850.33/12–1354: Telegram
No. 233
The Secretary of
State to the Office of the United
States Representative to the European Coal and Steel
Community, at Paris1
Edcol 42. For Bruce. In your discretion please see Monnet and convey orally message from me along following lines.
Begin message. It was with deepest regret that Secretary heard several weeks ago of Monnet’s decision relinquish Presidency and resign from HA. Since that time he retained hope that Monnet might be persuaded by his colleagues reconsider this decision so that Community in this formative period might continue have benefit his wise leadership. At same time Secretary has felt inhibited from endeavoring influence him since he believed this primarily a European matter and more importantly because he was confident that Monnet had made his decision in full and considered knowledge all factors involved. Secretary now understands that efforts of representatives of member governments have failed induce him change his mind. He is sorry because believes that progress of CSC, with all it represents for future of European integration, could best be assured under Monnet’s continued guidance.
Secretary fully understands Monnet’s reasons however and has complete admiration for wisdom tact and leadership he has shown in translating into actuality a bold and inspired conception which will serve as beacon for future. This contribution has indeed been memorable and historic. End message.
Suggest you take occasion discuss with Monnet our concern over effect his departure on operations CSC and particularly on ability High Authority cope with mounting national and industry pressures; seek his views on pattern for future progress towards European [Page 417] integration and prospects for further steps this direction; and sound out his personal plans for promoting United States of Europe.
- Drafted by Palmer and Boochever, cleared with Frank and Merchant, and repeated to London, Bonn, Rome, The Hague, Brussels, and Luxembourg.↩