Foreign Relations of the United States, 1961–1963, Volume XXV, Organization of Foreign Policy; Information Policy; United Nations; Scientific Matters

250. Circular Telegram From the Department of State to Certain Posts¹

Washington, April 9, 1963, 7:45 p.m.

1740. Ref: Purchase of UN Bonds by New Members. Depcirtel 1526,² CA-9150.³

The United Nations financial condition continues to be difficult because many members have not paid their Congo and UNEF assessments and because only 59 members have subscribed $148.7 million in bonds, leaving over $50 million yet to be pledged. The country to which you accredited, being a new member of UN, has not as yet been assessed for any UN costs.

If the new members could make even token purchases (range $10–$25 thousand) this would jump the number countries participating into the mid-60s. You can point out importance of UN to newer and less developed countries. A token bond purchase would tangibly demonstrate interest and value they attach to their membership.

To be effective, pledges should be made by May 14 when Special Session begins. Even though increasing the number of bond subscribers is important, further approach is in your discretion and should be weighed in view your total efforts with govt you accredited on UN financing efforts.

Ball

1. Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Central Files 1960–63, UN 10–4. Confidential. Drafted by A. K. Lampert and Wilbur H. Ziehl, cleared by George N. Monsma and W. Paul O’Neill, and approved by Frank K. Hefner. Sent to Algiers, Kampala, Kigali, Kingston, Port of Spain, and Usumbura, and repeated to USUN.
2. Circular telegram 1526 requested posts to approach their governments within 2 weeks to encourage purchases of UN bonds. (Ibid.)
3. See footnote 3, Document 243.