793B.00/7–2151: Telegram
The Ambassador in India (Henderson) to the Secretary of State
302. Deptel 168 to Calcutta 39, rptd London 461.1 Occasion taken last night to inform Dutt (MEA) along lines proposed in reftel, except that I did not directly suggest invitation DL to visit India. GOI has several times indicated to Emb its firm view that first approach re any such visit shld be made by Tibetans and early in conversation Dutt stated that GOI did not wish to take any action that might be construed as attempt to influence DL or Tibetan decision in Tibetan relations with Commie China. It did not seem expedient therefore to do what cld have been regarded as pressure.
I stressed to Dutt, however, belief held in Wash that Tibetan del subjected duress in Peking, and indications that DL might not have freedom of action to make decision accept or reject Sino-Tibetan agreement, also US policy of sympathy and support where feasible for nations seeking maintain their independence and our view that DL shld have opportunity to make free decision. In conclusion I said it was greatly to be hoped that some way might be found to give DL such opportunity.
Dutt had very little to say but did state that DL had been informed of GOI willingness accord him asylum (see Embtel 269, July 19). Dutt intimated that info had been communicated to DL through GOI trade agent Yatung, but admitted latter did not have direct access to DL. What channel had been used was not stated.
Time did not permit prior advice to UKHC of call on GOI; Emb convinced UKHC wld not have supported our action. They have, however, been informed about it today.
Sent Dept 302, rptd info Calcutta 54, London 16.
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