Office of the Historian

399.10–UPU/1–2351: Telegram

The Minister in Switzerland (Vincent) to the Secretary of State

confidential
priority
Bern, January 23, 1951—1 p.m.

1041. ReDepcirtel 384, January 15. Following third request Foreign Office has just replied stating it has instructed Swiss delegation to UPU now meeting Cairo to “go as far as possible to support US position” but that he can go no further than abstaining from voting.

Foreign Office explained that to be consistent with recognition Peiping Government and with Swiss attitude at Montreux Conference last year when Communists were admitted on temporary basis, Swiss should really consent to seating Chinese Communist delegation. However, in view our request, delegation instructed to remain neutral and abstain if necessary.

Sent Department 1041, repeated info Cairo 1.

Vincent