Foreign Relations of the United States, 1969–1976, Volume XL, Germany and Berlin, 1969–1972

312. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Germany¹

Washington, August 21, 1971, 0111Z.

153863. For Ambassador From the Secretary. Subject: Berlin Talks: Draft Agreement. Ref: Bonn 4386 [10262].²

1. I look forward to a full discussion with you on Wednesday³ of the Berlin draft agreement. I fully understand that in your capacity as US Negotiator you felt the responsibility to accord your agreement to the text which you had worked out in such laborious negotiations on the understanding that it was ad referendum to governments. My personal concern is that the President should be fully protected against the charge of selling out Berlin.

2. Given the considerations outlined in your telegram, I have no objection to your agreeing to the text for referral to governments, but in doing so I believe it essential for you to make clear at Monday’s meeting that Washington wishes to give careful consideration to a number of the formulations used in the text, particularly insofar as they pertain to the status of Berlin. Therefore, the Soviets should not claim bad faith if the United States wishes to clarify and alter certain points before final agreement is reached.

3. Re para 4 our 152955⁴ we will not make approach to French, British and Germans.

4. Timing of signing will be determined during your consultations in Washington.

Johnson

1. Source: National Archives, RG 59, Central Files 1970–73, POL 28 GER B. Secret; Priority; Nodis. Drafted by Sutterlin; cleared by Brower, Fessenden, Eliot, and Haig; and approved by Rogers.
2. Document 307.
3. August 25.
4. Document 306.