501.BC/8–648: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Norway
425. Deptel 379 Aug 3, urtel 526 Aug 6. After full consideration Dept feels Norway best choice to succeed Belgium SC. Please discuss FonMin prior Stockholm meeting Scandinavian Ministers. Decision based primarily on importance Belgian seat remaining in western and northern European area. Scandinavian country seems best possibility succeeding in election, as Belgium not eligible to repeat, Luxembourg too small, Netherlands candidacy might be unsuccessful due Indonesia and fact that already served one term on Council; among Scandinavian countries Iceland too small, Sweden in Dept’s opinion, too disinclined to take stand on issues, Denmark was considered but Norway on balance considered better. If Nor indicate reluctance you should stress duty of states such as Nor to undertake UN obligations even though onerous. Appreciate Nor may be unwilling to make definitive reply until after FonMins meeting in Stockholm.
[Page 121]We understand Brit agree our position and quite likely may make similar representation in Oslo.