357.AD/4–1151: Telegram
The United States Representative at the United Nations (Austin) to the Secretary of State
1393. Re appeal by UNCURK to NK people and political leaders. Re UNCURK cables given my preceding tel (Usun 1392).
Malania gave text second cable to Entezam. He found Entezam had been thoroughly briefed by Cordier on background UNCURK consideration of appeal idea. Entezam said he would ask GOC to meet this afternoon. He personally felt GOC should advise UNCURK that such appeal would be “premature”. He did not see how appeal could be approved without some prior indication by NK authorities of their readiness to receive and consider appeal. In the absence of such prior indication, Entezam was “85 per cent sure” appeal would lead to nothing.
Entezam was, however, not sure his colleagues would agree with him. Thinking out loud, he speculated regarding possible compromise in case his colleagues reacted favorably to UNCURK suggestion. One possibility, he thought, would be for GOC to counsel delay until situation further clarified, especially with respect to consequences of Gen. MacArthur’s removal. Another possibility would be for GOC to state that in principle it felt the object of proposed UNCURK appeal was “worthwhile,” but GOC could not take a position without first seeing a text of proposed appeal. Malania formed impression Entezam fully aware of all the implications of UNCURK suggestion and would take no precipitate action.
Grafstrom called today at USUN to discuss certain unrelated questions. We took occasion during his visit to mention that we understood UNCURK was requesting GOC’s views regarding a possible appeal to North Koreans. Grafstrom reacted strongly against the idea. He thought UNCURK appeal at this time would be most ill-advised. He said he would express himself emphatically on this point to his colleagues in GOC.
Malania later told us that in accordance with UNCURK’s request, he was transmitting copies of second cable to delegations of governments represented on UNCURK. He did not intend to comment to [Page 336] these delegations on merits of UNCURK proposal nor would he ask their opinions regarding substance. He intended to inform them that secretariat would be glad to offer its facilities and advice upon request.
In accordance with Sandifer’s telephonic instruction, we took no action in this matter other than as indicated above.
Department may wish repeat Pusan.