320/1–750: Telegram
The Ambassador in Belgium (Murphy) to the Secretary of State
27. I saw Van Zeeland1 last evening after his return from vacation and communicated to him Department’s suggestion for bilateral consultation on subject of colonial problems (Department’s 1518, December 30). He said he liked the idea and agreed with the form of approach. He promised to discuss it immediately with Minister of Colonies Wigny and to communicate any further reaction of interest.
Van Zeeland confirmed reports that have been sent to Department from time to time regarding growing doubt here as to attitudes of the USDel to UN on some colonial questions. He wondered whether adequate consideration is always given to relationship between high-principled but theoretical approach to some questions and the resultant [Page 439] adverse effect on our vital interests and objectives in other fields particularly as they relate to the Soviet Union. He believes there is a lack of coordination somewhere along the line and hopes that the suggested consultation may succeed in clarifying issues and bringing about a better understanding both by Belgium and US of exactly the side on which our bread is buttered.
Sent Department 27, repeated Paris 2, London 3.
- Paul van Zeeland, Belgian Minister of Foreign Affairs.↩