391. Telegram From the Delegation to the U.N. General Assembly to the Department of State 0
Delga 82. Re: Tibet. Dixon (UK) told us Kuznetsov (USSR) had spoken to him “very seriously” about Irish initiative on Tibet which latter assumed US and UK were actively encouraging. Kuznetsov argued discussion would range beyond Tibet; would spoil present international atmosphere and relaxation of tensions; and would increase difficulties between India and Communist China. He added USSR had hoped present session might be free from cold war taint. He urged British to “use their influence” to ensure that no discussion take place.
Dixon said Kuznetsov’s approach had caught him unprepared but that he had made quick decision to be completely frank. He had therefore told Kuznetsov UK did not favor Tibetan item and had been seeking to discourage idea. At same time he had noted widespread sympathy for Tibetan people and had emphasized UK was in no position to seek to dictate to Irish. Furthermore, British public opinion was such that if item were proposed UK would support it. Kuznetsov expressed doubt British could not dissuade Aiken. However, when Dixon asked whether he had [Page 789] not talked to Aiken himself, Kuznetsov admitted that he had and had been unable to make any headway with him. He went so far as to suggest UK and USSR might jointly approach Aiken, though he did not press this suggestion.
Dixon said he had emphasized British desire to see Tibetan item considered in “non-political” manner and expressed hope USSR would approach item in same way. Kuznetsov had replied he would do his best but qualified this by saying he was not afraid to fight and would undoubtedly have to say “hard things” in discussion.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 793B.00/9–2859. Confidential.↩