756D.5/1–1850: Telegram
The Ambassador-Designate in Indonesia (Cochran) to the Secretary of State
priority
100. Eyes only Lacy1 from Cochran. Sukanto2 visited me today. Hatta3 had told him of message I conveyed re prospective equipment (Embtel 884). Sukanto is checking list of material expected from Netherlands Military preliminary to submitting formal request to US.
In reply to Sukanto’s query re prospects program for organizing and training police, I said had told Hatta few points which should be considered by Hatta, Sukarno5 and myself before making any recommendations to you. I gave reasons why I doubted feasibility undertaking this time extensive organization. Opposed particularly our sending group under-cover men. Said we could arrange instructions US for up to ten Indos whom he might choose for specialization provided RUSI would cover per diem expenses amounting approximately $15. Sukanto said would be embarrassed if he had to seek funds officially from RUSI Government this purpose. I told him we had explored but found impossible use any part 75 [5?] million for living expenses his trainees. Told him I would let you know his problem and see if anything can be done. I have subsequently discussed this with Beam6 who referred to SecState’s special fund used for instance for evacuating German doctors from Berlin 1948. He also believes CIA [Page 967] could provide necessary funds. I am aware from my recent visit that there might be some objection to bringing CIA in on this. Would appreciate your advice as to whether such funds or other sources could be tapped.
Sukanto raised question whether we could send three or four highly qualified instructors openly to Djakarta to conduct police classes. I still feel better pursue proposed policy of training several Indos soonest in US and then letting them educate other Indos here. Again would appreciate your comments.
Sukanto expressed concern over prospect of establishment here of either Soviet or Communist China mission or both. Said this would make extremely difficult keeping two million Chinese in hand. Asked if we could provide some one to advise him on Communist tactics. In answer my question whether he wanted some one on his staff or simply consult with my staff he suggested latter. I told him Beam and Arturo would be glad talk with him at any time since they have had considerable experience. I preferred make no recommendation beyond this unless and until we see likelihood of Communists mission being established.
- William S. Lacy, Jr., Director of the Office of Philippine and Southeast Asia Affairs.↩
- Raden Said Sukanto, Chief of the Indonesian State Police.↩
- Dr. Mohammed Hatta, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of the Republic of the United States of Indonesia.↩
- Not printed: it reported that Cochran had told Hatta that President Truman had approved the $5 million expenditure for the Indonesian constabulary and had provided Hatta with a list of equipment for the force (756D.56/1–1650).↩
- President of the Republic of the United States of Indonesia.↩
- Jacob D. Beam, Consul General at Djakarta.↩