Foreign Relations of the United States, 1969–1976, Volume V, United Nations, 1969–1972

235. Telegram From the Mission to the United Nations to the Department of State¹

New York, December 1, 1971, 0122Z.

4657. Subj: SYG Succession: Ramphal Candidacy. Ref: USUN 4564.²

1. Guyanan Perm Rep Talbot called on Bush Nov 30 to deliver S.S. Ramphal’s curriculum vitae and report on his meetings with other four permanent members of SC.

2. Talbot said he had discussed Ramphal’s availability for post of SYG with the other SC members along lines of his discussion with Bush (reftel). PRC Perm Rep Huang Hua said PRC was completely uncommitted on this question at this time, but Talbot had definite impression Chinese were giving thought to the question of SYG succession. Malik (USSR) said he would be glad to add Ramphal’s name to list of ten or so names currently being talked about. Malik noted, however, there was no U (for U Thant) on this list. Malik reportedly voiced opinion Thant might accept interim reappointment. UK Del allegedly received suggestion of Ramphal’s name with interest. Talbot did not report any French reaction.

3. Bush said Malik was being consistent in continuing to talk about Thant staying on. Unfortunately, Soviets continue to be evasive despite fact time was getting short. Bush said he was personally pleased to add Ramphal’s name to list of potential candidates. He told Talbot he would forward curriculum vitae to Dept and assured Talbot he would carefully consider Ramphal’s qualifications.

4. Copy curriculum vitae pouched Dept attention IO.³ Available biographic information on Ramphal requested.

Bush

1. Source: National Archives, Nixon Presidential Materials, NSC Files, Box 303, Agency Files, USUN, Vol. IX. Secret; Exdis. Repeated to Georgetown.
2. Telegram 4564 f om USUN described a November 26 meeting between Bush and Talbot, in which Talbot first mentioned that S.S. Ramphal was a candidate for Secretary-General. Talbot planned to approach other Permanent Members and requested that his meeting with Bush be considered “exploratory and confidential” until further notice. (Ibid., RG 59, Central Files 1970–73, UN 8–3)
3. Not found.