656.56D/12–1951: Telegram
The Chargé in the Netherlands (Trimble) to the Secretary of State
619. In conversation with me this afternoon Blom, co-chairman Neth del, confirmed Supomo’s statement that progress with Indo temporarily held up pending Dutch reply Indo aide-mémoire mentioned Embtel 616, Dec 19, adding however that Supomo has been informally advised re views which will be contained in Neth answer. Although Blom reluctant go into details I gathered Dutch will state inter alia willingness include NNG on agenda. Blom stated that in exchanges to date Indo have never taken position that settlement NNG question sine qua non to arrangements which might be worked out re union statute. UN also considered unlikely that Indo Govt would abrogate latter unilaterally even though some elements in PNI and extremists would, in his opinion, favor such move.
Blom continued that up until last week he had considered it would be possible to “find satisfactory basis for discussions”. Atmosphere less propitious at moment however because of recent incidents in Indo involving seizure arms on Dutch ship destined for Neth forces in NNG and demands for shipping documents relating to freight on Dutch vessels (Blom was not entirely clear as to exact nature such documents but considered demand irregular and probably unjustified). Neth feelings re latter incident further exacerbated by temporary arrest six Neth nationals and two Indo employees Dutch shipping company. Blom said Supomo had been informed that it would be difficult for Dutch to carry on discussions as long as such instances occur and that Lamping also instructed take up matter with Indo Govt. Blom seemed hopeful that above issue would be shortly settled and indicated that meanwhile informal talks with Indo del continued.
Like Supomo, he promised keep us currently informed of developments in discussions.
Dept pass Djakarta. Sent Dept 619, rptd info Djakarta 29, London 151, Canberra unnumbered.