Foreign Relations of the United States, 1964–1968, Volume XVI, Cyprus; Greece; Turkey

302. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Greece¹

Washington, September 15, 1967, 0019Z.

37758. NATUS. Ref: Athens’ 1266; Ankara’s 1220.²

1. While Department had not expected weekend talks between Greek and Turk Prime Ministers would lead to immediate or dramatic results, we are disappointed learn that two parties were so far apart. We had felt earlier Toumbas-Caglayangil conversations were leading in direction “compensated enosis” and had believed GOG willingness offer GOT sovereign base area on Cyprus would be main ingredient in Turkish acceptance enosis. On other hand, Greek delegation probably went Kesan/Alexandropolis meeting with somewhat exaggerated expectations. One can speculate that becoming aware of Greek junta’s desire achieve settlement for political reasons, GOT has somewhat raised its price for agreement. We would appreciate views Embassies Athens and Ankara this point.

2. We are concerned lest this setback could lead to loss momentum and dissipation of favorable atmosphere which has existed. Both sides seem be weary of prolonged stalemate since December 1963. In talking with senior officials of GOG and GOT, we hope you will convey our strong belief that Prime Ministerial meeting, although lacking in concrete results, represents act of statesmanship and sincere endeavor to frankly come to grips with Cyprus problem. We hope that both countries will avoid taking rigid or intransigent positions, and will not rake over past grievances. Important thing now is that talks continue, and that real effort be made compromise on differences which, if substantial, do not seem be irreconcilable.

Rusk

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, POL 27 CYP. Secret; Exdis. Drafted by Horner, cleared by NEA, and approved by Rockwell. Also sent to Ankara and repeated to Nicosia, London, and Paris.
2. These telegrams, both dated September 12, reported Greek and Turkish impressions of the September 9–10 meetings of Prime Ministers Demirel and Kollias. Telegram 1266 from Athens is ibid., POL GREECE–TUR; telegram 1220 from Ankara is ibid., POL 27 CYP.