694.001/8–2451: Telegram
The Ambassador in Indonesia (Cochran) to the Secretary of State
priority
310. Trusted Cabinet friend told me early this morning outlook uncertain as to what Indo decision wld be on participation San Francisco.1 I suggested and he agreed I endeavor see Vice Pres Hatta who had been present when Cabinet last discussed this question and will attend session tonight which is to take decision.
Recd by Hatta noon today. I expressed concern over possibility Indo might fail participate San Francisco. I argued in favor participating [Page 1297] and signing and against Indo taking isolated position that wld gain Indo nothing and be misunderstood internationally. I said delegation could place on record any views govt might instruct. Furthermore over-all San Francisco agreement cld be followed by bilateral trade agreement between Indo and Japan.
Hatta said Cabinet had made up mind several days ago for FonMin Subardjo head delegation and go San Francisco. Increasing opposition had developed in press and polit circles principally he said because of fear Jap resuming powerful and aggressive role in Far East. I said steps had been taken and further steps could be envisaged to remove any threat of aggression on part Japan against Indo. I said better let Japan be free and sovereign state than risk alternative of deterioration into Commie country. Hatta is today exerting his influence on PriMin Sukiman [Wirjosandjojo] and other Masjumi2 leaders to endeavor get entire party support San Francisco. PNI3 decided at last night’s party meeting to support participation, but minority within Masjumi still resisting. Hatta promised continue his efforts and hoped for success at tonight’s meeting.
- In telegram 296, from Djakarta, August 22, Mr. Cochran reported in part on a conversation held the previous evening with Foreign Minister Subardjo as follows: “In answer my question whether any serious obstacles [regarding Indonesian attendance at San Francisco] he replied negatively but said Cabinet members desired implore their party leaders further before final decision. He said some uneasiness over fisheries and trade issues. I stressed impossibility one over-all treaty mtg requirements all participating states and urged resort to bilateral treaty between Indo and Jap.” (694.001/8–2251) Other documents in file 694.001 for August 1951, make clear that Ambassador Cochran was referring to a bilateral treaty as a supplement to, not a replacement for, Indonesian adhesion to the multilateral Japanese Peace Treaty.↩
- Indonesian Moslem Council.↩
- Partai Nasional Indonesia (Indonesian National Party).↩