287. National Security Action Memorandum No. 1790

MEMORANDUM FOR

  • THE SECRETARY OF STATE
  • THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE
  • THE ADMINISTRATOR, AID
  • THE DIRECTOR OF CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE
  • THE DIRECTOR, USIA

SUBJECT

  • U.S Policy Toward Indonesia

With a peaceful settlement of the West Irian dispute now in prospect, I would like to see us capitalize on the US role in promoting this settlement to move toward a new and better relationship with Indonesia. I gather that with this issue resolved the Indonesians too would like to move in this direction, and will be presenting us with numerous requests.

To seize this opportunity, will all agencies concerned please review their programs for Indonesia and assess what further measures might be useful. I have in mind the possibility of expanded civic action, military aid, and economic stabilization and development programs, as well as diplomatic initiatives. The Department of State is requested to pull together all relevant agency proposals in a plan of action and submit it to me no later than September 15th.

John F. Kennedy
  1. Source: Kennedy Library National Security Files, Meetings and Memoranda Series, NSC, NSAM 195. Secret. Copies were sent to Robert Kennedy, the Director of the Bureau of the Budget, Maxwell Taylor, McGeorge Bundy, Robert Johnson, Komer, and Forrestal.