Foreign Relations of the United States, 1969–1976, Volume XXIX, Eastern Europe; Eastern Mediterranean, 1969–1972

357. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassies in Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey¹

Washington, September 24, 1970, 0109Z.

156982. Subject: Cyprus: Greek and Turkish Influence in Intercommunal Talks. Ref: Nicosia 1671² and previous.

1. We note as described reftel and related messages from Athens and Ankara that phase 4 which envisioned package deal proposals for solution appears have little steam behind it and little chance of proving more successful than previous stages in talks. Principal reason obviously is unwillingness of either Greek Cypriots or Turk Cypriots to make compromises required if solution is to be found. Both not only appear believe time is on their respective sides but to prefer situation as it exists today rather than compromise their positions.

2. Athens and Ankara appear resigned to acceptance status quo for time being. Therefore although we appreciate analysis and recommendations contained Nicosiaʼs 1671 we do not feel this would be appropriate time to use US leverage to bring about Caglayangil/Palamas meeting or to push for vigorous Greek/Turkish action, as we believe forcing a meeting at this time would not be beneficial. To contrary, our reaction is that GOG and GOT fully aware of dangers inherent in situation and remain committed to preventing deterioration. We would hope that with negotiations at this low point, however, all parties concerned will do some hard thinking without our intervention with possibility subsequent GOG/GOT discussions as they feel advisable.

3. On other hand, addressees should continue encourage concerned parties toward compromise and maintenance of positive attitude re continuation intercommunal negotiations.³

Rogers

1. Source: National Archives, RG 59, Central Files 1970–73, POL 27 CYP. Secret. Drafted by Davis on September 23; cleared by Cash and Vigderman and in substance by Feldman (IO/UNP); and approved by Davies. Repeated to USNATO, EUCOM, USDOCOSOUTH, London, and USUN.
2. Dated September 22, it reported that an “atmosphere of bleak pessimism” infected both the ethnic communities and the Embassies of Greece and Turkey on Cyprus and urged efforts to get the two “mother” states to promote movement toward a solution. (Ibid.) In telegram 5279 from Athens, September 23, Tasca endorsed these views. (Ibid.)
3. In telegram 1699 from Nicosia, September 26, Popper suggested that one means available to the United States to forward its objectives was arranging a Nixon–Makarios meeting at which the President would urge movement toward a settlement. (Ibid.)