Foreign Relations of the United States, 1969–1976, Volume E–7, Documents on South Asia, 1969–1972

71. Backchannel Message From the President’s Assistant for National Security Affairs (Kissinger) to the Ambassador to India (Keating)¹ ²

Washington, July 19, 1970, 2:18 p.m.

Reference [text not declassified] the President is very grateful for your assessment contained in reference b and earlier messages.

Concerning Pakistan arms issue, as you know, the President has decided to make a one-time exception on this issue and we are now considering timing and modalities for proceeding. I understand your views have been sought by State 112500 of July 14.

The President has just dispatched letter to you outlining reasons for this action. Timing for Congressional consultations and notifications will depend upon number of factors. President has, however, asked me to bring to your attention that recognition of Hanoi by Indian Government will unquestionably result in Congressional furor here which could further conlplicate U.S. relations with India. The imminence of recognition will, of course, also be considered in assessing the timing on Pakistan arms package.

Again, thank you for your prompt and helpful responses. I too shall consider this channel closed barring no notable significant new developments.

Best regards.

1. Source: National Archives, Nixon Presidential Materials, NSC Files, Box 725, Country Files, Europe, USSR–Firyubin–Keating, Jul 70. Top Secret; Sensitive. Initialed by Haig for Kissinger. The message is undated, but an attached note indicates that it was sent on the date and at the time given. Telegram 112500 to New Delhi is ibid., RG 59, Central Files 1970–73, DEF 12–5 PAK.
2. Kissinger confirmed the information concerning arms for Pakistan that was sent to Keating in a letter from President Nixon on July 17. He added that India’s pending decision on recognition of North Vietnam would “be considered in assessing the timing on Pakistan arms package.”