Office of the Historian

163. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Japan0

Washington, May 25, 1960, 3:18 p.m.

2786. Eyes only for Ambassador from Secretary. Embtels 38401 and 3825.2 Your helpful report of conversation with Fukuda opens way for what I believe is best practical solution for postponement of Presidential visit.

You should approach Kishi along lines your 3825 indicating we concur in suggestion but that postponement will of necessity have to be more than two or three weeks, corresponding with approximate dates contained in my 2763.3

Kishi should take initiative in suggesting postponement and President will be willing to respond immediately indicating his agreement saying that visit will be postponed and take place last few days July and early days August, details to be worked out later. Press ticker from Japan this morning indicates this idea is already leaking in Japanese press which should make it easy for Kishi to take this initiative.

Herter
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 711.11–EI/5–2560. Secret; Niact. Drafted by Steeves; cleared by Goodpaster at the White House and by Herter in draft; and approved by Calhoun.↩
  2. Document 162.↩
  3. Document 161.↩
  4. Document 159.↩