Foreign Relations of the United States, 1964–1968, Volume XXV, South Asia

387. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in India¹

Washington, November 8, 1966, 7:16 p.m.

81259. Ref: Rawalpindi’s 1751² and 1759;³ Delhi’s 6698.⁴ Subject: Military Supply Policy.

1. We believe discussions with Ayub and Foreign Secretary Yusuf have now reached point where corresponding representations should begin with GOI. We are encouraged by nature Ayub’s response and believe it both tactically and psychologically desirable we move promptly exploit that response.

2. Accordingly you should seek earliest possible opportunity open discussions with Mrs. Gandhi along lines Para 5(h) State 71125.⁵ These could be natural follow-up to highly opportune exchange you had with C.S. Jha reported Embtel 6698. We continue feel it best for present not spell out precise nature talks with Ayub. However you authorized describe our démarche in general terms and to say we are encouraged by both his stance on future ChiCom procurement and readiness find way to begin exploratory talks with GOI, urging Mrs. Gandhi as you did Jha to “try it out” with Ayub. (As indicated Pindi’s 1759, Pak Hicom Delhi reportedly instructed take up idea of secret talks with GOI.)

3. For both Delhi and Rawalpindi: Given Ayub’s upcoming visit UK appreciate knowing reaction your British colleagues to our current efforts.

Rusk

1. Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Central Files 1964–66, DEF 12–5 PAK. Secret; Priority; Exdis. Drafted by Laingen; cleared by Spain, Coon, Wriggins, Handley, Kitchen, Hoopes, and Deputy Assistant Administrator in AID/NESA Walter G. Farr, Jr.; and approved by Hare. Repeated to Rawalpindi, Dacca for Locke, and London.
2. Document 384.
3. In telegram 1759 from Rawalpindi, November 7, Locke reported that Foreign Secretary Yusuf had indicated that his government had received a feeler from Indian Foreign Minister Singh concerning the possibility of secret talks. Yusuf noted that the Pakistani High Commissioner in New Delhi had been instructed to follow up on the opening. (National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Central Files 1964–66, DEF 12–5 PAK)
4. Telegram 6698 from New Delhi, November 5, reported on a conversation between Bowles and C.S. Jha. In the course of discussing relations between India and Pakistan, Bowles noted that the current political environment in each country effectively precluded a public dialogue. Jha agreed and was receptive to Bowles’ suggestion that secret talks without an agenda offered the only good prospect of improving relations. (Ibid., POL INDIA–PAK)
5. Document 382.