Foreign Relations of the United States, 1961–1963, Volume XVI, Eastern Europe; Cyprus; Greece; Turkey

296. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Cyprus⁰

Washington, November 27, 1963, 8:01 p.m.

225. Ref: Nicosia’s 295.¹ Deputy PM Venizelos² made following points on Cyprus problem during recent contacts with Department officers:

1. He said it was essential make some amendments to Cyprus constitution and indicated GOG has British support. He had spoken to Inonu and Erkin here in Washington in general terms about Greek-Turkish problems and will see latter again at NATO meeting and when guarantor powers meet in Paris. Venizelos asked that we contribute finding solution. Makarios envisages matter as question of negotiation amend certain articles constitution while simultaneously making some concessions to Turks. In response we reiterated our interest maintaining good Greek-Turk relations and stable Cyprus and hoped GOG would talk with GOT and UK. Emphasized hope for solution through negotiation between parties directly involved.

2. British Embassy Washington informed of general pitch of Venizelos statements.

3. For Nicosia: We commend points made your response Makarios plans disclosed reftel. Seek early opportunity inform Makarios we are greatly disturbed at his constant references to “amendments” of constitution. Our reading of situation is that presentation of such a memorandum to guarantor powers as stated would stop GOT and Turk-Cypriot cooperation before it got started and that ultimately he needs this cooperation to solve problem.

4. For Athens: Venizelos’ several references in Washington conversations to amendments also cause concern. We believe he has misread British support for his position.

Rusk

0. Source: Department of State, Central Files, POL 15–5 Cyp. Confidential; Priority. Drafted by Bracken and Schott and approved by Talbot. Repeated to Athens, Ankara, and London.
1. Document 295.
2. Venizelos was a member of the Greek delegation attending the funeral of President John F. Kennedy. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas on November 22.