415. Telegram 56144 From the Department of State to the Embassy in Pakistan1 2

REF:

  • Islamabad 1675

SUBJECT:

  • Timing of Bangladesh Recognition

1. You should inform President Bhutto soonest that we have reviewed entire matter of Bangladesh recognition, giving careful consideration to his suggestions on timing. We have concluded we should recognize in near future and want Bhutto to know that we plan to announce recognition on April 4. You should caution him that this information must be held in closest confidence until our announcement made.

  1. Source: National Archives, RG 59, Central Files 1970–73, POL 16 BANGLADESH. Secret; Priority; Nodis. Drafted by Laingen; cleared by Davies, Sisco, Brown, and Kissinger; and approved by Rogers. Repeated Priority to Dacca and New Delhi
  2. Chargé Sober was instructed to inform Pakistani President Bhutto that the United States intended to recognize Bangladesh on April 4.