Foreign Relations of the United States, 1961–1963, Volume XIX, South Asia

103. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in India⁰

Washington, January 31, 1962, 12:42 p.m.

2576. President had hour’s talk with BK Nehru this afternoon when latter presented Nehru letter stating impossibility GOI accept Black mission. President expressed his keen disappointment, pressed Ambassador as to whether this final word from GOI, which latter claimed was case. At end talk, question of statement to press arose, with problem its negativeness on basis latter. President inquired whether statement could not be withheld here, and GOI itself make statement. He suggested elements for inclusion in such statement as follows: appreciation US concern; admiration for Black; preference for bilateral negotiations; renewal of invitation to Ayub, if possible with Nehru statement he willing meet Ayub anywhere on this problem. Ambassador promised cable Delhi at once urging such GOI statement. USG will withhold statement on meeting with President until reply received.

Ball

0. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 690D.91/1-3162. Secret; Niact; Limit Distribution. Drafted by Talbot and Horgan, cleared by Bromley Smith, and approved by Manfull (S/S). Also sent to Karachi and USUN.