Foreign Relations of the United States, 1958–1960, South and Southeast Asia, Volume XV

161. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Afghanistan¹

Washington, March 16, 1960—6:10 p.m.

692. Pakistan Ambassador called on Lewis Jones March 14 to express concern trend Pak-Afghan relations.² Mentioned recent articles appearing in U.S. press which seem favor Afghan and Soviet line on Pushtunistan particularly question plebiscite.

Jones reviewed recent U.S. efforts to improve Pak-Afghan relations mentioning disappointing results Naim visit Rawalpindi and responses our proposal for 90-day propaganda truce. Stated it difficult see what further U.S. can now do to abate dispute.

Ambassador said his government at loss what steps could be taken to win over Afghans. Reviewed Pakistan efforts over past twelve years improve relations with Afghans through conciliation and economic concessions. Mentioned previous conversation with Jones in which latter had expressed our concern over recent Pakistan propaganda. Stated GOP appreciated our views but had reluctantly concluded could no longer permit Afghanistan propaganda remain unchallenged.

Ambassador then expressed great concern over recent Soviet support Afghanistan on Pushtunistan, particularly implications territorial claims against Pakistan. Suggested some statement of support for Pakistan from U.S. and other allies now called for. Mentioned specifically possibility raising this issue next SEATO council session with view obtaining forthright statement support for Pakistan. Recalled SEATO already on record recognizing Durand line as legal border Pakistan.³

Jones questioned usefulness further SEATO consideration this problem. Cautioned Ambassador against exacerbating what is essentially Pak-Afghan issue by projecting it into cold war controversy. Ambassador said he merely exploring possibilities but could not help contrast forthright support of Afghanistan by USSR with U.S. hesitancy support its ally, Pakistan.

For Ambassador Rountree and Byroade.

Department has been weighing what further U.S. initiative might be fruitful to ease Pak-Afghan tensions. Seems that neither country now in receptive mood for further U.S. overtures. Your comments appreciated as to effect complete cessation for time being further U.S. initiatives making clear to both parties that U.S. still prepared be helpful but only if they seek our advice or help. If you believe further U.S. action could be fruitful at this time, would appreciate your recommendations.⁴

Herter

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 689.90D/3–1660. Confidential. Drafted by Poullada and approved by G. Lewis Jones. Also sent to Karachi and repeated to Ankara, Tehran, and London.
2. A memorandum of this conversation, drafted by Poullada, is ibid., 689.90D/3–1460.
3. On March 8, 1956, the SEATO Council issued a communiqué which stated that the SEATO member countries recognized the Durand Line as the international boundary between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
4. In telegram 2210, March 19, Rountree agreed that it would be best to refrain from taking any further initiative. (Department of State, Central Files, 689.90D/3–1960)