general waiver their primary jurisdiction except in cases particular importance to them. In light President Garcia’s Washington speech before National Press Club, we can only expect Phils demand from us equal treatment with Japan; [2 lines of source text not declassified].

2. Japanese Government has expressed desire to obtain modification existing US-Japanese security arrangements so that we will consult (i.e. reach mutual agreement) with them before we take action [less than 1 line of source text not declassified] to use our bases or forces in Japan for operations outside that country [less than 1 line of source text not declassified].

One important factor we would wish take into account in considering Japanese desires would be effect such modification on our relations with Phils and would appreciate your estimate.

Herter

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 711.56396/8–3058. Secret; No Distribution Outside Department. Drafted by Brand; cleared with SPA, NA, and FE; and approved by Parsons. Repeated to Tokyo.
2. Documents 401 and 397.