890.20/9–749: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Philippines (Cowen) to the Secretary of State
2134. Bangkok’s 777, September 3, and Embtel 2062, August 27. In opinion Embassy, Philippine Government intends go ahead with plans for conference SEA nations for purpose discussing proposed union. Department will recall, however, that Romulo gave opinion as reported Embassy’s reference telegram that meeting could not be held prior November and that he and Quirino pledged not call conference till date sufficiently after Nehru’s US visit to ensure that two events not appear connected.
For Embassy to take action suggested Bangkok’s reference telegram would, in my opinion, place US in position of actively fostering union, particularly as steps of this sort can scarcely be kept secret in Manila. Moreover, it would place President Quirino in position of being encouraged to arrive at important decisions re union in Romulo’s absence. On basis President’s past performance, we feel strongly that initiative should be left in hands Romulo.
Sent Department 2134, repeated Bangkok 46.