320/4–253: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the United States Mission at the United Nations1
secret
Washington, April 2, 1953—6:58
p.m.
Gadel 131. Re Korea.
- 1.
- Department recognizes that Menon and perhaps other dels are encouraged by Chou En-lai statement March 30 and may wish to discuss Korea and propose GA action. We recognize also that US must avoid posture which might be interpreted as evidence US does not in fact desire armistice. Nevertheless Department continues to believe as stated Gadel 129,2 GA consideration of detailed Korean proposals highly undesirable since GA cannot substitute itself for Panmunjom negotiations. Even if Menon cannot be dissuaded from making speech, hope most delegations can be persuaded that GA action of extended discussion premature.
- 2.
- In discussions with other delegations, and if you deem necessary
in statement Committee, I suggest you take following line:
- a)
- USG, as always eager to see peace in Korea on honorable basis. American people share hope that recent Commie statements, particularly Chou En-lai statement of March 30, offer hope that honorable peace in Korea can be achieved. Chou En-lai statement is in general terms. If ChiComs mean business they will presumably follow up statement with specific and detailed proposal, at Panmunjom.
- b)
- ChiComs have indicated that exchange sick and wounded should lead to settlement entire PW question. General Clark similarly stated that UNC prepared to consider overall PW question as second order of business following disposition sick and wounded. Liaison officers meeting for first time on question sick and wounded April 6. In circumstances [Page 838] we believe it highly undesirable for GA to involve itself in delicate negotiations with any resolution or extended discussion. If as US hopes, Commies not prepared to negotiate in good faith armistice should result in near future.
- 3.
- If despite US Delegation efforts, overwhelming pressure builds up for some kind of resolution, GADel might accept simple resolution which would (a) note latest correspondence between UNC and Communists; (b) express satisfaction with steps being taken for prompt exchange sick and wounded in accordance Geneva Convention, and express the hope that such exchange will be promptly effected; (c) express hope that these developments will lead to early armistice consistent with UN objectives and reaffirm decision in resolution 507 (VI) for SYG to convene special GA session after armistice conclusion. Such resolution may also prove necessary to meet possible superficially appealing Soviet initiative. Such action could be taken under Polish item without reopening Korean item.
- 4.
- Department would like GADel appraisal of situation and views soonest.
Dulles