501.BC/8–1248: Telegram
The Consul General at Istanbul (Macy) to the Secretary of State
us urgent
239. From Ambassador Wilson. I came to Istanbul yesterday en route US expecting see Foreign Minister who has been here few days and inquire of him frankly re Sarper request for support Turkish candidacy SC seat (Deptel 426, August 9 to Ankara); Sadak however is ill with pneumonia. I therefore requested Perkins in Ankara see Secretary General Foreign Office.
Perkins now advises Secretary General states Turk Government definitely decided would like seek SC seat but could not say Sarper in requesting US support was acting under specific instructions to that end; he was rather exploring lay of land to see what possibilities might be.
In view foregoing I suggest that in reply to Sarper our UN delegation explain to him frankly and fully present trend our thinking in matter and specific reasons which may make it seem desirable to us support India. This should result either in Turks dropping their candidacy and going along with us or else in maintaining candidacy and making firm request for our support. If latter case develops then [Page 109] I strongly urge we support Turks as failure to do so after firm request might well cause misunderstanding and prejudice present most friendly cooperative relations. [Wilson.]