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

513. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Pakistan¹

Washington, September 25, 1968, 2333Z.

245135. Ref: Rawalpindi 7675.² Subject: Peshawar Negotiations. For Ambassador.

1. We are encouraged by your report of Akhbar’s assurance we will be able continue operations through July 17, 1969 with dismantling and withdrawal to take place later. However, legal opinion here unable find any solid base for us to claim such right in agreement itself, and we cannot plan on that basis without written confirmation.

2. We must emphasize that time is running out for decision one way or another. Operating agencies need maximum lead time for orderly phase out of facility.

3. While we agree desirability avoiding visible alteration normal operations and personnel procedures prior to negotiations with GOP, USAF has already had to cease sending dependents not now on orders and we foresee other steps required soon. You should, therefore, initiate negotiations ASAP after your return to Pindi in accordance with State 226368³ in order to achieve an early decision.

4. Should it become evident that extension to 17 July 1970 is not feasible with proposed package, you should attempt obtain written confirmation of Akhbar’s undertaking to permit full operation through July 17, 1969 and dismantling and removal thereafter. Such arrangement would, of course, be preferable to complete evacuation and turnover by July 17, 1969.

Rusk

1. Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Central Files 1967–69, DEF 15 PAK-US. Secret; Priority; Exdis. Drafted by Spain and cleared by Mouser (NEA/INC), Neuman (L/NEA), Wolf (G/PM), Austin and Curl (INR), and Colonel Kravitz (DOD/ISA). Repeated to CINCSTRIKE.
2. In telegram 7675 from Rawalpindi, September 18, Oehlert noted that Ayub was preoccupied with preparations for a trip to East Pakistan and that the time was not ripe to approach him on the Peshawar issue. Oehlert also noted that it would not be good strategy to make such an approach without a resolution of the Pakistani tank request in hand. He felt that until the opportunity to discuss Peshawar with Ayub was more propitious, it would be wise to rely on the assurance offered by General Akhbar that the Peshawar facility could be operated until the termination date and then dismantled. (Ibid.)
3. Document 510.