357.AB/8–451: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in India
secret
Washington, August
15, 1951—6 p. m.
378. Re Kashmir (Embtel 495, Aug 4): Dept greatly appreciates reftel’s suggestions. We have fol comments:
- a.
- For present at least we think advisable so far as possible separate troop movement and Kashmir dispute aspects Ind-Pak tensions. Linking both aspects as part single approach wld undoubtedly hamper Graham’s efforts effect demilitarization. Thus, we believe shld await Graham report before considering action along lines pts (3)–(6) reftel since these suggestions all concern matters bearing directly on Graham’s mission.
- b.
- Pts (1) and (2) reftel seem good basis for action re more immediate cause tension; the troop movements. (See para 5 Deptel 76 to USUN Aug 6 (rptd London 823, Delhi 303, Karachi 144)).
- c.
- Pt (3) reftel describes one solution we hoped cld be effected by previous UN Rep Dixon. It remains possibility under certain conditions.
- d.
- Pt (4) reftel wld be excellent immediate objective for any proposals dealing with Ind-Pak tensions. We are considering this, but have doubts Nehru wld be willing or cld afford call off Constituent Assembly, in view GOI and his personal stand to contrary. We note Embtel 478 Aug 4 [3] paragraphs 1 and 2(2) indicate doubts re suggestion pt (4) reftel.
- e.
- Pts (5) and (6) reftel are really matters for Graham under present terms reference.
We agree with Emb that new approach might have greater chance success if made by party other than US–UK. We are considering possibilities including Indo and Can.
Webb