603.4193/9–2151: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in the United Kingdom
1685. Re Embtel 1478 Sep 21, rptd New Delhi 670, Moscow 198, Bern 385, Sep 22.
Dept of course not in position to stipulate precise method of approach by Missions concerned, however it feels obliged to ascertain whether powers approached are giving concrete assistance; some have already taken definite action. While representations might be joint, parallel, or delegated to one power, the important thing in our eyes is that the central Commie auths be clearly cognizant which powers are participants, that representations be so couched as to call for Commies to take a responsible position, and that representing power or powers report back action taken. Move by Roschin wld be acceptable if it is concrete and has rep character. However, a perfunctory dipl démarche, with no certainty of its character or of any response thereto, wld not meet needs critical situation Amer and other fon natls and this Govt wld still feel bound seek action which cld be pointed to as the strongest dipl effort it cld make. We remain cognizant of unique problem various powers have in maintaining relations with Commie regime. However, we do not believe that merely the fear of embarrassing or drawing anger from that regime shld deter fon powers from extracting from it internatl responsibility which it claims and [Page 1812] which these powers have acknowledged by accepting relations with it.
This Govt has no intention use representations as subj for polit propaganda, more particularly as such use might tend defeat serious aim effecting release its natls. Any adverse polit effects which may result from situation wld be attributable to actions of Chi auths themselves and not to justifiable measures taken by protecting powers. Dept probably cannot avoid giving some publicity eventually to present operation; this wld be especially true if present measures fruitless, since relatives and associates these Amers must know that every effort has been made by this country on their behalf. Care wld be taken that publicity not be injudicious or such as to reflect upon actions of Missions participating.
London, New Delhi, Bern communicate above views orally to FonOff. Moscow use within its discretion as occasion offers.
Info in London’s 1505 Sep 25 (being rptd addressees this msg) affords hopeful signs positive action.
Reptd info AmEmbassy New Delhi 693, AmEmbassy Moscow 213, AmLegation Bern 401.