868.00/10–447: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in Greece
1636. In conversation with Henderson Oct 2 Tsaldaris expressed reluctance to take immediate steps for foreign supervision of amnesty because of various difficulties and possible complications which he foresaw. Said he had sent telegram to Sophoulis expressing same view. Pursuant Tsaldaris request for further statement of Dept’s attitude, we have today advised Greek Embassy substantially as follows:
We have believed international supervision of Greek amnesty would be desirable, particularly in view of fact that Greek Govt has publicly stated its intention invite international supervision and because of widespread feeling that such supervision might encourage more guerrillas to surrender. We have, therefore, suggested various methods by which such international supervision or observation might be obtained.
We now understand, however, that Greek Govt has doubts practicability and wisdom of endeavoring to introduce international supervision of amnesty at moment. We understand some of those doubts arise from concern lest raising of question of international supervision might tend to confuse deliberations of General Assembly with regard to sending of General Assembly Commission to Greece. Question of inviting international supervision or observation of amnesty is obviously matter which Greek Govt must decide for itself. We therefore do not wish to urge this measure, if Greek Govt is convinced it would be wiser not to take it at this time.
In line with this you should not press matter with Greek Govt.