123. Telegram From the Embassy in Iran to the Department of State1
1617. Baghdad Pact—From Chief USDel.2 During discussions Counter-subversion Committee report and after I offered permanent observer Counter-subversion Permanent Working Committee Turkish Delegation suggested it would strengthen general Pact counter-subversion effort if the United States were a full member (as opposed to observer) of that Committee along lines which I had just announced re Economic Committee (Deptel 1866 of April 16).3 His suggestion was immediately seconded all delegations.
I said that I was authorized only offer observer. I stated I understood membership was precluded by the by-laws which limit membership to “high contracting parties”; Turk said if by-laws prevented US membership the Ministerial Council was competent to change by-laws and that this should be done forthwith. In this he was immediately seconded by heads all delegations.
I stated that I was authorized only to offer permanent observer who would participate fully. I continued that whether or not by-laws were changed this was as far as I could go. Chairman requested and I agreed refer question our membership Counter-subversion Committee to Washington for decision.
[Page 286]Delegations agreed set-up subcommittee to meet this afternoon with view drafting amendment to by-laws which would permit US membership. Committee report will be considered before end current Tehran meeting.
Comment: Since objective of Counter-subversion Committee is integral part US foreign policy, and since, with limitations set forth Deptel 1866, we have become members Economic Committee, I believe it will be in US interest to accept membership on Counter-subversion Committee. Entire US representation here concurs.
I request favorable instructions prior 9 am Tehran time April 19.4