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Pakistan: President Yahya Khan (out late 71)
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DOCUMENT WITHDRAWAL RECORD [NIXON PROJECT]
DOCUMENT
DOCUMENT
NUMBER
TYPE
SUBJECT/TITLE OR CORRESPONDENTS
DATE
RESTRICTION
2
message
Health to Yahya Khan
DOC#
4/9/71
B
11685
MANDATORY REVIEW REQUEST: NLN 10-13
DECLASSIFIED Per Ltr 8/21/2014
MANDATORY REVIEW REQUEST: NLN 13-74
4
letter
Yahya Khan to the President
DOC #
MANDATORY REVIEW REQUEST: NLN 10-13
6/28/71
B
11686
MANDATORY REVIEW REQUEST: NLN 13.74
DECLASSIFIED Per Ltr 8/21/2014
7
message
Yahya Khan to the President
DOC #
MANDATORY REVIEW REQUEST: NLN 10-13
n.d.
B
11687
MANDATORY REVIEW REQUEST: NLN 13.74
DECLASSIFIED Per Gr. 8/21/2014
q
letter
Yahya Khan to the President
DOCK
12/2/11
B
MANDATORY REVIEW REQUEST: NLN 10-13
11688
MANDATORY REVIEW REQUEST: NLN 13-74
DECLASSIFIED Per Ltr. 8/21/2011
to
letter
Farooqi to Saunders
w/attach.
11/23/71
8
MANDATORY REVIEW REQUEST: NLN 10-13
DOC#
MANDATORY REVIEW REQUEST: NLN 13-74
11689
DECLASSIFIED Per Ctr. 8/21/2014
FILE GROUP TITLE
BOX NUMBER
NSC
759
FOLDER TITLE
10
RESTRICTION CODES
A. Release would violate a Federal statute or Agency Policy.
E. Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
B. National security classified information.
financial information.
C. Pending or approved claim that release would violate an individual's
F. Release would disclose investigatory information compiled for law
rights.
enforcement purposes.
D. Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of privacy
G. Withdrawn and return private and personal material.
or a libel of a living person.
H. Withdrawn and returned non-historical material.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential I ibrary
NATIONAL ARCHIVES AND RECORDS ADMINISTRATION
DECLASSIFIEDo; 1989-235-084/00024
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
NA 14021 (4-85)
TAB
SUBJECT
DATE
* Insert
Ltr from Yahya Khan
23 Nov 71
1.
Ltr to Yahya Khan
22 Nov 71
w/reply
26 Nov 71
w/reply
2 Dec 71
2.
Ltr to the President
6 & 9 Oct 71
(gratitude and sympathetic
understanfing of the situation (33804)
3.
Ltr to the President
26 Sep 71
(Indo & Pakistan)
4.
Ltr to the President
19 Aug 71
(31968)
5.
Ltr to Yahya (31554)
14 Aug 71
6.
Ltr to the President
18 & 28 Jun 71
w/reply (30026
7.
Ltr to the President
17 Apr 71
(28351)
w/reply (28895)
24 May 71
w/reply (ltr to Yahya E
25 May 71
Gandhi)
8.
Ltr to the President
31 Mar 71
w/reply (27207)
7 May 71
9.
Ltr to the President
23 Feb 71
10.
Ltr to the President
8 Feb 71
(25896)
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
01
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
13
VIETNAM MILITARY SITUATION
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
9
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
SECRET
25896
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
February 17, 1971
Dear Mr. President:
Thank you for your message informing me of the
situation resulting from the hijacking of an Indian
commercial aircraft to Pakistan on January 30. I
have also carefully considered your suggestion that
our government use its good offices with the Govern-
ment of India for the purpose of preventing further
deterioration of the situation and seeking to restore
it to normalcy. These developments are of great
concern to me, and I can assure you that I want very
much to see this problem resolved and the resultant
tension between Pakistan and India reduced.
First, I would emphasize our strong opposition to
aircraft hijacking in any form and our desire to curb
it through all practical means. I note with satisfaction
that your government also deplores the action of the
hijackers in this case.
With respect to the use of good offices, we have been
discussing this case with the Government of India as
we have with representatives of your government. We
firmly believe that airline safety requires that all
countries of the international community cooperate to
strengthen international law and multilateral procedures
for deterring aircraft hijacking, a problem which can be
effectively dealt with only through a universal international
approach. We have put this position to the Government
of India, and have advised it as well as your government
of the importance of acting in accordance with established
international procedures regarding airline safety in seeking
SECRETI
Disptain 0/17/71 ma s/s
icpt Reproduced at the DECLASSIFIED Richard Nixon Presidential Davis Saundho
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 2 -
solutions to various aspects of this problem. We feel
that a multilateral approach offers the best means of
moving toward such solutions.
Specifically, I would encourage your government to
avail itself of the good offices procedures recently
adopted by the International Civil Aviation Organization.
We have already urged the Government of India to adopt
this approach and we believe it would provide a practicable
means of resolving these difficulties. Our government
stands ready to cooperate in appropriate ways with the
Government of Pakistan and the Government of India, and
with other nations, in addressing this problem through
such a multilateral procedure in the hope of overcoming
this point of tension in the Subcontinent.
With warm personal regards,
Sincerely,
Richal Hit
His Excellency
General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan
President of Pakistan
Islamabad
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ACTION
25801/25896
SECRET
February 15, 1971
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
Henry A. Kissinger
K
SUBJECT: Message From President Yahya Khan
President Yahya has sent you a message explaining his view of the
sudden deterioration of relations between India and Pakistan resulting
from the recent hijacking and destruction in Lahore of an Indian com-
mercial aircraft (Tab B). He has specifically asked that the U.S. use
its good offices with the Government of India to bring the situation back
to normal. Similar messages were sent to Prime Minister Heath and
Chairman Kosygin.
Background
The hijacking incident reflects the atmosphere of suspicion and hostil-
ity that persists between India and Pakistan. There has been a sharp
rise in tension since January 30 when two Kashmiris hijacked an Indian
internal flight across the border to Lahore. The passengers were re-
turned to India, but the plane was blown up. The Indian government,
in part reflecting the pressures of an electorial campaign in progress
there, has taken a hard line. The Pakistanis also share some of the
blame, especially because of their relaxed attitude toward the hijackers
and their initial willingness to see local politicians exploit the incident.
The Indians have accused the Pakistanis of complicity in the hijacking
and destruction of the aircraft, which the Pakistanis have denied. The
Indians first demanded extradition of the two hijackers, but the Pakistan-
is refused on the grounds that as Kashmiris they are not Indian citizens
and then went on to offer them asylum. When the aircraft was destroyed,
India demanded full compensation and, when this was not forthcoming, in
retaliation banned all Pakistani overflights of India territory thereby
making transportation between the two wings of Pakistan much more diffi-
cult.
The hijacking affair also has important internal implications in both
countries which limit the ability of both governments to smooth it over.
In Pakistan, it has further strained the fragil unity between east and west
since the East Pakistanis care little of the government's attitude and
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
SECRET
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
SECRET
- 2 -
actions. In India, some of Mrs. Gandhi's strongest opponents are
hardliners on Pakistan, and her government -- if it survives -- is
not expected to take any significant move to lessen tensions until at
least after the elections in early March.
Thus the affair stands on dead center and is likely to remain there
for some time. State's estimate is that Pakistan will not extradite
the hijackers and is unlikely to prosecute them because public opinion,
especially in West Pakistan, is so strongly sympathetic towards them.
Pakistan has also shown no indication to consider compensation when
it is directly linked to overflights. India is equally adamant over these
issues.
U.S. Policy
In keeping with our worldwide policy on hijacking, State is trying to keep
this affair focussed on the central issues of deterrence of hijacking and
protection of international air safety. They are also reluctant to become
directly involved between India and Pakistan on this issue given its
contentious political overtones and the near impossibility of reconciling
their views at this point.
So far the extent of our actions has been to remind the Pakistanis of our
strong disapproval of hijacking and to point out the importance of their
acting in accordance with the provisions of the international convention
regarding the prosecution of aircraft hijackers. In response to initial
Indian approaches we have urged them to take advantage of ICAO pro-
cedures for dealing with hijacking and to use them instead of resorting
to unilateral action. Specifically, we have called India's attention to the
good offices procedures of the ICAO and suggested they could be useful
in breaking the current impasse.
This also provides the key to responding to President Yahya's message.
Rather than putting ourselves in the middle or chiding Pakistan too
sharply for not prosecuting the hijackers, State has suggested that you
respond to President Yahya urging recourse to the ICAO. The letter is
cast in broad enough terms not to be offensive.
Recommendation: That you sign the letter at Tab A to be cabled to
President Yahya. [Mr. Price concurs in the text. ]
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
Tab B
MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT YAHYA KHAN OF PAKISTAN TO PRESIDENT NIXON
The following is the text of a message from President Yahya Khan of
Pakistan to President Nixon conveyed by Pakistan Ambassador Hilaly to
Secretary Rogers in a letter dated February 8, 1971:
Your Excellency,
I must tell you of my serious concern over the turn of
events which has resulted in a rapid escalation of tension in
the Indo-Pakistan sub-continent. This has been brought about
by what appears to us to be India's deliberate over reaction to
an incident for which Pakistan could not be held responsible.
Two young men from Indian occupied Kashmir hijacked an
Indian plane flying from Srinagar to Jammu on 30th January and
landed at Lahore. My Government took prompt steps to fulfil its
obligations under international conventions and arranged repatria-
tion of passengers and crew of the hijacked plane to India at the
earliest opportunity. We also employed every means to have the
plane released from the hijackers. Despite our sustained efforts,
this object could not be achieved and the hijackers destroyed the
plane on 2nd February.
Although the hijacking was the result of repressive measures
adopted by the Government of India in occupied Kashmir, my Govern-
ment deplored the action of the hijackers.
Instead of appreciating our helpful attitude, the Government
of India for its own reasons used the incident to intensify tension
between the two countries. Highly provocative statements have been
made by responsible Indian leaders, including the Prime Minister,
blaming Pakistan for the incident and threatening retaliatory action.
The Indian authorities have also been allowing massive and violent
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 2 -
demonstrations against the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi
which has resulted in damage to property and injuries to personnel
of the High Commission.
On 4th February the Indian Government took the extraordinary
step of banning flights of all Pakistani aircraft over Indian
territory. By taking this arbitrary measure of stopping direct
flights between the two wings of Pakistan, India has committed
a serious breach of its international and bilateral commi tments
which has resulted in hightening tensions. A situation has thus
been created that could lead to developments which we in Pakistan
very much wish to avoid.
Considering the degree of interest which your Government
has taken in preservation of peace and tranquility in the sub-
continent, I felt you would be interested in using your good
offices with the Government of India for preventing a further
deterioration of the situation and for bringing it back to
normal. I and my Government would highly appreciate any effort
that Your Excellency might make in this direction.
With kind regards.
Agha Mohammad Yahya Khan.
His Excellency
Richard M. Nixon,
President of the United States,
Washington, D.C.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
THE WHITE Hol
WASHINGTON
-;----F-
22 February
Nancy--
Can you confirm that
this was in fact received
& signed off on by the
President?
Dave
Dave
The Pres signed
this LZR + was sent
to nsc/s for dispata
been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined 17 to
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
-
MEMORANDUM
sent 20
Preg 2-15
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ACTION
25801/25896
SECRET
February 12, 1971
MEMORANDUM FOR DR. KISSINGER
FROM: Harold H. Saunders Hol
SUBJECT: Message From President Yahya
As you know, President Yahya has sent a message to the
President asking us to use our good offices with India con-
cerning the dispute arising from the recent hijacking and
destruction of an Indian commercial aircraft in Lahore.
State has now suggested a response that would hopefully steer
Yahya toward using the good offices of the ICAO, which is con-
sistant both with our general approach to the hijacking problem and
our posture of keeping out of Indo-Pakistani desputes.
Recommendation: That you obtain as soon as possible the
President's approval for this approach as reflected in the
attached memo. Yahya sent similar appeals to both
Prime Minister Heath and Premier Kosygin, and it would be
nice to get to Yahya before the Soviets do.
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
25896
OF state
Washington, D.C. 20520
7102078
February 11, 1971
CONFIDENTIAL
MEMORANDUM FOR MR. HENRY A. KISSINGER
THE WHITE HOUSE
Subject: Proposed Reply to Message from
President Yahya to President Nixon
on Indian Aircraft Hijacking Problem
In a memorandum of February 8 I forwarded a message from
President Yahya Khan of Pakistan to President Nixon concerning the
deterioration in relations between Pakistan and India resulting from
the hijacking on January 30 of an Indian commercial aircraft to Lahore,
West Pakistan, and its subsequent destruction by the hijackers.
President Yahya suggested we use our good offices with the Government
of India to bring the situation back to normal.
The Indians have accused the Pakistanis of complicity in the
hijacking and destruction of the aircraft, while the Pakistanis have
denied any responsibility for either. The Indians first demanded
extradition of the two hijackers which the Pakistanis refused on
grounds that, as Kashmiris, they are not citizens of India; instead,
the Pakistanis offered them asylum which further irritated the Indians.
When the aircraft was destroyed, India demanded compensation for the
loss of the plane and its cargo, and banned all Pakistani civil and
military overflights of its territory to back up its demands. This
step has caused Pakistan serious inconvenience in air communication
between East and West Pakistan, but Pakistan has not retaliated against
Indian overflights. There have been public demonstrations in each
country against the diplomatic mission of the other. The matter has
become a serious domestic political issue in both countries, and
Indo-Pakistan tensions have risen to their highest point since 1965.
CONFIDENTIAL
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
CONFIDENTIAL
- 2 -
The affair now stands on dead center. Our estimate is that
Pakistan will not extradite the hijackers and is unlikely to prosecute
them because public opinion, especially in West Pakistan, is so strongly
sympathetic toward them. Pakistan has also shown no inclination to
consider compensation when it is linked directly with overflights,
although it has told us it would be willing to discuss the subject
through normal diplomatic channels.
India is equally adamant on its side over these issues. It has
informed the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) of its
position without requesting any action, although it is aware of the
possibility of proposing collective measures against Pakistan under
an existing ICAO Council resolution. Pakistan on February 9 made a
formal complaint to the ICAO Council against the Indian ban on over-
flights by Pakistani civil aircraft.
Pakistan approached the British and the Soviets as well as our-
selves on February 8 suggesting the utility of good offices. The
British reportedly are offering to provide good offices if both India
and Pakistan agree. We do not believe India would be amenable to an
offer of U.S. good offices at this time.
In keeping with our general worldwide policy on hijacking, we
desire to keep this affair focussed on the central issues of deterrence
of hijacking and protection of international air safety. We are also
reluctant to become involved directly in this problem, particularly in
view of its contentious political overtones and the difficulty we have
in seeing how we could reconcile such divergent views. We have, however,
reminded the Pakistanis of our strong disapproval of hijacking and
pointed out the importance of their acting in accordance with the pro-
visions of the international convention regarding prosecution of air-
craft hijackers. In response to initial Indian approaches, we urged
the Indians to take advantage of ICAO procedures for dealing with
hijacking and to utilize them instead of resorting to unilateral action.
Specifically, we have called their attention to the good offices pro-
cedures of the ICAO and suggested they could be useful in resolving
the current impasse.
President Yahya's message affords us a ready opportunity also to
steer the Pakistanis toward this multinational approach which we consider
CONFIDENTIAL
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
CONFIDENTIAL
- 3 -
the most appropriate vehicle for addressing such issues as prosecution,
compensation and overflights. A proposed reply from the President to
President Yahya's message, reflecting the foregoing approach, is
enclosed for your consideration. We recommend that the reply be
sent by cable to our Embassy in Islamabad for delivery to President
Yahya.
Theodoreh Eliothe
Theodore L. Eliot, Jr.
Executive Secretary
Enclosure:
Suggested reply.
CONFIDENTIAL
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
SUGGESTED REPLY
CONFIDENTIAL
Dear Mr. President:
I deeply appreciate your message conveyed through Ambassador
Hilaly on February 8 informing me of the situation resulting from
the hijacking of an Indian commercial aircraft to Pakistan on
January 30. I have also carefully considered your suggestion that
my government use its good offices with the Government of India for
the purpose of preventing further deterioration of the situation
and seeking to restore it to normalcy. I, too, am seriously con-
cerned over these developments and can assure you that my government
is sincerely interested in seeing this problem resolved and the
resultant tension between Pakistan and India reduced.
First I would like to emphasize my government's strong opposition
to aircraft hijacking in any form and our desire to curb it through
all practical means. I note with satisfaction that your government
also deplores the action of the hijackers in this case.
His Excellency
General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan,
President of Pakistan.
CONFIDENTIAL
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
CONFIDENTIAL
- 2 -
With respect to the use of good offices, I want you to know that
we have been discussing this case with the Government of India as we
have with representatives of your government. We firmly believe that
airline safety requires that all countries of the international com-
munity cooperate to strengthen international law and multilateral
procedures for deterring aircraft hijacking, a problem which can be
effectively dealt with only through a universal international approach.
We have put this position to the Government of India, and have advised
it as well as your government of the importance of acting in accordance
with established international procedures regarding airline safety in
seeking solutions to various aspects of this problem. We feel that
a multilateral approach offers the best means of moving toward such
solutions.
Specifically, I would encourage your government to avail itself
of the good offices procedures recently adopted by the International
Civil Aviation Organization. We have already urged the Government of
India to adopt this approach and we believe it would provide a practicable
means of resolving these difficulties. My government stands ready to
CONFIDENTIAL
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
CONFIDENTIAL
- 3 -
cooperate in appropriate ways with the Government of Pakistan and the
Government of India, and with other nations, in addressing this problem
through such a multilateral procedure in the hope of overcoming this
point of tension in the Subcontinent.
With warm regards,
Richard Nixon
CONFIDENTIAL
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
25801
department OF state
Washington, D.C. 20520
7101910
February 8, 1971
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
MEMORANDUM FOR MR. HENRY A. KISSINGER
THE WHITE HOUSE
Subject: Message from Pakistan President Yahya
to President Nixon on Indian Aircraft
Hijacking Problem
The Secretary has received the enclosed message from President
Yahya Khan to President Nixon concerning problems stemming from the
recent hijacking of an Indian commercial aircraft from Kashmir to
Lahore, West Pakistan, and suggesting the use of our good offices
with the Government of India in an effort to bring the situation
back to normal. Ambassador Hilaly followed the letter with a call
on Assistant Secretary Sisco today.
The Department is considering the matter urgently and will
propose an appropriate reply as soon as possible.
mind Hundred
for
Theodore L. Eliot, Jr.
Executive Secretary
Enclosure:
Message from
President Yahya.
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
NUMBER
MO
DA
HR
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL CORRESPON. NCE ROUTING AND CONTROL PROFILE
25896
02
12
or
TO: PRES
FROM: ELIOT
X
CLASSIF:
U
EXDIS
HAK
x
ROGERS
C
X
NODIS
LAIRD
DOCUMENT SOURCE/CLASS/DESCRIPTION
LOU
EYES ONLY
S
RES DATA
DOC DATE: 02/11/71
TS
CODEWORD
SENSITIVE
PARIS MTG
NO FORN
SUBJECT:
Proposed may from Pres nifon to Pres
S/S
Yahya on Indian ameraft hyaching
ENCLOSURES:
7102028
(
) NOT XEROXED FOR SUSPENSE FILE
INTERNAL ROUTING AND DISTRIBUTION
ACTION REQUIRED
NAME: Saunders
MEMO FOR hak
(
)
ACTiON
INFO
RCD CY
MEMO TO PRESIDENT
(
)
ADVANCE CYS TO HAK/HAIG
FOR:
REPLY FOR HAK SIGNATURE
(
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STAFF SECRETARY
REPLY FOR PRES SIGNATURE
(
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SECRETARIAT DISTRIBUTION/ACTION
DIR, SECRETARIAT
MEMO
TO
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RECOMMENDATIONS
(
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NR EAST/NORTH AFRICA
JOINT MEMO
(
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EUROPE/CANADA
APPROPRIATE ACTION
(
x
)
LATIN AMERICA
ANY ACTION NECESSARY
(
)
UNITED NATIONS
CONCURRENCE
(
)
ECONOMIC
DUE DATE:
02/16/21
SCIENTIFIC
PLANNING GROUP
COMMENTS: (Including Special Instructions)
PROGRAM ANALYSIS
DATE
FROM
TO
ACTION REQUIRED
2/12/71
Saunders
Secretariat
Joined By 25801
02/12
HAVE
Pies for Decision
INTERNAL ROUTING
2/14
Pres
Sgn the to Yahya
2/17
Pres sgol th to Yakya
MICROFILM DATA
NOTIFY: DISPATCH: LETTER/MEMO Yashya
DO.
INIT
NSC
STAFF APPROVAL
3008
DATE
DISPOSITION
PAF
HAK APPL
2/19
WHC
HAK MARGINALIA
SUBF
NS3 FORM required
NSC
COPIES: (AS MARKED above)
TO J. PAF.
WHC
SUBF
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
* GPO: 1970-385-803
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
PRESIDENT'S HOUSE,
From: General
RAWALPINDI.
Agha Mohammad Yahya Khan,
H.Pk, H.J.
23 February, 1971.
Dear Mr. President,
I am grateful for your message received through
your Embassy in Islamabad today expressing your great
concern over developments following the hijacking of
an Indian aircraft to Pakistan.
2.
I fully share your view that all countries of
the international community should cooperate in effectively
dealing with the question of hijacking. The incident at
Lahore was not of our seeking and my Government deplored
the blowing up of the plane. What we do not understand
is the arbitrary and unilateral banning of overflights
of our aircraft in peace time, in breach of established
international conventions and specific bilateral agreements.
3.
I appreciate your useful suggestion that we may
have recourse to multilateral procedures by seeking the
good offices of the International Civil Aviation Organization
in resolving this problem. Pakistan has already approached
the ICAO in this matter and we shall be glad to avail of
their good offices. It is our earnest hope that India
will also extend its cooperation to this Organization so
that normal conditions can be restored without further delay.
PTO
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
NSC 27207
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 7, 1971
SECRET/NODIS
MEMORANDUM FOR
THE ACTING SECRETARY OF STATE
SUBJECT:
Letter to President Yahya
In response to the suggestion in the Acting Secretary of State's
memorandum of April 27 that the President review the substance
of the paper prepared on Pakistan for the Senior Review Group, the
President has reviewed the options and approved the attached letter
to President Yahya.
As a result of this review, he has decided that our posture should
be one of making a serious effort to help President Yahya bring an
end to civil strife and achieve a peaceful settlement of the political
problems which triggered it. While adjustments in some of our
programs will be necessitated by the situation, these will be for
development reasons only and not as a facade for application of
political pressure. He recognizes that the only long-term prospect
of restoring normal life in East Pakistan may be under conditions
of greater East Pakistani autonomy, but he would prefer to see
West Pakistanis reach that conclusion, if it is valid, for themselves.
The U.S. position for now, therefore, will be to give President
Yahya time to follow through his efforts to work out his own arrange-
ments transitional to greater East Pakistani cooperation or autonomy.
The President also requested that the foregoing guidance be passed
by the Department of State to Ambassador Farland in a restricted
channel.
fn
I enry A. Kissinger
cc: The Secretary of Defense
The Director of Central Intelligence
The Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff
SECRET/NODIS
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
Dispatched (Irwin) 5/7/71 w/ DECLASSIFIED CDT - DOD, CIA, JCS rcpt2446, 2447, 2448
CyThtododument has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 7, 1971
Dear Mr. President:
I have given most serious thought to your message on
the tragic situation which has developed in East Pakistan
in the past few weeks. This situation has been of great
concern to me.
Having labored so hard to carry out free national elections
and to achieve an early and orderly transition, you must
also be deeply disappointed not to have been able to trans-
fer power to a civilian government according to the plan
you had adopted and which you explained to me during
your visit here last fall.
First, I should like to emphasize the sympathy which we
in the United States feel for all the people of Pakistan
who have been affected by these events and our concern
over the loss of life and human suffering. I understand
the anguish you must have felt in making the difficult de-
cisions you have faced.
We also share your distress over the economic losses
which have occurred and the serious resulting problems
with which your Government has been faced. As you know,
some of the Americans who were affected by the cessation
of economic activity have had to leave East Pakistan be-
cause they were no longer able to perform their usual
work. Because of the uncertainties, some of our programs
are in abeyance.
We look forward to an early renewal of your national
developm ent effort and of normal econ mic activity
throughout Pakistan. We especially hope for the restora-
tion of internal communications in East Pakistan to fore-
stall food shortages, and we are prepared to support
international humanitarian relief there.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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-2-
As you are probably aware, some opposition has been
expressed among our public and in our Congress to con-
tinuing economic and military assistance to Pakistan
under pres ent circumstances. This wa due largely to
the circumstances of civil strife which will hopefully
continue to subside. Further, it is to no one's advantage
to permit the situation in East Pakistan to lead to an
internationalization of the situation. Foreign involvement
could create new problems and compound the difficulty of
securing an ultimate settlement. We have been in touch
with the Government of India and have discussed the im-
plications of the present situation. We have stressed the
need for restraint.
Please let me know if there are any ways in which you
believe that we can be helpful to the achievement of a
satisfactory settlement. I would hope Ambassador
Farland may have an early opportunity to discuss these
matters with you and your colleagues.
With warm personal regards,
Sincerely,
Publ mt
His Excellency
General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan
President of Pakistan
Rawalpindi
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ACTION
27207
SECRET
May 1, 1971
THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN
MEMORANDUM FOR:
THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
Brigadier General Alexander M. Haig, Jr.
SUBJECT:
Reply to President Yahya
Now that you have decided on our general posture towards Pakistan,
you should reply to President Yahya's letter to you (Tab B). We
have delayed recommending a response until our policy review was
complete and the situation clearer.
Yahya's letter explained political developments since December in
terms of how the "progressively rigid stand" of East Pakistani
political leaders made it impossible to agree on procedures for framing
a constitution. This rigidity, he said, was backed up by a widespread
campaign of defiance for governmental authority. His negotiations
with them ended when they made clear that they were bent on separa-
tion. He was concerned over the threat of Indian military intervention,
and he asked that the US urge India to refrain from any action that
might aggravate the situation.
The response for your signature (Tab A)
--
begins by stating your sympathy for the frustration of
President Yahya's political plans and for the suffering of all those
affected by recent events;
--
shares Yahya's concern for the economic setbacks
caused, noting that events have put some of our programs in abeyance
but expressing hope that they might resume as soon as the conditions
disrupting them have been resolved;
--
expresses hope that food distribution can soon resume
in East Pakistan and affirms our willingness to support any inter-
national relief effort;
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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SECRET
-2-
:
notes some efforts in our Congress to urge suspension
of assistance.
--
concludes by advising that we have urged India to
show restraint.
This is basically the text recommended by Acting Secretary Irwin,
which I have toned down to eliminate any inference of pressure from
you. The text has been cleared with Mr. Price.
You may be interested in how other world leaders have responded to
similar letters from Yahya. President Podgorny replied in a critical
vein and seemed to come down on the side of the Bengalis and there
reportedly has been a similar follow-up from Kosygin. Chou en-Lai
took the opposite tact. Prime Minister Heath replied (Tab C) in
fairly direct terms expressing his sympathy for Yahya's "terrible
dilemma" but stressing that there "must be" an end to the "bloodshed
and use of force" as soon as possible, as well as a resumption of
political discussions with the Awami League leaders. He also urged
Yahya to give "some public assurance" of the safety of Awami League
leader, Mujibur Rahman.
With this letter, I would recommend that the following paragraph be
sent to Ambassador Farland through the Secretary's special direct
channel (Roger Channel, so that he will know your thinking when he
sees Yahya:
"As a result of our recent policy review, it has been decided
that our posture should be one of making a serious effort to
help President Yahya bring an end fo civil strife and achieve
a peaceful settlement of the political problems which triggered
it. While adjustments in some of our programs will be
necessitated by the situation, these will be for development
and domestic political reasons only and not as a facade for
application of political pressure. We recognize that the only
long-term prospect of restoring normal life in East Pakistan
may be under conditions of greater East Pakistani autonomy,
but we would prefer to see West Pakistanis reach that conclusion,
if it is valid, for themselves. Our position for now, therefore,
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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SECRET
-3- - -
will be to give President Yahya time to follow through his
efforts to work out his own arrangements transitional to
greater East Pakistani cooperation or autonomy. 11
RECOMMENDATION: That you sign the letter at Tab A and approve
the above as direct (Roger Channel) general guidance for Ambassador
Farland.
Approve The President Disapprove
afflues this action
Attachments
A
May 7,1971 7,1971
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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8
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ACTION
27207
SECRET/NODIS
May 7, 1971
MEMORANDUM FOR GENERAL HAIG
FROM:
Harold H. Saunders Has
SUBJECT: Letter to President Yahya
Would you please sign the attached transmittal of the letter
to Yahya to the State Department? At this point we very much
need to put some written guidance in their hands. I would
like to get this out today if we possibly can.
at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
SECRET
Letter to You from President of Pakistan
March 31, 1971
Your Excellency.
I am taking earliest opportunity to inform you of the political
developments which have taken place in Pakistan since general elections
were held last December. It has been my constant endeavour to lead
the country towards a restoration of democratic processes through
elected representatives of the people. For this purpose, I have been
holding talks with leaders of political parties. I had hoped that these
discussions would lead to a broad political agreement regarding con-
vening of the National Assembly and framing of a constitution.
Unfortunately however the political leadership in East Pakistan and
especially Sheikh Mujibur Rahman took a progressively rigid stand
which made such an agreement impossible. Meanwhile murder arson
and widespread disorder in defiance of governmental authority were
let loose in the province.
In the larger interest of the country I exercised utmost restraint
and patience and tried to evolve a generally acceptable formula to
resolve constitutional difficulties. In pursuit of the same objective,
I went personally to East Pakistan to hold consultations with Sheikh
Mujibur Rahman. Even while I was there, the Awami League leaders
continued to make statements and to indulge in practices which clearly
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
SECRET
- 2 -
showed that they were not prepared for pursuing a compromise. The
last round of talks in Dacca left me in no doubt that they had no inten-
tion of accepting any constitutional formula which would ensure
integrity and unity of the country. Eventually a point was reached
where the Awami League put forward final proposals which virtually
amounted to dismemberment of the country. Since they had no such
mandate from the people and as unity of the country was at stake, firm
action had to be taken to assert government's authority and to safeguard
the integrity of Pakistan. There was no option but to take that decision.
The situation in East Pakistan is well under control and normal
life is being restored. Accounts to the contrary circulated by some
outside sources especially from news media, do not reflect the correct
position and are designed to mislead world public opinion.
While we are engaged in a national effort to safeguard our integrity,
the Indian attitude is causing us grave concern. The Prime Minister,
the Foreign Minister and other important leaders of India have made
public statements regarding developments in East Pakistan which con-
stitute a clear interference in our internal affairs. A dangerous pre-
cedent is thus being set by India which is of direct concern to the
international community.
Far more serious is the deployment of nearly six divisions of
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
SECRET
- 3 -
the Indian Army not too far from the borders of East Pakistan. The
composition of these forces which include artillery regiments and
parachute brigades has no relevance to the needs of internal security
in West Bengal or to the requirements of Indian elections which ended
three weeks ago. This concentration of Indian forces on our borders
constitutes a direct threat to our security.
In view of Your Excellency's dedication to the cause of interna-
tional peace and security and to the principle of non-interference in
internal affairs of other states, I hope Your Excellency would consider
the desirability of expressing your support for the forces of peace
and stability in this region and of impressing upon Indian leaders the
paramount need for refraining from any action that might aggravate
the situation and lead to irretrievable consequences.
I remain
Very sincerely yours
A. M. Yahya Khan
SECRET
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Tab
THE PRIME MINISTER'S REPLY TO PRESIDENT YAHYA KHAN
(DELIVERED ON 9 APRIL BY THE BRITISH HIGH COMMISSIONER
IN ISLAMABAD).
Thank you for your message which I received on
31 March from your High Commissioner in London.
I know how hard you have strived for a political
settlement and that you must be deeply distressed at the
way things have turned out. I fully understand the
terrible dilemma in which you are placed, but I am sure
you will agree that, for the sake of all Pakistanis, there
must be an end to bloodshed and the use of force as soon
as possible and a resumption of discussions.
It also seems to me that the political leaders, who
received such massive support, must at some stage participate
in these discussions. Your High Commissioner told me on
31 March that Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was safe and in custody.
May I as a friend, and a friend of Pakistan, suggest that
at this juncture it would be helpful internationally if you
could give some public assurance about his safety and that
of other leaders of the Awami League.
In your message you expressed your concern at the
attitude of India. The Indian Government are well aware
of our view that intervention by other governments can
-only complicate the situation and this has also been made
clear by the Foreign and Commonwealth Secretary in the
House of Commons. We have moreover received a specific
assurance from the Indian Government that they have no
intention of embarking upon intervention, or of interfering
in the internal affairs of Pakistan.
In sending you this personal and confidential messgae,
I would emphasise that I also fully recognise that these
are the internal affairs of Pakistan. I recall however
the frank exchange of views which we had during my visit
to Islamabad in January, and I hope that you will feel
able to let me know with equal frankness, and in complete
confidence, how you see the situation, and how you think
the present strife in East Pakistan can be stopped and a
political settlement eventually achieved.
With warm regards
EDWARD HEATH
DECLASSIFIED
E.O. 13526, Section 3.5
NLN
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
By NARA, Date 12/16/2014
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
SECRET
The Prime Minister's Reply to
President Yahya Khan
(Delivered on 9 April by the British High Commissioner in Islamabad)
Thank you for your message which I received on 31 March from
your High Commissioner in London.
I know how hard you have strived for a political settlement and
that you must be deeply distressed at the way things have turned out.
I fully understand the terrible dilemma in which you are placed, but
I am sure you will agree that, for the sake of all Pakistanis, there
must be an end to bloodshed and the use of force as soon as possible
and a resumption of discussions.
It also seems to me that the political leaders, who received such
massive support, must at some stage participate in these discussions.
Your High Commissioner told me on 31 March that Sheikh Mujibur
Rahman was safe and in custody. May I as a friend, and a friend of
Pakistan, suggest that at this juncture it would be helpful internation-
ally if you could give some public assurance about his safety and that
of other leaders of the Awami League.
In your message you expressed your concern at the attitude of
India. The Indian Government are well aware of our view that interven-
tion by other governments can only complicate the situation and this has
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified P 2 OF 3
SECRET
- 2 -
also been made clear by the Foreign and Commonwealth Secretary
in the House of Commons. We have moveover received a specific
assurance from the Indian Government that they have no intention of
embarking upon intervention, or of interfering in the internal affairs
of Pakistan.
In sending you this personal and confidential message, I would
emphasise that I also fully recognise that these are the internal
affairs of Pakistan. I recall however the frank exchange of views
which we had during my visit to Islamabad in January, and I hope
that you will feel able to let me know with equal frankness, and in
complete confidence, how you see the situation, and how you think
the present strife in East Pakistan can be stopped and a political
settlement eventually achieved.
With warm regards
Edward Heath
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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30F3
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ACTION
27207
SECRET
April 29, 1971
MEMORANDUM FOR GENERAL HAIG
FROM:
Harold H. Saunders Hal
SUBJECT:
The President's Reply to Yahya
Attached is a memorandum for the President putting to him his
reply to President Yahya. You will recall that Henry agreed to
hold this response until we completed our policy review on Pakistan.
I believe the memo that has now gone to the President satisfies that
requirement and permits us to recommend a reply.
The response will be sent by telegram and therefore, even if it is
signed in California, early word of its signature will be helpful.
You will note that I have included a paragraph in the covering memo
which tries to capture the essence of what I assume will be the
President's decision on our general posture. The purpose of this is
to enable us to get into the telegram sending the text some expression
of the thinking behind it. I believe it is desirable to give Ambassador
Farland something more than a written text to work from in his
conversation with Yahya.
RECOMMENDATION: That you seek the President's approval of the
attached as soon as possible.
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ACTION
27207
SECRET
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
Brigadier General Alexander M. Haig, Jr.
SUBJECT:
Reply to President Yahya
Now that you have had a chance to reflect on a general posture
towards Pakistan, the time has come to reply to President Yahya's
letter. It was felt desirable not to respond until our policy review
was complete and the situation clearer so that no misleading signal
would be sent.
The incoming letter from Yahya [Tab B] explained political develop-
ments since December in terms of how the "progressively rigid stand"
of East Pakistani political leaders made it impossible to agree on
procedures for framing a constitution. This rigidity, he said, was
backed up by a widespread campaign of defiance for governmental
authority. His negotiations with them ended when they made clear
that they were bent on separation. He was concerned over the threat
of Indian military intervention, and he asked that the US urge India to
refrain from any action that might aggravate the situation.
The response for your signature [Tab A]
- -begins by stating your sympathy for the frustration of President
Yahya's political plans and for the suffering of all those affected
by recent events;
--shares Yahya's concern for the economic setbacks caused,
noting that events have put some of our programs in abeyance
but expressing hope that they might resume as soon as the
conditions disrupting them have been resolved;
--expresses hope that food distribution can soon resume in
East Pakistan and affirms our willingness to support any inter-
national relief effort;
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
SECRET
- 2 -
--informs him of the moves in Congress to urge suspension of
assistance but expresses the view that an early political
accommodation will help us contain these moves;
- -concludes by noting that we have urged India to show restraint.
This is basically the text recommended by Acting Secretary Irwin.
The text has been cleared with Mr. Price.
You may be interested in how other world leaders have responded to
similar letters from Yahya. President Podgorny replied in a critical
vein and seemed to come down on the side of the Bengalis and there
reportedly has been a similar follow-up from Kosygin. Chou en-Lai
took the opposite tact. More instructive perhaps is Prime Minister
Heath's response [Tab C]. In fairly direct terms he expressed his
sympathy for Yahya's "terrible dilemma" but stressed that there
"must be " an end to the "bloodshed and use of force" as soon as possible,
as well as a resumption of political discussions with the Awami League
leaders. He also urged Yahya to give "some public assurance" of the
safety of Awami League leader, Mujibur Rahman.
With this letter, I would recommend that something like the following
paragraph be sent to Ambassador Farland so that he will know your
thinking when he sees Yahya:
As a result of our recent policy review, it has been decided that
our posture should be one of making a serious effort to help
President Yahya bring an end to civil strife and achieve a peaceful
settlement of the political problems which triggered it. While
adjustments in some of our programs will be necessitated by the
situation, these will be for development and domestic political
reasons only and not as a facade for application of political pressure.
We recognize that the only long-term prospect of restoring normal
life in East Pakistan may be under conditions of greater East
Pakistani autonomy, but we would prefer to see West Pakistanis
reach that conclusion, if it is valid, for themselves. Our position
for now, therefore, will be to give President Yahya time to
follow through his efforts to work out his own arrangements
transitional to greater East Pakistani cooperation or autonomy.
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
SECRET
- 3 -
RECOMMENDATION: That you sign the letter at Tab A and approve
the above as general guidance for Ambassador Farland.
Approve
Other
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Dear Mr. President:
I have given most serious thought to your message on
the tragic situation which has developed in East Pakistan
in the past few weeks. This situation has been of great
concern to me.
Having labored so hard to carry out free national elections
and to achieve an early and orderly transition, you must
also be deeply disappointed not to have been able to transfer
power to a civilian government according to the plan you
had adopted and which you explained to me during your visit
here last fall.
First, I should like to emphasize the sympathy which we
in the United States feel for all the people of Pakistan who
have been affected by these events and our concern over
the loss of life and human suffering. I understand the
anguish you must have felt in making the difficult decisions
you have faced.
We also share your distress over the economic losses which
have occurred and the serious resulting problems with which
your Government has been faced. As you know, some of
the Americans who were affected by the cessation of
economic activity have had to leave East Pakistan because
they were no longer able to perform their usual work.
Because of the uncertainties, some of our programs are in
abeyance.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 2 -
I would hope that our people could return and that our
programs might resume as soon as the difficulties which
have reduced development, reconstruction and other
economic activities have been resolved. We look forward
to an early renewal of your national development effort and
of normal economic activity throughout Pakistan. We
especially hope for the restoration of internal communications
in East Pakistan to forestall food shortages, and we are
prepared to support international humanitarian relief there.
As you are probably aware, some opposition has been expressed
among our public and in our Congress to continuing economic
and military assistance to Pakistan under present circum-
stances. I hope that an end of civil strife and an early peace-
ful settlement which resolves the underlying political problems
will help to reduce this feeling. In any case, the important
point is that an accommodation will enable the people of
Pakistan to turn their attention to various development programs
and help ensure that the strife in East Pakistan does not lead
to an internationalization of the situation.
I recognize, Mr. President, that foreign involvement could
create new problems and compound the difficulty of securing
an ultimate settlement. We have been in touch with the
Government of India and have discussed the implications of
the present situation. We have stressed the need for restraint.
Please let me know if there are any ways in which you believe
that we can be helpful to the achievement of a satisfactory
settlement. I would hope Ambassador Farland may have an
early opportunity to discuss these matters with you and your
colleagues.
With warm personal regards,
Sincerely,
His Excellency
General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan
President of Pakistan
Rawalpindi
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
Tab B
MOST IMMEDIATE
embassy OF PAKISTAN
WASHINGTON, D.C.
AMBASSADOR OF PAKISTAN
March 31, 1971
Dear Mr. Secretary,
I have just been requested by the President of Pakistan to
convey the following message from him to President Richard M. Nixon.
I will be grateful if you transmit it to its high destination urgently.
BEGINS:
"Your Excellency.
I am taking earliest opportunity to inform you of the
political developments which have taken place in Pakistan
since general elections were held last December. It has
been my constant endeavour to lead the country towards a
restoration of democratic processes through elected
representatives of the people. For this purpose, I have
been holding talks with leaders of political parties. I had
hoped that these discussions would lead to a broad political
agreement regarding convening of the National Assembly
and framing of a constitution. Unfortunately however the
political leadership in East Pakistan and especially
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman took a progressively rigid stand
which made such an agreement impossible. Meanwhile murder
arson and widespread disorder in defiance of governmental
authority were let loose in the province.
In the larger interest of the country I exercised utmost
restraint and patience and tried to evolve a generally
acceptable formula to resolve constitutional difficulties.
page 2/
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 2 -
embassy OF pakistan
WASHINGTON, D. C.
AMBASSADOR OF PAKISTAN
In pursuit of the same objective, I went personally to
East Pakistan to hold consultations with Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
Even while I was there, the Awami League leaders continued
to make statements and to indulge in practices which
clearly showed that they were not prepared for pursuing a
compromise. The last round of talks in Dacca left me
in no doubt that they had no intention of accepting any
constitutional formula which would ensure integrity and
unity of the country. Eventually a point was reached where the
Awami League put forward final proposals which virtually
amounted to dismemberment of the country. Since they had
no such mandate from the people and as unity of the country
W&S at stake, firm action had to be taken to assert
government's authority and to safeguard the integrity of
Pakistan. There was no option but to take that decision.
The situation in East Pakistan is well under control
and normal life is being restored. Accounts to the contrary
circulated by some outside sources especially from news
media, do not reflect the correct position and are designed
to mislead world public opinion.
While we are engaged in a national effort to safeguard
our integrity, the Indian attitude is causing us grave concern.
The Prime Minister, the Foreign Minister and other important
leaders of India have made public statements regarding
page 3/....
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 3 -
embassy OF pakistan
WASHINGTON, D. C.
AMBASSADOR OF PAKISTAN
developments in East Pakistan which constitute a
clear interference in our internal affairs. A dangerous
precedent is thus being set by India which is of direct
concern to the international community.
Far more serious is the deployment of nearly six
divisions of the Indian Army not too far from borders
of East Pakistan. The composition of these forces which
include artillery regiments and parachute brigades has
no relevance to the needs of internal security in West
Bengal or to the requirements of Indian elections which
ended three weeks ago. This concentration of Indian
forces on our borders constitutes a direct threat to
our security.
In view of Your Excellency's dedication to the
cause of international peace and security and to the
principle of non-interference in internal affairs of other
states, I hope Your Excellency would consider the
desirability of expressing your support for the forces
of peace and stability in this region and of impressing
upon Indian leaders the paramount need for refraining
from any action that might aggravate the situation and
page 4/...
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 4 -
embassy OF pakistan
WASHINGTON, D. C.
ambassador OF PAKISTAN
:
lead to irretrievable consequences.
I remain
Very sincerely yours
A.M. Yahya Khan "
ENDS.
With my warm personal regards.
Yours sincerely,
Kilaly
( A.Hilaly )
The Honourable
William P. Rogers,
The Secretary of State
The Department of State
Washington D.C.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
SAUND EAS
Oadded $ 27207
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined
27207
(added)
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
WASHINGTON
7106125
April 27, 1971
SECRET
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
Subject: Developments in Pakistan: Reply to Yahya
Recommendation:
That you send the enclosed suggested letter to
President Yahya in reply to his letter to you of March 31.
Discussion:
During the four weeks since President Yahya decided
to use military force, the military situation has become
increasingly unfavorable for the Bengali separatists. The
army is in effective control of virtually all major popula-
tion centers while the separatists retain their hold only
over pockets in the north and south. The fighting has
resulted in a heavy loss of life, the almost complete
cessation of economic development activity, and the
political alienation of most citizens of East Bengal.
Although the Pakistan Army has control over most of the
province, the dangers of a long-term insurgency, supported
covertly from India, have increased.
In this situation, which other outside powers, includ-
ing the Chinese and Soviets, are trying to exploit, several
complex policy dilemmas confront the United States. A
Special National Intelligence Estimate has concluded that
there is little if any long term prospect for a politically
united Pakistan except through the continued use of force.
In these circumstances, we will have a delicate task ahead
of carrying water on both shoulders; maintaining good rela-
tions with West Pakistan while not alienating East Pakistan
Bengali leaders who in the long run may be running their
own show separately or with the loosest possible lines to
West Pakistan.
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
SECRET
-2-
I have asked that the recent paper we prepared for
the Senior Review Group be made available for your study
since it presents the dilemmas we face very well. Over
the coming weeks there will be a number of decisions which
will have to be weighed from the point of view of the
aforementioned two objectives. The suggested reply to
President Yahya's letter to you takes this into account.
John Acting h. Secretary Sura /I
Enclosure:
Suggested reply.
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Suggested Reply
Dear Mr. President:
I have given most serious thought to your message of
March 31 concerning the tragic situation which has
developed in East Pakistan in the past few weeks. This
situation has been of great concern to me.
I realize how hard you have labored to carry out free
national elections in your country and to achieve an early
and orderly transfer of power to the elected representa-
tives of the people. I feel sure that you must also be
deeply concerned not to have been able to transfer power to
a civilian government according to the plan you had
adopted and which you explained to me during your visit
here last fall.
First, I should like to emphasize the sympathy which
I, and the people of the United States in general, feel for
the people of Pakistan who have been affected by these events,
and our concern over the loss of life and human suffering.
His Excellency
a
General Agha Mohammed Yahya Khan
President of Pakistan
Rawalpindi
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
SECRET
-2-
We share your distress over the economic losses which
have occurred and the serious resulting problems with which
your Government has been faced. As you know, some of the
Americans who were affected by the cessation of economic
activity have had to leave East Pakistan because they were
no longer able to perform their usual work. Because of the
uncertainties created by recent developments we have found
it necessary to hold some of our programs in abeyance.
However, I would hope that our people could return and that
our programs might resume when the difficulties which have
reduced development, reconstruction and other economic
activities have been resolved. We look forward to an early
renewal of your national development effort and of normal
economic activity throughout West and East Pakistan as well
as to the restoration of internal communications in East
Pakistan to forestall food shortages and facilitate a return
to normal economic and social life. Meanwhile, we have
informed your Government that we are prepared to support
international humanitarianrelief in East Pakistan.
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
SECRET
-3-
I must tell you in all candor of the concerns among
the public and in the United States Congress over recent
events in East Pakistan, particularly over reports that
United States-supplied military equipment has been used.
These concerns can best be relieved if there is an end of
civil strife and an early peaceful settlement which resolves
the underlying political problems. Such a peaceful
accommodation will enable the people of Pakistan to turn
their attention to various development programs and help
ensure that the strife in East Pakistan does not lead to
an internationalization of the situation.
I recognize, Mr. President, that foreign involvement
could create new problems and compound the difficulty of
securing an ultimate settlement. We have been in touch with
the Government of India and have discussed the implications
of the present situation. We have stressed the need for
restraint, which I am confident will be reciprocated on
your part.
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
SECRET
-4-
Please let me know if there are any ways in which
you believe that we can be helpful to the achievement of
a satisfactory settlement. I would hope Ambassador Farland
may have an early opportunity to discuss these matters with
you and other senior officials of your Government.
Sincerely,
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
27207
department OF STATE
Washington, D.C. 20520
7104651
SECRET/NODIS
March 31, 1971
MEMORANDUM FOR MR. HENRY A. KISSINGER
THE WHITE HOUSE
Subject: Letter to President Nixon from
Pakistan President Yahya Khan
The attached message was delivered to the
Department late this afternoon.
Our recommendations regarding a response will
be sent to you in a separate memorandum. - SENT
UNDER IRWIN MEMO To PRES. of 4/27/71
(s/s 7106125)
minhal Handen
for
Theodore L. Eliot, Jr.
Executive Secretary
Attachment:
As stated.
Original used in Memo &
President Copy substituted,
SECRET/NODIS
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DOC
RECD
1207
INITIAL ACTION OFF
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NSC CORRESPONDENCE PROFILE
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04
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2720
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sensitive
SUBJECT: Ltr to Pres. from Rakistan Pres. Yahua Khan
informing of political developmen to since las Dec.
REFERENCE: S/S 7104651
OTHER
AND STATE Proposed REPLY
NOT XEROXED
UNDER IRWIN MEMO To PRES
APP'TS: PRES
HAK
TALKER
MEMCON
INTERNAL ROUTING AND DISTRIBUTION
ACTION REQUIRED
DATE REQ. ADDED 4/27/71
ACTION
INFO
REC
MEMO FOR HAK
(
CY
)
ADVANCE CYS TO HAK/HAIG
FOR
MEMO FOR PRES.
(
)
STAFF SECRETARY
REPLY FOR
SIGNATURE
(
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FAR EAST
FOR DISTRIBUTION/DISPATCH
(
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SECRETARIAT DISTRIBUTION/ACTION
SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA
MEMO
TO
(
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RECOMMENDATIONS
(
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EUROPE/CANADA
JOINT MEMO
(
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LATIN AMERICA
REFER TO STATE
(
)
UNITED NATIONS
ANY ACTION NECESSARY
(
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ECONOMIC
CONCURRENCE
(
)
SCIENTIFIC
DUE DATE:
LR PLANNING
COMMENTS: (Including 0401 Special Instructions)
PROGRAM ANALYSIS
NSC PLANNING
CONGRESSIONAL
DATE
FROM
TO
S
4/29/71
Saunders
Haig
X
5/7/71
To ACTION Addl Pro REQUIRED for decision
(03/02) TO
Saunders
INTERNAL/INTERIM ROUTING
Haig
19/87
USC
HAR ega memo Theire
"5/7
Pus approved recom
MICROFILM DATA
CROSS REF WITH
NOTIFY
DATE
— serattached
SEE LOG
DISPATCH: LETTER/MEMO
DO
INIT
DISPOSITION
JOINED BY LOG
COPIES: (AS MARKED ABOVE)
MAY DATE
SPECIAL FILE RQMT:
SA,
HP,
HM
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NSC
SPECIAL DISPOSITION COMMENTS:
TO )
PAF
WHC
SUSPENSE CY ATTACHED:
YES
NO
SUBF
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
# GPO: 1971-412-412
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Department of State
UNITED STATES OF AMERICAN
TELEGRAM
EXPIN EXPIRE
SECRET 644
PAGE 01 STATE 084892
TUATION ROOM
WHITE HOUSE
91
"71 MAY 15 AM 8:34 34
ORIGIN SS-45
INFO OCT-01 /046 R
66638DRAFTED BY: NEA/C VAN HOLLEN
APPROVED BY: NEA: CHRISTOPHER VAN HOLLEN
S/S: CURRAN
TEXT RECEIVED FROM WHITE HOUSE
012364
R 150026Z MAY 71
FM SECSTATE WASHDC
TO AMEMBASSY ISLAMABAD
INFO AMCONSUL DACCA
AMEMBASSY NEW DELHI
SECR E T STATE 084892
EXDIS
SUBJ: LETTER TO PRESIDENT YAHYA
1. FOLLOWING IS TEXT OF SIGNED LETTER DATED MAY 7 FROM
PRESIDENT NIXON TO PRESIDENT YAHA IN REPLY TO PRESIDENT
YAHYA'S LETTER OF MARCH 31, 1971.
QUOTE DEAR MR PRESIDENT: I HAVE GIVEN MOST SERIOUS
THOUGHT TO YOUR MESSAGE ON THE TRAGIC SITUATION WHICH HAS:
DEVELOPED IN EAST PAKISTAN IN THE PAST FEW weeks. THIS
SITUATION HAS BEEN OF GREAT CONCERN TO ME.
HAVING LABORED SO HARD TO CARRY OUT FREE NATIONAL
ELECTIONS AND TO ACHIEVE AN EARLY AND ORDERLY TRANSITION,
YOU MUST ALSO BE DEEPLY DISAPPOINTED NOT HAVE BEEN
ABLE TO TRANSFER POWER TO A CIVILIAN GOVERNMENT ACCORDING
TO THE PLAN YOU HAD ADOPTED AND WHICH YOU EXPLAINED TO ME
DURING YOUR VISIT HERE LAST FALL
FIRST, I SHOULD LIKE TO EMPHASIZE THE SYMPATHY WHICHI
WE IN THE UNITED STATES FEEL FOR ALLI THE PEOPLE OF PAKISTAN
WHO HAVE BEEN AFFECTED BY THESE EVENTS ANDI OUR CONCERN
OVER THE LOSS OF LIFE AND HUMAN SUFFERING. I UNDERSTAND
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE SECRET ORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Department of State
UNITED STATES OF AMERICAN
TELEGRAM
SECRET
PAGE 02 STATE ø84892
EXPIS EXPIS EXPIS EXPIS
THE ANGUISH YOU MUST HAVE FELT IN MAKING THEI DIFFICULT
DECISIONS YOU HAVE FACED.
WE ALSO SHARE YOUR DISTRESS OVER THE ECONOMIC LOSSES:
WHICH HAVE OCCURRED AND THE SERIOUS RESULTING PROBLEMS
WITH WHICH YOUR GOVERNMENT HAS BEEN FACED. AS YOU KNOW,
SOME OF THE AMERICANS WHO WERE AFFECTED BY THE CESSATION
OF ECONOMIC ACTIVITY HAVE HAD TO LEAVELEAST PAKISTANI
BECAUSE THEY WERE NO LONGER ABLE TO PERFORM THEIR USUALI
WORK. BECAUSE OF THE UNCERTANTIES SOME OF OURI PROGRAMS:
ARE IN ABEYANCE.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO AN EARLY RENEWAL OFI YOUR NATIONALI
DEVELOPMENT EFFORT AND OF NORMALI ECONOMIC ACTIVITY
THROUGHOUT PAKISTAN. WE ESPECIALLY HOPE FOR THE
RESTORATION OF INTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS IN EAST PAKISTANI
TO FORESTALL FOOD SHORTAGES, AND WE ARE PREPARED TO
SUPPORT INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN RELIEF THERE.
AS YOU ARE PROBABLY AWARE, SOME OPPOSITION HAS BEEN
EXPRESSED AMONG OUR PUBLIC AND IN OUR CONGRESS TO
CONTINUING ECONOMIC AND MILITARY ASSISTANCE TO PAKISTANI
UNDER PRESENT CIRCUMSTANCES. THIS WAS DUE LARGELY TO
THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF CIVIL STRIFE WHICH WILLI HOPEFULLY
CONTINUE TO SUBSIDE. FURTHER, IT IS TO NO ONE'S ADVANTAGE
TO PERMIT THE SITUATION IN EAST PAKISTAN TO LEAD TO AN
INTERNATIONALIZATION OF THE SITUATION. FOREIGN INVOLVEMENT
COULD CREATE NEW PROBLEMS AND COMPOUND THEI DIFFICULTY OF
SECURING AN ULTIMATE SETTLEMENT. WE HAVE BEEN IN TOUCH
WITH THE GOVERNMENT OF INDIA AND HAVE DISCUSSED THE
IMPLICATIONS OF THE PRESENT SITUATION. WE HAVE STRESSEDI
THE NEED FOR RESTRAINT.
PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF THERE ARE ANY WAYS IN WHICH YOU
BELIEVE THAT WE CAN BE helpfuli TO THE ACHIEVEMENT OFI
A SATISFACTORY SETTLEMENT. I WOULD HOPE AMBASSADOR
FARLAND MAY HAVE AN EARLY OPPORTUNITY TO DISCUSS THESE
MATTERS WITH YOU AND YOUR COLLEAGUES.
WITH WARM PERSONAL REGARDS, SINCERELY, RICHARD NIXONI
UNQUOTE. ROGERS
SECRET
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITH IT THE AUTHO RIZATION OF THE ECUTIVE SECRETARY
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DEPARTMENT
OF
STATE
EXCES
Department of State
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
TELEGRAM
SECRET 632
PAGE 01 ISLAMA 04891 201029Z
17
ACTION SS-45
2
INFO OCT-01 1046 W
R 200945Z MAY 71
FM AMEMBASSY ISLAMABAD
TO AMCONSUL KARACHI
AMCONSUL LAHORE
INFO SECSTATE WASHDC 8585
SITUATION SITUATION ROOM 050055 ROOM
WHITE HOUSE HOUSE
95:6 WV 2002 MAY IL.
S EC R EST ISLAMABAD 4891
EXDIS
SUBJ 8 LETTER TO PRESIDENT YAHYA
1. FOLLOWING IS TEXT OF SIGNED LETTER DATED MAY 7 FROM
PRESIDENT NIXON TO PRESIDENT YAHA IN REPLY TO PRESIDENT
YAHYA'S LETTER OF MARCH 31, 1971.
QUOTE DEAR MR PRESIDENT: I HAVE GIVEN MOST SERIOUS
THOUGHT TO YOUR MESSAGE ON THE TRAGIC SITUATION WHICH HAS
DEVELOPED IN EAST PAKISTAN IN THE PAST FEW WEEKS. THIS
SITUATION HAS BEEN OF GREAT CONCERN TO ME.
HAVING LABORED SO HARD TO CARRY OUT FREE NATIONAL
ELECTIONS AND TO ACHIEVE AN EARLY AND ORDERLY TRANSITION,
YOU MUST ALSO BE DEEPLY DISAPPOINTED NOT HAVE BEEN
ABLE TO TRANSFER POWER TO A CIVILIAN GOVERNMENT ACCORDING
TO THE PLAN YOU HAD ADOPTED AND WHICH YOU EXPLAINED TO ME
DURING YOUR VISIT HERE LAST FALL.
FIRST, I SHOULD LIKE TO EMPHASIZE THE SYMPATHY WHICH
WE IN THE UNITED STATES FEEL FOR ALL THE PEOPLE OF PAKISTAN
WHO HAVE BEEN AFFECTED BY THESE EVENTS AND OUR CONCERN
OVER THE LOSS OF LIFE AND HUMAN SUFFERING. I UNDERSTAND
THE ANGUISH YOU MUST HAVE FELT IN MAKING THE DIFFICULT
DECISIONS YOU HAVE FACED.
WE ALSO SHARE YOUR DISTRESS OVER THE ECONOMIC LOSSES
WHICH HAVE OCCURRED AND THE SERIOUS RESULTING PROBLEMS
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DEPARTMENT
OF
STATE
Department of State
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
TELEGRAM
SECRET
EXCES EXPIS EXCES
PAGE 02 ISLAMA 04891 201029Z
WITH WHICH YOUR GOVERNMENT HAS BEEN FACED. AS YOU KNOW,
SOME OF THE AMERICANS WHO WERE AFFECTED BY THE CESSATION
OF ECONOMIC ACTIVITY HAVE HAD TO LEAVE EAST PAKISTAN
BECAUSE THEY WERE NO LONGER ABLE TO PERFORM THEIR USUAL
WORK. BECAUSE OF THE UNCERTANTIES, SOME OF OUR PROGRAMS
ARE IN ABEYANCE
WE LOOK FORWARD TO AN EARLY RENEWAL OF YOUR NATIONAL
DEVELOPMENT EFFORT AND OF NORMAL ECONOMIC ACTIVITY
THROUGHOUT PAKISTAN. WE ESPECIALLY HOPE FOR THE
RESTORATION OF INTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS IN EAST PAKISTAN
TO FORESTALL FOOD SHORTAGES, AND WE ARE PREPARED TO
SUPPORT INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN RELIEF THERE.
AS YOU ARE PROBABLY AWARE, SOME OPPOSITION HAS BEEN
EXPRESSED AMONG OUR PUBLIC AND IN OUR CONGRESS TO
CONTINUING ECONOMIC AND MILITARY ASSISTANCE TO PAKISTAN
UNDER PRESENT CIRCUMSTANCES. THIS WAS DUE LARGELY TO
THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF CIVIL STRIFE WHICH WILL HOPEFULLY
CONTINUE TO SUBSIDE. FURTHER, IT IS TO NO ONE'S ADVANTAGE
TO PERMIT THE SITUATION IN EAST PAKISTAN TO LEAD TO AN
INTERNATIONALIZATION OF THE SITUATION. FOREIGN INVOLVEMENT
COULD CREATE NEW PROBLEMS AND COMPOUND THE DIFFICULTY OF
SECURING AN ULTIMATE SETTLEMENT. WE HAVE BEEN IN TOUCH
WITH THE GOVERNMENT OF INDIA AND HAVE DISCUSSED THE
IMPLICATIONS OF THE PRESENT SITUATION. WE HAVE STRESSED
THE NEED FOR RESTRAINT.
PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF THERE ARE ANY WAYS IN WHICH YOU
BELIEVE THAT WE CAN BE HELPFUL TO THE ACHIEVEMENT OF
A SATISFACTORY
SETTLEMENT. I WOULD HOPE AMBASSADOR
FARLAND MAY HAVE AN EARLY OPPORTUNITY TO DISCUSS THESE
EXCES
MATTERS WITH YOU AND YOUR COLLEAGUES.
WITH WARM PERSONAL REGARDS, SINCERELY, RICHARD NIXON
UNQUOTE. ROGERS
FARLAND
NOT TO BE RODUCED WIT Reproduced UT at THE XECUTIVE SECRETARY
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
7
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
30026/ 30140
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20506
July 21, 1971
MEMORANDUM FOR
Mr. Theodore L. Eliot, Jr.
Executive Secretary
Department of State
SUBJECT:
Presidential Letters to Prime Minister
Gandhi and President Yahya
I enclose copies of the President's letters to Prime
Minister Gandhi and President Yahya which were
delivered by Mr. Kissinger. Will you please make
copies of both letters available to Ambassadors
Keating and Farland.
Jeanne nm W. Davis
MICHORTIM
Staff Secretary
DATA
DO
INIT
Emia
1971
ORIG) NSC
TO J, PAF
WHC
SUBF
7/21/71 Dispatcher!
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Dear Mr. President:
I appreciated receiving from your Adviser for Economic
Affairs and special representative, Mr. M. M. Ahmad,
your thoughtful letter of April 17 commenting on the
unfortunate situation which has developed in your country
and reiterating your determination to press forward none-
theless toward restoring democratic processes and trans-
ferring power peacefully to the elected representatives of
the people.
As you know, Mr. Ahmad presented your letter to me
personally on May 10 and we had a good talk at that time.
Among other things, he explained to me your plans for
addressing these important political objectives, and I was
most encouraged to hear of them. Mr. Ahmad also met
separately with a number of high officials of our government.
These discussions were useful to us in gaining a better
understanding of the problems you are facing. r I trust they
were also useful to him.
Since then you have been good enough to receive Ambassador
Farland in Karachi on May 22 so that he could present my
letter of May 7 and exchange views with you concerning
important aspects of the situation in your country and of our
continuing relationship. I am pleased to know that you found
my letter satisfactory and that you have responded so
positively to suggestions we have made in an effort to be
helpful in these circumstances.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
accephe
Let me say in particular that I was gratified to learn this
week of your decision to request formally the assistance
of the United Nations in organizing an international humani-
tarian relief effort for the people of East Pakistan and of
your letter to Secretary General U Thant confirming that
decision. I have also noted your public declarations
encouraging refugees from East Pakistan now in India to
return to their homes.
I believe, however, that more will
have to be done if that hope is to become a reality.
and
taxe Jan will to Doon
I feel sure you will agree with me that the first essential
step is to bring an end to the civil strife and restore peaceful
conditions in East Pakistan. Then full-scale efforts can go
forward within an international framework to help your govern-
real
ment provide relief assistance to the people who need it. In
this respect, we are particularly concerned about the people
of the coastal area who were affected by the cyclonic disaster
last November. The people of the United States and other
friendly countries, and international organizations, have
endeavored to assist these people in the past, and I can assure
you that my government and countrymen are already prepared
not only to resume humanitarian relief efforts in this special
area but to extend them to the rest of East Pakistan under the
aegis of the United Nations in accordance with arrangements
now under discussion.
While this is being done, it will, of course, be essential to
ensure that tensions in the region as a whole do not increase
to the point of international conflict. I would be less than
candid if I did not express my deep concern over the possibility
that the situation there might escalate to that danger point,
in large measure over the issue of the mounting numbers of
refugees who are imposing such heavy burdens on the resources
and economy of your neighbor, India, and who are bringing
increasing pressures upon its government.
I believe, therefore,
that it is absolutely vital for the maintenance of peace in the
Subcontinent to restore conditions in East Pakistan conducive
to the return of these refugees. I urge you to continue to
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
exercise restraint both along your borders with India and
in your general relations with that country, as we are
counseling the Government of India to do on its part.
It is only in a peaceful atmosphere that you and your admin-
istration can make effective progress toward the political
accommodation you seek in East Pakistan. You have my
heartfelt wishes for success in achieving that much desired
objective.
With warm personal regards,
Sincerely,
His Excellency
General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan
President of Pakistan
President's House
Rawalpindi
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
INFORMATION
28351
CONFIDENTIAL
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
one
FROM:
Henry A. Kissinger
SUBJECT:
Letter from President Yahya
In case you have a chance to glance at this before you see M. M.
Ahmad, you may wish to be aware of the main points in a letter
from President Yahya that Mr. Ahmad will be bringing:
He shares your hope, sent with your foreign policy message,
that normal conditions in East Pakistan may be restored so
that the interrupted task of a peaceful transfer of power to
elected representatives may be resumed. He is aware of the
pressure of public opinion in the US and regards much of it
as based on unauthenticated reports.
He made a major effort last month to achieve a workable
constitutional arrangement which would have insured the
integrity and progress of Pakistan. His efforts were thwarted
by a group of unpatriotic elements. M. M. Ahmad is prepared
to explain these events.
-- He is gratified that the US has made clear that it recognizes
the current events in East Pakistan as an internal affair.
He thanks you for your understanding and cooperation from the
Administration, especially from Secretary Rogers and his
Department.
He hopes to announce shortly a plan for the induction of
provincial governments on the basis of the elections held last
December. He hopes this will create conditions to enable progress
to the next stage of dealing with his constitutional issues.
CONFIDENTIAL
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
RAWALPINDI.
28351
From: General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan,
H.Pk., H.J. ,
President of Pakistan
17 April 1971
Dear Mr President,
In my pre-occupation with events and developments
at home, I have not so far been able to acknowledge your
letter of March 3, 1971, with which I received a copy of
your valuable and comprehensive report to the Congress of
the United States on American Foreign Policy. I take this
opportunity of thanking you for your letter and for your
very kind expression of sympathy for me and the people of
Pakistan in this hour of crisis. I share your hope,
Mr President, that, with the restoration of normal
conditions in East Pakistan, saner councils in that
province will emerge to assist in the resumption of the
interrupted task of democratic processes and a peaceful
transfer of power to the elected representatives of the
people.
I trust that you have had an opportunity of seeing
the message which I had instructed my Ambassador in
Washington to convey to you on March 30, 1971. I am
conscious of the pressure of public opinion in the United
States much of it based on unauthenticated, and in some
cases biased, reports inspired by the Indian Government -
which has created an impression quite different from the
true state of affairs in Pakistan. No one is more pained
than I am, Mr President, about the events leading to the
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 2 -
Think
breakdown of law and order in East Pakistan. During the
eleven days which I spent in Dacca last month, my efforts
were directed solely towards the achievement of a workable
constitutional arrangement which would ensure the integrity,
sovereignty and progress of Pakistan. It is indeed tragic
that my efforts were thwarted by a group of unpatriotic
elements.
In order to acquaint you more fully with the back-
ground of the events of the last three months, following the
general elections and with my plans for the future, I am
sending Mr M. M. Ahmad, my Adviser for Economic Affairs, to
Washington to convey to you personally all relevent
information. I hope you will be good enough to find the time
to receive him and provide him the opportunity to explain to
you my present endeavours and future plans.
At this time of painful and anguished crisis in
Pakistan, I am deeply gratified that your Government has made
it clear, to all those who have raised the question, that
the United States recognises the current events in East
Pakistan as an internal affair, for whose solution the
responsibility rests with the Government of Pakistan.
May I avail of this opportunity, Mr President, of
expressing to you my appreciation of the understanding and
cooperation which we have received from your Administration,
especially from your esteemed Secretary for State, the
Hon'ble Mr william Rogers, and the officials of his
Department. Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 3 -
Think
I am happy to know also that the alternative arrange-
ments which we made for the evacuation of American nationals
from Dacca by Pakistan International Airlines, as a
substitute for the requested use of United States Air Force
aircraft, were so readily accepted and that these arrange-
ments have been satisfactorily completed.
In conclusion, may I reiterate what I said in my
letter of March 30 that it continues to be my endeavour to
resume the interrupted process of transferring power to the
elected representatives of the people at the very earliest
date. Now that the situation in East Pakistan is rapidly
returning to normalcy, I intend to announce shortly, as a
first step, my plan for the induction of provincial
governments on the basis of elections held in December. It
is my earnest hope that this will create appropriate
conditions to enable me to proceed to the next stage of
dealing with the constitutional issues at the national level.
Litt bermest personal Regards
Sincerel
thyough
His Excellency Mr Richard M. Nixon,
President of the United States of America,
The White House,
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DOC
RECD
LOG NBR
INITIAL ACTION OFF
MO DA
MO DA HR
NSC CORRESPONDENCE PROFILE
05
10
05
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TO: PRES
FROM: ELIOT
U
NO FORN
nodis
KISSINGER
ROGERS, W
LOU
BUO
EXDIS
DOC SOURCE/CLASS/DESCRIPTION
HAIG
LAIRD, M
C x
EYES ONLY
LIMDIS
Saunders
Kissinger
S
CODE WORD
RES DATA
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DECLASSIFIED
a GPO: 1971-412-412
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
#7106999
THE SECRETARY OF STATE
7107481
WASHINGTON
May 25, 1971
SECRET
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
Subject: Letters to Indian Prime Minister Gandhi and
Pakistan President Yahya Khan
There are attached proposed draft letters from you to
Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Pakistan President
Yahya Khan responding to letters which each has recently
sent to you.
Prime Minister Gandhi's letter to you concentrated on
the refugee problem and India's limited capacity and
resources to deal with it. She has sought your advice on
how to deal with the problem and has appealed to you to use
the power and prestige of the United States to influence
the policies of the Government of Pakistan.
In the suggested response we have tried to meet her
concerns in two ways, by indicating the various financial
and diplomatic actions we have taken to contribute to an
international refugee relief program in India and the
efforts we have made to get underway an international
relief program in Pakistan. We have also told her of our
private efforts with the Government of Pakistan to address
the underlying cause of the present crisis, the need for
a peaceful accommodation in East Pakistan. In addition
the letter also calls for the Indians to act with restraint
in the present difficult circumstances. We believe that
we can maximize our influence to prevent India-Pakistan
escalation by simultaneously calling for restraint and
indicating that we are addressing the basic problem in
East Pakistan which Mrs. Gandhi wrote to you about.
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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SECRET
-2-
President Yahya's letter of April 17 to you was
delivered by his special representative M. M. Ahmad when
he called on you May 10. While it was in part intended
as a letter of introduction for Ahmad's call, it sought
to justify the military action which Yahya had taken in
East Pakistan and to assure you that he intends to
persevere in his objective of restoring democratic
processes and transferring power to the elected represen-
tatives of the people in Pakistan.
The suggested reply is designed to reemphasize the
main points which we have endeavored to make with the
Pakistanis in recent talks both here and in Islamabad:
the importance of bringing an end to the civil strife and
restoring peaceful conditions, of launching an interna-
tional humanitarian relief effort, of encouraging the
refugees from East Pakistan in India to return home, and
of exercising restraint vis-a-vis India to prevent
internationalization of the conflict. In short, it
stresses the need to create an atmosphere in which
effective progress toward a political accommodation can
be made.
Recommendation:
That you send the attached letters to Prime Minister
Gandhi and President Yahya Khan.
William P. Rogers
Attachments:
Letters to Prime Minister Gandhi
and President Yahya Khan
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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SECRET
SUGGESTED LETTER
Dear Madame Prime Minister:
I have read with very great interest your letter of May 13
setting out your government's views on the tragic situation which
has developed in Pakistan. I fully share your concern at the loss
of life which has taken place, at the dislocation which the flow
of refugees is causing for India, and at the dangers for the
stability of the area which are implicit in the present situation.
We share your government's hope that peace and stability can
be restored in the sub-continent and that all the countries of the
area can develop democratic systems of government consistent with
their own traditions and history.
The United States Government has not been a passive observer
of these events. We have had under active and continuous review
two elements of the situation which we regard as particularly urgent:
the human suffering and dislocation which has taken place and the
basic political cause of this suffering and dislocation. The public
focus of our attention and activity has been upon the urgent humani-
tarian relief problems which have arisen in East Pakistan as a
result of civil conflict there and which have been created in India
Her Excellency
Indira Candhi,
Prime Minister of India,
New Delhi.
SECRET
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SECRET
2
by the refugee flow. We have actively supported over the last two
months a variety of efforts to promote an international humanitarian
relief effort. We have discussed these matters on several occasions
with your representatives as well as with representatives of the
Government of Pakistan and the United Nations.
I am happy to see that these efforts have borne fruit. The
UN High Comissioner for Refugees is in the process of mounting
and coordinating a relief effort in India in close cooperation with
your government. The UN Secretary General has appealed to the world
comunity for emergency relief assistance. In April I authorized
$2.5 million for refugee relief of which a contribution of $500,000
-as donated in response to the Secretary General's appeal. We have
decided to provide an additional $15 million in food and cash to
help the UN High Commissioner with refugee feeding and other assistance
and in support of the program already initiated by the US voluntary
agencies under which 300,000 refugees are being fed. We have agreed
to your government's request to provide four C-1.30 aircraft to move
refugees from Tripura to Assam and food supplies from Assam to
Tripura. We stand ready to assist in other ways.
In regard to the basic cause of this human suffering and dis-
location, my government has also been active. We have chosen to
work primarily through quiet diplomacy, as we have informed your
Ambassador and Foreign Minister. We have been discussing with the
Government of Pakistan the importance of steps to bring about a
peaceful political
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SECRET
3
accomodation and the restoration of conditions in which the
refugee flow would stop and the refugees would be able to return
to their homes.
Let me assure you that we fully realize the dangers which
this massive movement of people have created. I recognize the
very great burdens which India has to bear. I recognize that
the international response to the Secretary General's appeal will
only blunt the economic impact of the influx of refugees on your
plans for the future. We will keep this in mind in our program-
ming for economic assistance.
I should also mention to you my concern that the present
situation not develop into a more widespread conflict in South
Asia either as a result of the refugee flow or through an escala-
tion of the insurgency which may be developing in East Pakistan.
This is a problem which can and should be solved peacefully. As
you know, in recent months we have been impressed by the vitality
of Indian democracy and the strength of purpose which your govern-
ment has shown in meeting the complex social and economic problems
which India faces. This progress should not be interrupted by war.
India as one of Asia's major powers has a special responsibility
for the peace and stability of the region. I hope that India,
in the face of what I recognize to be trying and difficult circum-
stances, will continue to act with restraint.
SECRET
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SECRET
4
I very much appreciate your thoughtful comments on my
daughter's engagement. I know she and her fiance appreciate
your expression of happiness at their engagement.
With warm personal regards,
Sincerely,
Richard Nixon
Clearances:
S/R - Mr. Kellogg (subs)
AID/NESA - Mr. Rees (subs)
NEA/PAF - Mr. Spengler
NEA/INC: DTSchneider
x22141, 5/25/71
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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SECRET
SUGGESTED LETTER
Dear Mr. President:
I appreciated receiving from your Adviser for Economic Affairs
and special representative, Mr. M. M. Ahmad. your thoughtful letter
of April 17 commenting on the unfortunate situation which has developed
in your country and reiterating your determination to press forward
nonetheless toward restoring democratic processes and transferring
power peacefully to the elected representatives of the people.
As you know, Mr. Ahmad presented your letter to me personally
on May 10 and we had a good talk at that time. Amona other things,
he explained to me your plans for addressing these important political
objectives, which I was encouraged to hear. Mr. Ahmad also met
separately with a number of high officials of our government. These
discussions have been useful to us in gaining a better understanding
of the problems you are facing. I trust they were also useful to him.
Since then you have been good enough to receive Ambassador Farland
in Karachi on May 22 so that he could present my letter of May 7 and
exchange views with you on important aspects of the situation in your
country and of our continuing relationship. I am pleased to know
that you found my letter satisfactory and that you have responded SO
His Excellency
General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan,
President of Pakistan,
President's House,
Rawalpindi, Pakistan.
SECRET
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- 2 ..
positively to suggestions we have made in an effort to be helpful
in these circumstances.
Let me say in particular that I was gratified to learn this
week of your decision to request formally the assistance of the
United Nations in organizing an international humanitarian relief
effort for the people of East Pakistan who have suffered loss and
deprivation from recent events there, and of your letter to Secretary
General U Thant confirming that decision. I have also noted your
public declarations encouraging refugees from East Pakistan now in
India to return to their homes. I believe that more will need to
be done to make that hope a reality.
I feel sure you will agree with me that the first essential step
is to bring an end to the civil strife and restore peaceful conditions
in East Pakistan. Then full-scale efforts can go forward within an
international framework to help your government provide relief assistance
to the people who need it. In this respect we have particular concern
for the people of the coastal area affected by the cyclonic disaster
last November whom the people of the United States and other friendly
countries, and international organizations, have endeavored to assist.
I would like to reassure you that our government and countrymen are
already prepared not only to resume humanitarian relief efforts in
SECRET
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SECRET
- 3 -
this special area but to extend them to the rest of East Pakistan
under the aegis of the United Nations in accordance with arrange-
ments now under discussion.
While this is being done it will, of course, be essential to
ensure that tensions in the region as a whole do not increase to the
point of international conflict. I would be less than candid if I
did not acknowledge that I have recently become deeply concerned over
the possibility that this situation might escalate to that danger point,
in large measure over the issue of the mounting numbers of refugees who
are imposing such heavy burdens on the resources and economy of your
neighbor, India, and are bringing increasing pressures to bear on its
government. I believe, therefore, that it is absolutely vital for
the maintenance of peace in the Subcontinent to restore conditions in
East Pakistan conducive to the return of these refugees. I urge you
to continue to exercise restraint both along your borders with India
and in your general relations with that country, as we are counseling
the Government of India on its part to do.
I remain of the conviction that it is only in a peaceful atmosphere
that you and your administration can make effective progress toward
the political accommodation you seek. You have my heartfelt wishes
for success in achieving that much desired objective.
Sincerely,
Clearances:
NEA - Mr. Van Hollen
Richard Nixon
AID/NESA Reproduced the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
This document NEA has been 10 reviewed pursuant to Executive DECLASSIFIED Order 13526 and has been determined to bei declassified.
PRIME MINISTER
New Delhi
May 13, 1971.
Dar Mr. President,
Thank you for your warm message of congratulations
on our recent elections. You know how much I value your
good wishes.
I trust you have been following closely the sequence
of events in East Bengal. I do not wish to write about the
barbarities which have been committed across our eastern
border. These have been vividly described in the world
press. My concern is to draw your attention to the gigantic
problems which Pakistan's actions in East Bengal have
created for India.
The carnage in East Bengal has naturally disturbed
the Indian people deeply. There has been a surge of emotion
which we have tried to contain but we find 1t increasingly
difficult to do so in view of the systematic effort on the
part of Pakistan to force millions of people to take refuge
in our territory. The two problems - Pakistan's war on the
people of East Bengal and its impact on us in the form of
millions of refugees - cannot be separated.
Soon after 11 was returned to office in March, my
government started mobilising all its energies in order to
make up for the tardy growth of our economy in recent years.
in the best of circumstances this would have been a
formidable task but the situation with which Pakistan has
confronted us makes it almost impossible. As things are at
present, our economy faces disruption. This is not a prospect
which we can contemplate with equanimity. As vie see it, the
rulers of Pakistan would wish the refugee problem in India to
result in an aggravation of social tension and religious
strife. They probably have a vested interest in this.
Until the 12th May, 1971, the number of fugitives
who were registered on their crossing the border into India
was 23, 28, 507. We believe that there is a fair number who
have avoided registration. Refugees still continue to pour
that the rate of about fifty thousand a day. We are doing
our utmost to look after them. But there is 0 limit is
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This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to 2. be declassified
DECLASSIFIED
PRIME MINISTER
or 2 000
our capacity and resources. Even the attempt to provide
minimum facilities of shelter, food and medical care is
imposing an enormous burden on us. The rains have begun
in the Eastern zegion and soon the fury of the monsoon
will be unleashed and vastly complicate the problem of
providing shelter to the evacuees. Apparently, Pakistan
is trying to solve its internal problems by cutting down
the size of its population in East Bengal and changing
its communal composition through an organised and selective
programme of eviction; but it is India that has to take the
brunt of this.
In this grim situation, I feel I am entitled to
deek the advice of all friendly Governments on how they
would wish us to deal with the problem. As far as we
are concerned, Pakistan's claim that normalcy has been
estored in East Bengal cannot carry conviction until 18
is able to stop this daily flow of its ci izens across
the border and the nearly three million refugees who are
a Iready here begin to go back with some assurance of their
future safety.
The regions which the refugees are entering are
over-crowded and politically the most sensitive parts of
India. The situation in these areas can very easily
Bocome explosive. The influx of refugees thus constitutes
a grave security risk which no responsible government can
11ow to develop.
We are convinced that the loyalty of a people to
8 State cannot be enforced at gun-point. Through their
recent elections the overwhelming majority of the people
of East Bengal expressed their adherence to the concepts
of nationalism and democracy. Since the expressed will
of the people is being stifled, extremist political
lements will inevitably gain ground. With our own
difficulties in West Bengal the dangers of a link-up
between the extremists in the two Bengals are real. If
our assessment is different, I should be glad to have
the benefit of your views.
I believe that the Government of the United States
of America is interested in the peace and stability of the
lub-continent and its evolution abng democratic lines. I
ave no, dount that yel roduced at the Richard Nixth Library to the long- term
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naisser
PRIME MINISTER
in 3 are
consequences of the events in East Bengal. In the meantime,
It is our earnest hope that the Government of the United
States of America will impress upon the rulers of pakistan
that they owe a duty towards their own citizens whom they
have treated so callously and forced to seek refuge in a
foreign country.
It is also our earnest hope that the power and
prestige of the United States will be used to persuade the
military rulers of Pakistan to recognize that the solution
they have chosen for their problem in East Pakistan is
unwise and untenable.
The people of India, including all political parties,
are deeply concerned with the personal safety of Sheikh
Mujibur Rahman who is in the custody of the Government of
Pakistan according to their own announcement. If you
consider sending any message to the President of Pakistan,
we would appreciate your taking up this matter with him.
We are all delighted to hear of your daughter's
engagement and wish her and her fiance the very best.
With kind regards,
Yours sincerely,
(Indira
India Gandhi) Lanth
His Excellency Mr. Richard Nixon,
President of the United States of America,
Washington.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive DECLASSIFIED Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
FRESIDENI ) HOUSE,
RAWALPINDI.
From: General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan,
H. Pk., H.J. ,
7106999
President of Pakistan
17 April 1971
Dear Mr President,
In my pre-occupation with events and developments
at home, I have not SO far been able to acknowledge your
letter of March 3, 1971, with which I received a copy of
your valuable and comprehensive report to the Congress of
the United States on American Foreign Policy. I take thi
opportunity of thanking you for your letter and for your
very kind expression of sympathy for me and the people of
Pakistan in this hour of crisis. I share your hope,
Mr E resident, that, with the restoration of normal
conditions in East Pakistan, saner councils in that
province will emerge to assist in the resumption of the
interrupted task of democratic processes and a peaceful
transfer of power to the elected representatives of the
people.
I trust that you have had an opportunity of seeing
the message which I had instructed my Ambassador in
Washington to convey to you on March 30, 1971. I am
conscious of the pressure of public opinion in the United
States much of it based on unauthenticated, and in some
cases biased, reports inspired by the Indian Government
which has created an impression quite different from the
true S Reptoduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library. No one is more pained
DECLASSIFIED
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than am the events leadina to the
- 2 -
breakdown of law and order in East Pakistan. During the
eleven days which I spent in Dacca last month, my efforts
were directed solely towards the achievement of a workable
constitutional arrangement which would ensure the integrity,
sovereignty and progress of Pakistan. It is indeed tragic
that my efforts were thwarted by a group of unpatriotic
elements.
In order to acquaint you more fully with the back-
ground of the events of the last three months, following the
general elections and with my plans for the future, I am
sending Mr M. M. Ahmad, my Adviser for Economic Affairs, to
Washington to convey to you personally all relevent
information. I hope you will be good enough to find the time
to receive him and provide him the opportunity to explain to
you my present endeavours and future plans.
At this time of painful and anguished crisis in
Pakistan, I am deeply gratified that your Government has made
it clear, to all those who have raised the question, that
the United States recognises the current events in East
Pakistan as an internal affair, for whose solution the
responsibility rests with the Government of Pakistan.
May I avail of this opportunity, Mr President, of
expressing to you my appreciation of the understanding ar 1
cooperation which we have received from your Administration,
especially from your esteemed Secretary for State, the
Hon'ble Mr william DECLASSIFIED and the Library officials of his
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- 3 -
I am happy to know also that the alternative arrange-
ments which we made for the evacuation of American nationals
from Dacca by Pakistan International Airlines, as a
substitute for the requested use of United States Air Force
aircraft, were so readily accepted and that these arrange-
ments have been satisfactorily completed.
In conclusion, may I reiterate what I said in my
letter of March 30 that it continues to be my endeavour to
resume the interrupted process of transferring power to the
elected representatives of the people at the very earliest
date. Now that the situation in East Pakistan is rapidly
returning to normalcy, I intend to announce shortly, as a
first step, my plan for the induction of provincial
governments on the basis of elections held in December. It
is my earnest hope that this will create appropriate
conditions to enable me to proceed to the next stage of
dealing with the constitutional issues at the national level.
hitt barmet personal Regal
Sincerely
His Excellency Mr Richard M. Nixon,
President of the United States of America,
The White House,
WASHINGTON, Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ACTION
28895
28913
@
SECRET
May 28, 1971
MEMORANDUM FOR GENERAL HAIG
FROM:
Samuel M. Hoskinson
SUBJECT:
Letter to Yahya
Attached is the memo to the President you requested to set
the record straight on the Yahya letter. Hopefully, we are
now at the end of this saga!
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
May 25, 1971
MEMORANDUM
TO: MRS. JEANNE W. DAVIS
JOHN MURPHY
ELL BRAGAN, Senior Watch Officer, Sit Room
FROM: L. G. L. ROBERTSON
SUBJ: Disposition of article 7106999 (subj) letters
7107481
to Indian Prime Minister Gandhi and Pakistan Presi-
dent Yahya Khan
Per Mrs. Davis' instructions, the "original"
and two copies delivered to Sam Hoskinson.
Enclosed copy FYI.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
INFORMATION
28895
SECRET
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
Henry A. Kissinger
SUBJECT:
Letter to Yahya
About the same time you signed the letter to President Yahya, you
received a letter from him. He thanks you for your last letter,
reaffirms his "resolve to transfer power to a civilian government at
the earliest possible" moment and indicates that he recognizes the
seriousness of the refugee problem. Most of his letter, however, is
a long narrative blaming his problems on India. (See attached)
In view of this development, I amended the beginning of your letter
to indicate that you had received Yahya's latest message and appre-
ciated having his views. The substantive portion of your letter remains
the same and very much to the point.
Your letters to both Yahya and Mrs. Gandhi were cabled immediately
to Islamabad and New Delhi so that they might have the maximum impact
on the Indo-Pakistani situation.
SECRET
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28895
FROM: General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan
H. Pk., H. J.
PRESIDENT'S HOUSE,
RAWALPINDI.
May 24, 1971
Dear Mr. President,
I appreciate greatly the constructive and
friendly contents of your letter of May 7, 1971. I am
also grateful to you for receiving Mr. M.M. Ahmed and
listening to him on my behalf. He has informed me of the
courtesy and the understanding shown to him by you
personally and by your colleagues, particularly Secretary
Rogers and Dr. Kissinger.
2.
I greatly value and welcome the sentiments of
friendship and assurance of your personal port for the
renewal of our national development effort ar a the
resumption of normal economic activity throug hout Pakistan.
This is characteristic of your Government's 1 eadiness to
come to our assistance whenever needed.
3.
It is also a matter of great satisfaction for us
to know of your sympathetic comprehension of our manifold
problems and difficulties. In particular, it is gratifying
to learn that you share our view that it is to no one's
advantage to permit the situation in East Palistan to be
internationalised and that any foreign intervention in
this situation could create new problems and compound the
difficulty of securing an ultimate settlement.
4.
I take this opportunity, Mr. President,
to reaffirm my resolve to transfer power to { civilian
government at the earliest possible. For this purpose,
I have initiated, once again, consultations with political
leaders and elected representatives of the people and
I hope to announce at an early date the outlines of my
further plans. I have no doubt in my mind that with
...
2
/
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DECLASSIFIED
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FROM: General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan
H. Pk., H. J.
PRESIDENT'S HOUSE,
RAWALPINDI.
- 2 -
the support of the responsible leadership in the country,
we would be able to resolve the present constitutional
impasse.
5.
Mr. President, our plans for national reconstruction
cannot materialise so long as India follows a policy of
open and constant interference in our internal affairs. It
was not a matter of mere coincidence that the present crisis
in Indo-Pakistan relations started when Pakistan was at the
threshold of ushering in a democratically elected government.
By arranging a hijacking incident, India sought justification
for its decision to bann overflights of our aircraft.. Thus,
a situation was created which not only imposed a heavy
financial burden on Pakistan but also made the task of a
political settlement between the two wings of our country
more difficult. Thereafter, India has persistently attacked
the sovereignty and integrity of Pakistan. The secessionist
elements in East Pakistan were encouraged and assisted by
India. The Indian Parliament, in an unprecedented move.
officially extended sympathy and support to these clements.
The question of "recognising" the rebellious movement has
also been under consideration of the Indian Government.
Infiltrators and saboteurs from across the border have
violated our territory and indulged in activities to dislocate
and destroy East Pakistan's economic and industrial life,
including the vital communications system.
6.
It is most unfortunate that due to disturbed
conditions and for other reasons, a large number of people
left their homes in East Pakistan and crossed into India.
Their migration has created a human problem which should be
3
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DECLASSIFIED
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FROM: General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan
H. Pk.,H.J.
PRESIDENT'S HOUSE,
RAWALPINDI.
- 3 -
treated as such. There is no justification whatsoever for
exploiting human misery for political gains. I have,
therefore, in a public statement urged the law abiding
citizens of East Pakistan who were compelled to migrate,
to return to their homes and resume their normal duties.
They would not only be welcome but would be afforded necessary
protection and assistance by my Government.
7.
I am afraid, however, that I cannot extend a
welcome to those persons who committed murders, indulged
in rape and arson, destroyed private and public properties
and looted Government treasuries and food stores. No
Government can condone such crimes against the people and
the State.
8.
Mr. President, it hardly needs reiteration that
the problem of our relations with India is a major factor
in the processes leading to the early resumption of normal
life and economic reconstruction in East Pakistan. It is
not only in regard to the refugee problem but also in respect
of the banning of overflights, encouragement to infiltrators
and anti-state elements, and other such matters, that India
must exercise restraint and adopt a constructive approach.
If Mrs. Indra Gandhi could be persuaded to show a more
helpful attitude, there is no reason why the political
climate of the sub-continent should not register an
immediate and welcome improvement. Such a development is
most desirable from our view point as this would enable us
to devote all our attention and energies to tackling
various problems including the question of refugees which
demand immediate solution.
4 /
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
FROM: General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan
H. Pk., H.J.
PRESIDENT'S HOUSE,
RAWALPINDI.
- 4 -
9.
As I have stated above, the refugees pose a
human problem which has to be settled on that basis.
At the same time I feel that it is not an isolated
development and stems from other issues which I have
mentioned in the preceding paragraphs. Any initiative,
Mr. President, that you might find possible to take in
solving the refugee problem and the related issues
would be an act of historical significance.
With warm personal regards,
Yours sincerely,
Hyabyh
His Excellency
Mr. Richard M. Nixon
President of the United States of America
WASHINGTON
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DOC
RECD
LOG NBR
INITIAL ACTION OFF
MO DA
MO DA HR
NSC CORRESPONDENCE PROFILE
05
28
05
28
288,5 588 5
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LOG IN/OUT ONLY
TO: PRES
FROM: ELIOT
U
NO FORN
NODIS
ROGERS, W
LOU
EXDIS
DOC SOURCE/CLASS/DESCRIPTION
HAIG KISSINGER X
BUO
LAIRD, M
C
EYES ONLY
LIMDIS
SAUNDERS
S
X
CODE WORD
RES DATA
SUBJECT:
Responded to May n4 th TS from SENSITIVE Tahya
REFERENCE: S/S
OTHER
NOT XEROXED
APP'TS: PRES
HAK
TALKER
MEMCON
DATE REQ.
INTERNAL ROUTING AND DISTRIBUTION
ACTION REQUIRED
ACTION
INFO
REC
MEMO FOR HAK
CY
(
)
ADVANCE CYS TO HAK/HAIG
FOR
MEMO FOR PRES.
(
)
STAFF SECRETARY
REPLY FOR
SIGNATURE
(
)
FAR EAST
)
SECRETARIAT DISTRIBUTION/ACTION
De
FOR DISTRIBUTION/DISPATCH
(
AFRICA
memo
TO
(
)
NR EAST/NORTH AFRICA
RECOMMENDATIONS
(
)
EUROPE/CANADA
JOINT MEMO
(
)
LATIN AMERICA
REFER TO STATE
(
)
UNITED NATIONS
ANY ACTION NECESSARY
(
)
ECONOMIC
CONCURRENCE
(
)
SCIENTIFIC
DUE DATE:
LR PLANNING
COMMENTS: (Including Special Instructions)
PROGRAM ANALYSIS
NSC PLANNING
CONGRESSIONAL
DATE
SAIN
FROM
TO
S
CY TO
05/28
HA16
X Sign ACTION REQUIRED Mimo to Pris 0601
INTERNAL/INTERIM ROUTING
5/28
Noted ly HAIS /neno NOT forwarded to Pres
MICROFILM DATA
CROSS REF WITH
NOTIFY
DATE
SEE LOG
DISPATCH: LETTER/MEMO
DO
Non
INIT
DISPOSITION
JOINED BY LOG
COPIES: (AS MARKED above)
6/1
DATE
SPECIAL FILE RQMT:
SA,
HP,
HM
ORIG)
NSC
special DISPOSITION COMMENTS:
TO )
PAF
WHC
suspense CY ATTACHED: YES
NO
SUBF
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
* GPO: 1971-412-412
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
IMMEDIATE
28913
EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN
2315 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20008
May 27, 1971
AMBASSADOR OF PAKISTAN
Dear Mr Saunders,
-
-
Herewith a letter just received from
President Yahya Khan for delivery to President Nixon.
I would be grateful if you would be kind enough to
reach it to its high destination immediately.
With warm regards.
Yours sincerely,
( A. Kilaly Hilaly )
Mr Harold Saunders,
Room No. 386, Executive Office Building,
The White House
Washington D.C.
:
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
FROM: General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan
11. Pk., H.).
PRESIDENT'S HOUSE
RAWALPINDI.
May24,1971
Dear Mr. President,
I appreciategreatly the constructive and
friendly contents of your letter of May 7, 1971. I am
also grateful to you for receiving Mr. M.M. Ahmed and
listening to him on my behalf. He has informed me of the
courtesy and the understanding shown to him by you
-
personally and by your colleagues, particularly Secretary
Rogers and Dr. Kissinger.
2.
I greatly value and welcome the sentiments of
friendship and assurance of your personal support for the
renewal of our national development effort and the
resumption of normal economic activity throughout Pakistan.
This is characteristic of your Government's readiness to
come to our assistance whenever needed.
3.
It is also a matter of great satisfaction for us
to know of your sympathetic comprehension of our manifold
problems and difficulties. In particular, it is gratifying
to learn that you share our view that it is to no one's
advantage to permit the situation in East Pakistan to be
internationalised and that any foreign intervention in
this situation could create new problems and compound the
difficulty of securing an ultimate settlement.
4.
I take this opportunity, Mr. President,
to reaffirm my resolve to transfer power to a civilian
government at the earliest possible. For this purpose,
I have initiated, once again, consultations with political
leaders and elected representatives of the people and
I hope to announce at an early date the outlines of my
further plans. I have no doubt in my mind that with
2
/
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
FROM: General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan
H. Pk., H. J.
PRESIDENT'S HOUSE,
RAWALPINDI.
- 2 -
the support of the responsible leadership in the country,
we would be able to resolve the present constitutional
impasse.
5.
Mr. President, our plans for national reconstruction
cannot materialise so long as India follows a policy of
open and constant interference in our internal affairs. It
was not a matter of mere coincidence that the present crisis
in Indo-Pakistan relations started when Pakistan was at the
threshold of ushering in a democratically elected government.
By arranging a hijacking incident, India sought justification
for its decision to bann overflights of our aircraft. Thus,
a situation was created which not only imposed a heavy
financial burden on Pakistan but also made the task of a
political settlement between the two wings of our country
more difficult. Thereafter, India has persistently attacked
the sovereignty and integrity of Pakistan. The secessionist
elements in East Pakistan were encouraged and assisted by
India. The Indian Parliament, in an unprecedented move.
officially extended sympathy and support to these clements.
The question of "recognising" the rebellious movement has
also been under consideration of the Indian Government.
Infiltrators and saboteurs from across the border have
violated our territory and indulged in activities to dislocate
and destroy East Pakistan's economic and industrial life,
including the vital communications system.
6.
It is most unfortunate that due to disturbed
conditions and for other reasons, a large number of people
left their homes in East Pakistan and crossed into India.
Their migration has created a human problem which should be
3 /
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
FROM: General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan
H. Pk., H. J.
PRESIDENT'S HOUSE,
RAWALPINDI.
- 3 -
treated as such. There is no justification whatsoever for
exploiting human misery for political gains. I have,
therefore, in a public statement urged the law abiding
citizens of East Pakistan who were compelled to migrate,
to return to their homes and resume their normal duties.
-
They would not only be welcome but would be afforded necessary
protection and assistance by my Government.
7.
I am afraid, however, that I cannot extend a
welcome to those persons who committed murders, indulged
in rape and arson, destroyed private and public properties
and looted Government treasuries and food stores. No
Government can condone such crimes against the people and
the State.
8.
Mr. President, it hardly needs reiteration that
the problem of our relations with India is a major factor
in the processes leading to the early resumption of normal
life and economic reconstruction in East Pakistan. It is
not only in regard to the refugee problem but also in respect
of the banning of overflights, encouragement to infiltrators
and anti-state elements, and other such matters, that India
must exercise restraint and adopt a constructive approach.
If Mrs. Indra Gandhi could be persuaded to show a more
helpful attitude, there is no reason why the political
climate of the sub-continent should not register an
immediate and welcome improvement. Such a development is
most desirable from our view point as this would enable us
to devote all our attention and energies to tackling
various problems including the question of refugees which
demand immediate solution.
4 /
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
FROM: General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan
*
H. Pk., H. J.
PRESIDENT'S HOUSE,
run
RAWALPINDI.
- 4 -
9.
As I have stated above, the refugees pose a
human problem which has to be settled on that basis.
At the same time I feel that it is not an isolated
development and stems from other issues which I have
mentioned in the preceding paragraphs. Any initiative,
Mr. President, that you might find possible to take in
solving the refugee problem and the related issues
would be an act of historical significance.
With warm personal regards,
Yours sincerely,
Hyabyh
His Excellency
Mr. Richard M. Nixon
President of the United States of America
WASHINGTON
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DOC
RECD
NBR
INITIAL ACTION OFF
MO
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MO DA HR
NSC CORRESPONDENCE PROFILE
5
27
5 29 10
289
TO: PRES X
U x
LOG IN/OUT ONLY
FROM: ELIOT
NO FORN
NODIS
KISSINGER
ROGERS, W
LOU
BUO
EXDIS
DOC SOURCE/CLASS/DESCRIPTION
HAIG
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EYES ONLY
LIMDIS
HILALY yaly. LAIRD, M
S
CODE WORD
RES DATA
SUBJECT:
ya Iya Kla's Response to Pres LTR TS re Setuation sensitive i Parcata
REFERENCE: S/S
OTHER
NOT XEROXED
APP'TS: PRES
HAK
TALKER
MEMCON
DATE REQ.
INTERNAL ROUTING AND DISTRIBUTION
ACTION REQUIRED
ACTION
INFO
REC
MEMO FOR HAK
CY
(
)
ADVANCE CYS TO HAK/HAIG
FOR
MEMO FOR PRES.
(
)
STAFF SECRETARY
REPLY FOR
SIGNATURE
(
)
FAR EAST
are
FOR DISTRIBUTION/DISPATCH
(
)
SECRETARIAT DISTRIBUTION/ACTION
SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA
X
MEMO
TO
(
)
NR EAST/NORTH AFRICA
RECOMMENDATIONS
(
)
EUROPE/CANADA
JOINT MEMO
(
)
LATIN AMERICA
REFER TO STATE
(
)
UNITED NATIONS
ANY ACTION NECESSARY
(
)
ECONOMIC
CONCURRENCE
(
)
SCIENTIFIC
DUE DATE:
LR PLANNING
COMMENTS: (Including Special Instructions)
PROGRAM ANALYSIS
NSC PLANNING
original "Probably will WN pertleha
CONGRESSIONAL
DATE
FROM
TO
S
ACTION REQUIRED
CY TO
24 May
Huskinson
Sec.
Action already completed under memo
HAK to ves. # 28895 and original
with this memo.
INTERNAL/INTERIM ROUTING
CROSS REF WITH
NOTIFY
DATE
SEE LOG
DISPATCH: LETTER/MEMO
DO
MICROFILM Tom DATA
DISPOSITION
JOINED BY LOG
COPIES: (AS MARKED ABOVE)
SPECIAL FILE RQMT:
SA,
HP,
HM
JUN ORIG) 031971 DATE INIT NSC
SPECIAL DISPOSITION COMMENTS:
TO )
PAF
WHC
SUSPENSE CY ATTACHED:
YES
NO
SUBF
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
* GPO: 1971-412-412
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
WH
*
EXCES
Department of State
UNITED STATES OF AMOUNT
TELEGRAM
SECRET 498
PAGE 01 STATE 095111
82
SITUATION ROOM
WHITE HOUSE
'71 MAY 29 AM 9:07
2
ORIGIN SS-45
INFO OCT-01 1046 R
66642
DRAFTED BY : NEA/PAF: WFSPENGLER
APPROVED BY: NEAS CVANHOLLEN
S/S: MR CURRAN
TEXT OF LETTER RECEIVED FROM WHITEI HOUSE.
119878
P 282310Z MAY 71
FM SECSTATE WASHDC
TO AMEMBASSY ISLAMABAD PRIORITY
INFO AMEMBASSY NEW DELHI PRIORITY
AMCONSUL DACCA
USMISSION USUN NY
AMEMBASSY BANGKOK
S E C R E T STATE 095111
EXDIS
BANGKOK PLEASE DELIVER TO AMBASSADOR JOSEPH So FARLAND
SUBJ: LETTER FROM PRESIDENT NIXON TO PRESIDENT YAHYA
1. EMBASSY SHOULD DELIVER TO PRESIDENT YAHYA AS SOON
AS POSSIBLE FOLLOWING TEXT OF LETTER DATED MAY 28 FROM
PRESIDENT NIXON REPLYING TO LETTER FROM PRESIDENT YAHYA
DATED MAY 24 RECEIVED WHITE HOUSE EVENING MAY 27 (TEXT OF
LATTER BEING SENT BY SEPTEL). FYI: LETTER FROM
PRESIDENT NIXON ORIGINALLY KEYED TO YAHYAIS LETTERI OF
APRIL 17 PRESENTED PERSONALLY BY M.M. AHMAD MAY 10
(STATE 839471, REVISED TO RESPOND ALSOOTO LETTER OF
MAY 24. LETTER FROM PRESIDENT NIXON TO PRIMIN GANDHI
BEING SENT SIMULTANEOUSLY, END FYI.
2. BEGIN TEXT:
MAY 28, 1971
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED Reproduced OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DEPARTMENT
OF
STATE
THE
PNEROBISYLIOM
*
Department of State
UNITED STATES OF AMOUNT
TELEGRAM
SECRET
EXCES EXPIS EXCE
PAGE 02 STATE 095111
DEAR MR. PRESIDENT:
YOUR LETTER OF MAY 24 WAS OF VERY GREAT INTEREST TO ME.
THE SITUATION IN THE SUBCONTINENT HAS BEEN MUCH ON MY
MIND AND IT IS MOST USEFUL TO HAVE YOUR VIEWS. AMBASSADOR
FARLAND HAS ALSO SENT ME A FULL REPORT OF HIS RECENT CON-
VERSATION WITH YOU AND THIS, ALONG WITH OUR DISCUSSIONS:
WITH MR. M.M. AHMAD, HAS GIVEN US A BETTER UNDERSTANDING
OF THE PROBLEMS YOU ARE FACING.
I AM PLEASED TO KNOW THAT YOU FOUND MY LETTER SATISFACTORY
AND THAT YOU HAVE RESPONDED so POSITIVELY TO SUGGESTIONS
WE HAVE MADE IN AN EFFORT TO BE HELPFUL IN THESE DIFFICULT
CIRCUMSTANCES. IN THAT SAME SPIRIT OFFFRIENDSHIP AND
UNDERSTANDING, I WISH TO INFORM YOU OF OUR PRESENT VIEWS
AND CONCERNS.
LET ME SAY FIRST THAT I WAS GRATIFIED TO LEARN OF YOUR
STATESMANLIKE DECISION TO ACCPT FORMALLY THEI ASSISTANCE OF
THE UNITED NATIONS IN ORGANIZING AN INTERNATIONAL
HUMANITARIAN RELIEF EFFORT FOR THE PEOPLE OFI EAST PAKI-
STAN AND OF YOUR LETTER TO SECRETARY GENERALIU THANT CON-
FIRMING THAT DECISION I HAVE ALSO NOTED WITH SATIS-
FACTION YOUR PUBLIC DECLARATION OFI AMNESTY FOR THE
REFUGEES AND COMMITMENT TO TRANSFER POWER TO ELECTEDI
REPRESENTATIVES. I AM CONFIDENT THAT YOU WILLI TURN THESE
STATEMENTS INTO REALITY.
I FEEL SURE YOU WILL AGREE WITH MEI THAT THE FIRST
ESSENTIAL STEP IS TO BRING AN END TO THE CIVILI STRIFE
AND RESTORE PEACEFUL CONDITIONS IN EAST PAKISTAN® THENI
FULL-SCALE EFFORTS CAN GO FORWARD WITHIN AN INTERNATIONAL
FRAMEWORK TO HELP YOUR GOVERNMENT PROVIDE RELIEF
ASSISTANCE TO THE PEOPLE WHO NEED IT. IN THIS RESPECT,
WE ARE PARTICULARLY CONCERNED ABOUT THE PEOPLE OF THE
COASTAL AREA WHO WERE AFFECTED BY THE CYCLONIC DISASTERI
LAST NOVEMBER. THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES AND OTHER
FRIENDLY COUNTRIES, AND INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS, HAVE
ENDEAVORED TO ASSIST THESE PEOPLE IN THE PAST, AND I CAN
ASSURE YOU THAT MY GOVERNMENT AND COUNTRYMEN ARE ALREADY
PREPARED NOT ONLY TO RESUME HUMANITARIAN RELIEF EFFORTS
IN THIS SPECIAL AREA BUT TO EXTEND THEM TO THE REST OF
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED W Reproduced HOUT at THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DEPARTMENT
OF
STATE
Department of State
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
TELEGRAM
EXQIC EXPIS
SECRET
PAGE 03 STATE 095111
EAST PAKISTAN UNDER THE AEGIS OF THE UNITED NATIONS IN
ACCORDANCE WITH ARRANGEMENTS NOW UNDER DISCUSSION.
WHILE THIS IS BEING DONE, IT WILL OF COURSE BE ESSENTIAL
TO ENSURE THAT TENSIONS IN THE REGION AS A WHOLE DO NOT
INCREASE TO THE POINT OF INTERNATIONALI CONFLICT. I WOULD
BE LESS THAN CANDID IF I DID NOT EXPRESS MY DEEP CONCERN
OVER THE POSSIBILITY THAT THE SITUATION THERE MIGHT
ESCALATE TO THAT DANGER POINT. I BELIEVE, THEREFORE,
THAT IT IS ABSOLUTELY VITALIFOR THE MAINTENANCE OF PEACE
IN THE SUBCONTINENT TO RESTORE CONDITIONS IN EAST PAKISTAN
CONDUCIVE TO THE RETURN OF REFUGEES FROMI. INDIAN TERRITORY
AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE. I URGE YOU TO CONTINUE TO
EXERCISE RESTRAINT BOTH ALONG YOUR BORDERS WITH INDIA AND
IN YOUR GENERAL RELATIONS WITH THAT COUNTRY. WE AREI
COUNSELING THE GOVERNMENT OF INDIA TO DO THEI SAME.
IT IS ONLY IN A PEACEFUL ATMOSPHERE THAT YOU AND YOUR
ADMINISTRATION CAN MAKE EFFECTIVE PROGRESS TOWARD THE
POLITICAL ACCOMMODATION YOU seek IN EAST PAKISTAN. YOU
EXPIS EXPIC
HAVE MY HEARTFELT WISHES FOR SUCCESS IN ACHIEVING THAT
MUCH DESIRED OBJECTIVE.
WITH WARM PERSONAL REGARDS'
SINCERELY,
/S/ RICHARD NIXON
HIS EXCELLENCY
GENERAL AGHA MUHAMMAD YAHYA KHAN
PRESIDENT OF PAKISTAN
PRESIDENT'S HOUSE
RAWALPINDI END TEXT.
3. WE CONTINUE BELIEVE EXCHANGE OF PRESIDENTIALILETTERS
THIS GENERAL SUBJECT SHOULD BE KEPT CONFIDENTIAL" AND
AGREE WITH POSITION TAKEN BY EMBASSY ON POINT RE EXCHANGE
EARLIER THIS MONTH (PARA 6 ISLAMABAD 50861. WE DO NDT
INTEND PUBLICIZE FOREGOING LETTER AND DESIRE GOP NOT
RELEASE. ROGERS
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Department of State
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
TELEGRAM
SECRET 078
EXPIS EXPIS EXPIS EXPIS
PAGE 01 STATE 095358
82
ORIGIN SS-45
SITUATION
INFO OCT-01 1046 R
WHITE HOUSE
'71 MAY 30 AM 9:44
66643
DRAFTED BY: NEACVANHOLLEN
APPROVED BY: NEAs CHRISTOPHER VAN HOLLEN
NEA/PAF MR SPENGLER
NEA/INC: MR SCHNEIDER
S/S-O:SEFRY
126091
R 292243Z MAY 71
FM SECSTATE WASHDC
TO AMEMBASSY ISLAMABAD
INFO AMEMBASSY BANGKOK
AMEMBASSY NEW DELHI
AMCONSUL DACCA
USMISSION USUN NY
SECRE T STATE 095358
EXDIS
FOR CHARGE
BANGKOK FOR AMBASSADOR FARLAND
SUBJECT: LETTER FROM PRESIDENT YAHYA TO PRESIDENT NIIXON
REF: ISLAMABAD 5317
AS YOU WILL HAVE NOTED, PRESIDENT NIXON'S REPLY TO YAHYA'S
LETTERS OF APRIL 17 AND MAY 24 (STATE 095111) SIGNED AND TRANSMITTED
PRIOR TO RECEIPT OF REFTEL HOWEVER, NUMBER OF YOUR SUGESTIONS
ALREADY INCORPORATED IN PRESIDENT'S REPLY. WE WILL GIVE ACTIVE
CONSIDERATION TO YOUR OTHER SUGGESTIONS, INCLUDING POSSIBILITY
OF EXPANDED ROLEI FOR UN ON BOTH SIDES OF INDIAN-EAST PAKISTAN
BORDER TO DEAL WITH REFUGEE PROBLEM. GP-3' ROGERS
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
6
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
30026
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 1, 1971
Dear Mr. President:
Thank you for your two recent messages expressing your
concern over indications of a mounting threat to peace in
the sub-continent and stressing the importance of clarifying
the stance of Aid-to-Pakistan Consortium countries toward
future economic assistance to Pakistan.
I am very pleased that Dr. Kissinger will have an opportunity
to discuss with you in Islamabad a number of questions that
concern us both. He will deliver to you this letter responding
to both of your recent messages.
Your message of June 18 conveying your apprehension of
a growing threat to the peace of your region of the world has
received my most serious consideration. This trend is of
grave concern to all friends of Pakistan and India alike, and
I sincerely trust that any such development can be averted
through the exercise of good will and the forebearance by all
concerned.
As you know, Foreign Minister Singh recently visited this
country. He reflected deep concern over the rising refugee
problem India faces and the burden which this problem is
placing on the Indian economy and people. It remains our
earnest hope that you and your government will succeed in
your efforts to enable these refugees to return to their homes.
For our part, we continue to urge the Government of India to
exercise restraint, as we have in our discussions with you.
Your several recent statements welcoming the return to
East Pakistan of all the refugees irrespective of caste,
creed or religion and promising them full protection provide
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
-2-
a necessary foundation along with the steps you have taken
to facilitate their return and rehabilitation. We recognize,
too, the significance of your initiative in seeking the
assistance of the United Nations High Commissioner for
Refugees. Your address to your countrymen on June 28
setting forth the framework within which you propose to
proceed in restoring constitutional government and return-
ing political power to the elected representatives of your
people is also an important step.
The misunderstanding that has arisen over the meeting of
the Aid-to-Pakistan Consortium in Paris on June 21 is
regrettable, and the anxiety which it has caused in your
country understandable. I sympathize with the statement
you made in your address of June 28 disapproving of
foreign aid if political strings are attached.
The Consortium meeting was an informal one. No decisions
with respect to economic aid to Pakistan were sought, and
none were reached. Furthermore, a common position was
not developed whereby all members of the Consortium
would jointly suspend future aid or withhold already com-
mitted assistance. The Consortium members are now
awaiting the final reports of the World Bank and Fund
Missions and also the completion by your government of
a revised national development plan. As soon as resumption
of national development programs is possible, we expect
that a formal meeting of the Consortium, with Pakistani
participation, will be called to review new aid requirements.
We wish to proceed with new agreements, subject to U.S.
legislative criteria, as soon as adequate grounds are
established for a resumption of economic development
throughout Pakistan. In the meantime, we are extending
new humanitarian relief aid to East Pakistan within the
framework of the UN-coordinated program, and are urging
others to contribute as well.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
-3-
Please continue to let me know of any ways in which you
feel we can help promote our common interests in safe-
guarding the peace of your region and the welfare of its
people.
With personal regards,
Sincerely,
Richard nifor
His Excellency
General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan
President of Pakistan
President's House
Rawalpindi, Pakistan
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ACTION
30026
29768
SECRET
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
Brigadier General Alexander M. Haig, Jr.
SUBJECT: Letter to President Yahya
You have received two lettersfrom President Yahya in recent days:
--On June 18, he wrote to call your attention to "the rapidly
mounting threat to peace and stability in the subcontinent"
[Tab B]. He alleged that the Indians have "spared no effort to
exploit" the refugee problem as an instrument to impose the
Government of India's choice on East Pakistan" and voiced
concern that Indian "threats" could lead to a conflict. He
closed by requesting you "to use your influence with India to
persuade her to desist from actions, which could lead not only
to a breach of the peace but, as a result of that, to unforeseen
consequences which could affect the world community."
On June 28, Yahya wrote again; this time to voice his concern
about the results of the recent informal consortium meeting of
economic aid donors. He seemed to be particularly upset about
reports that a decision had been made to withhold aid as a
pressure tactic to promote a political settlement in East Pakistan.
Yahya specifically asked you to "prevent the present ambiguity
and misunderstanding from becoming a source of further strains
in Pakistan's relations with the Western world" [Tab c].
At Tab A is a draft reply which Dr. Kissinger would give to President
Yahya. Its tone is friendly and reflects your desire to be helpful.
It recognizes the efforts President Yahya has made toward resolving
his problem in East Pakistan and wishes him success, noting that
resolution is important not only in lessening tension with India but in
providing a framework in which full economic development can resume.
RECOMMENDATION: That you sign the letter at Tab A so that it can
be taken to Dr. Kissinger for delivery.
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
lab
lab B
B
29768
EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN
2315 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20008
June 19, 1971
BASSADOR OF PAKISTAN
Dear Dr Kissinger,
I have just received telegraphically the enclosed
letter from my President addressed to His Excellency
President Richard M. Nixon.
I shall be grateful if you would transmit it to its high
destination immediately.
I am sending a copy of it to the Secretary of State also.
With my warm personal regards.
Yours sincerely,
Kildy.
(A. Hilaly )
The Honourable
Dr. Henry A. Kissinger
The White House
Washington D. C.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
Received by telegram from Islamabad dated June 18, 1971
Your Excellency:
I am addressing you to invite your attention to the rapidly
mounting threat to peace and security in the sub-continent. In the last
few days belligerent statements have been made by the Indian Prime
Minister and her Cabinet Ministers which amount to a threat of war. The
latest of these is a statement in the Indian Parliament by the Indian Prime
Minister on 15th June, relevant extracts of which are attached. It makes
it obvious that the speaker is determined to exploit the presence of dis-
placed persons in India to aggravate a tense situation and justify military
intervention in East Pakistan. Should Indian leaders be allowed to
continue on this course, consequences would be disastrous not only for
the sub-continent but for the entire region.
Notwithstanding the fact, that since independence Pakistan
has received millions of refugees from India, a large number of whom still
remain unsettled, the Indian Government has spared no effort at this
juncture to exploit the presence of Pakistani-displaced persons for a politi-
cal end. These persons should be enabled to return to their homes, and
my Government has taken adequate steps to ensure this. We have as you
must have learnt, associated the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees
to advise and assist us in implementation of this objective. The U.N. High
Commissioner, Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan, has personally visited some
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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Page 2.
of the reception centers we have established to welcome returning
displaced persons, and satisfied himself that adequate facilities exist
to receive them. Relief and rehabilitation arrangements within the
province of East Pakistan are also to be provided by the U.N. and a
representative of the Secretary-General has already reached Dacca to
co-ordinate activities in this field with the provincial government.
There is welcome news that thousands have already returned and more
would be doing so, if only India would stop discouraging and hindering
their return movement. It is most unfortunate that this humanitarian
question should be cynically turned into political propaganda by India,
and that the Indian Government should use the problem of the displaced
persons, as an instrument of pressure on Pakistan to impose a political
government of Indian choice in East Pakistan. No government could
yield to such blackmail.
As I have repeatedly stressed, war would solve nothing
and we do not want a conflict with India. It remains our earnest hope
that India will not resort to a conflict. The danger is that through
constant repetition of threats, Indian leaders may succeed in creating
an atmosphere and mood in their country which could inevitably lead to
a conflict. In recent days the Indian army has indulged in numerous
aggressive activities from across the border and there are confirmed
reports of increasing concentration of Indian forces. There have also
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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Page 3.
been reports by neutral observers of establishment of camps in India
to train saboteurs to infiltrate into East Pakistan.
Your Excellency, it is in this serious situation and in
the interest of preserving peace, that I would request you to use your
influence with India to persuade her to desist from actions, which
could lead not only to a breach of peace but as a result of that, to
:
unforeseen consequences which could affect the world community.
Your personal interest in the maintenance of peace
in the sub-continent and in the security and progress of Pakistan is
a very important factor to which I attach great importance. Now,
when considerable progress has been made on our side for receiving
back displaced persons, I find that Mrs. Gandhi is unfortunately not
willing to permit them to return to Pakistan, except in circumstances
of her own choosing. I am confident that your advice to her, not to
compound our difficulties, will make a profound difference to the
prevailing situation. I have also made a commitment to announce
my political plans for the country on 28th June. 1 But unless India is
restrained, my efforts would be seriously affected.
With my warm personal regards,
Yours sincerely,
His Excellency
A.M. Yahya Khan
Richard M. Nixoffroduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
Presi United Starticas xecutive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
EXCERPTS FROM LATEST STÁTEMENTS OF
INDIAN LEADERS ON THE EAST PAKISTAN
SITUATION.
Mrs Indira Gandhi said in the Parliament on June 15 " we
are not going to let international community get away without
sharing consequences of what is happening in Bangladesh.
Whether they help in finding a settlement of problem or not,
they will suffer from the consequences of events. Our Ministers
who have gone to various countries are informing them of
developments and their implications.
Mrs Gandhi who was replying to a debate on the subject
in the Rajyasabha said that if the international communit y had
exerted its influence at the proper time, a political settlement
could have been possible earlier. Now with each passing day,
possibility of such a settlement is becoming more remote.
The Indian Premier said, " India does not accept a political
settlement which may mean death of Bangladesh and democracy.
A settlement must be arrived at with those people who are
being supressed in Bangladesh" - The Premier also said, "we
our
have no intention of allowing refugees to settle down in L country
or to go back to Bangladesh to be butchered".
The Indian Foreign Minister Mr Swaran Singh told a press
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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- 2 -
conference at Ottawa on June 14 that "India cannot allow
itself to be overrun quietly by refugees from East Pakistan
if the international community does not take sufficient
interest in the problem. This influx poses a threat to India
and action may have to be taken". When asked whether he
was suggesting India might use force to alleviate the burden
he replied, "let us not talk about the use of force". He
suggested that foreign governments should cut off development
and military aid to Pakistan.
Mr Jaya Prakash Narayan told Mr Joseph J. Sisco,
Assistant Secretary of State at Washington on June 8, "if
peace and tranquality was to be restored in East Bengal,
President Yahya Khan's Government should be induced by the
big powers to release Mujibur Rahman and other leaders, withdraw
the army to the barracks and start negotiations with elected
representatives of people". His own view was that East Bengal
and their leaders would not settle for less than total
independence from-West-Pakistan
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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ISSUED BY THE
RESS RELEASE
EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20008
June 19, 1971.
"Members of the minority community should
have no hesitation in returning to their homes
in East Pakistan. They will be given full pro-
tection and every facility as they are equal citizens
of Pakistan and there is no question of any dis-
criminatory treatment" said President Yahya Khan
in a statement broadcast nation wide on the Pakistan
Radio on June 18.
Referring to his earlier appeals launched May 21,
and May 24, asking displaced persons to return home
the President said, "My appeal was addressed to all
Pakistani nationals irrespective of caste, creed or
religion".
The following is the full text of the President's
broadcast:
"On May 21, I issued a personal message to all
Pakistan nationals who had, due to various reasons,
gone to India to return to their homes in East Pakistan
and resume their normal activities. In my press
conference in Karachi on May 24, I reiterated my
earlier statement and assured displaced persons that
the necessary assistance would be provided to them
for their return and resettlement. It is gratifying
to note that despite hindrances put by interested
parties, many Pakistanis have returned and are now
on the way to their respective homes. I am certain
many more will follow them. As I said before, there
is no question of withholding permission to return
from our own citizens. In fact East Pakistan Govern-
ment has made adequate arrangements to receive them
and to extend full assistance in their rehabilitation.
My appeal was addressed to all Pakistani nationals
irrespective of caste, creed or religion. Members
of the minority community should have no hesitation
in returning to their homes in East Pakistan. They
will be given full protection and every facility as
they are equal citizens of Pakistan and there is no
question of any discriminatory treatment. I urge
them not to be misled by mischievious propaganda being
conducted from outside Pakistan."
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Tab C
30026
EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN
2315 massachusetts AVENUE, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20008
32ml
June 29, 1971.
ambassador OF pakistan
Dear Dr. Kissinger,
Herewith a letter from my President
addressed to President Nixon just telegraphed
to me. I will be grateful if you would be kind
enough to deliver it to the President.
With my warm personal regards,
Yours sincerely,
Kildy
( A. Hilaly)
The Honorable
Dr. Henry A. Kissinger,
The White House,
Washington, D.C.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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SECRET
EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN
2315 MASSACHUSETTS avenue, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20008
HER
AMBASSADOR OF pakistan
FULL TEXT OF PRESIDENT OF PAKISTAN'S
LETTER TO HIS EXCELLENCY PRESIDENT
RICHARD M. NIXON DATED JUNE 28, 1971.
Dear Mr. President,
I was greatly encouraged by report given to
me by Mr. M.M. Ahmed after his meeting with you in
Washington last month. I deeply appreciate your continuing
interest in our development and particularly your
assurance that United States would not wish to do anything
that would aggravate Pakistan's difficulties and
United States would like World Bank and other members
of Consortium to adopt a similar helpful posture.
2.
The proceedings of the informal meeting of
the Consortium held at Paris on 21st June have however
come to us as a disappointment. The official communique
issued after the meeting is bare and negative. The same
day British Broadcasting Corporation and New York Times
carried stories that the Consortium had decided to
withhold further aid to Pakistan until the Pakistan
Government reveals what sort of political settlement it
envisages for East Pakistan. The veracity of the
newspaper reports has been enhanced by a statement of
DECLASSIFIED
E.O. 13526, Section 3.5
NLN 8/21/2014
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
By NARA, Date 12/18/2014
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified.
OF
EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN
2315 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20008
AMBASSADOR OF pakistan
- 2 -
the British Foreign Secretary that "there can be no
question of new British aid to Pakistan until we have
firm evidence that real progress is being made towards
a political settlement".
3.
All these developments have led to a strong
and widespread public reaction in Pakistan. It is most
unfortunate that all this should have happened at this
juncture. It can only make more difficult the task of
a political settlement.
4.
In response to these developments I had no choice
but to declare in unequivocal terms in my broadcast of
today that external assistance with political strings
will be unacceptable to Pakistan.
5.
It is important that the general impression
about the present attitude of the Consortium countries
to Pakistan is fully clarified. The adjournment of the
Paris discussions without announcing a date to take up
our requirements is being interpreted as a consequence
of Indian pressure tactics.
6.
I hope Mr. President that in view of the
friendly relations between our two countries and your
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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declassified
86ip2a3
EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN
2315 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20008
$2/ml
491
AMBASSADOR OF pakistan
- 3 -
personal interest in Pakistan's integrity and well-being,
you will prevent the present ambiguity and misunderstanding
from becoming a source of further strains in Pakistan's
relations with the Western world. This is something
which we should in our joint interest try to prevent.
7.
Your sympathetic approach to the problems that
Pakistan is facing today and the understanding you have
shown of our efforts to resolve the crisis in East Pakistan
continue to be a source of strength to me. I hope
Mr. President that your personal interest and support in
this regard will be maintained.
With warm personal regards,
Yours sincerely,
A.M. Yahya Khan.
His Excellency
Richard M. Nixon,
President of the United States of America,
The White House,
Washington, D.C.
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P.
3
OF
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30026
department OF STATE
S/S 7109823
Washington, D.C. 20520
July 1, 1971
CONFIDENTIAL
MEMORANDUM FOR MR. HENRY A. KISSINGER
THE WHITE HOUSE
Subject: Letter from the President to President Yahya
Khan of Pakistan
The President on June 19 received through the Pakistan
Embassy here a telegraphic message dated June 18 from President
_89LbZ#
Yahya Khan of Pakistan conveying his concern over mounting tensions
in his country's relations with India and his fears of a threat to
the peace and security of the Indo-Pakistan Sub-continent. We
understand that similar messages were sent to leaders of a number
of other countries as part of President Yahya's continuing exchange
with them concerning the situation in his country and political
developments stemming from it.
On June 28 the President received a second telegraphic
message from President Yahya, stressing the importance of clarifying
30026
the attitude of Pakistan Consortium countries toward future economic
assistance to Pakistan and seeking the President's help in the matter.
A suggested reply covering both subjects is attached for your
consideration.
Rebruastro
Robert C. Brewster
Acting Executive Secretary
Attachment:
Suggested Letter.
CONFIDENTIAL
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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CONFIDENTIAL
SUGGESTED LETTER
Dear Mr. President:
I have received your telegraphic message of June 18 expressing
your concern over indications of a mounting threat to peace and
security in the sub-continent. I have also received your message
of June 29 stressing the importance of clarifying the stance of
Aid-to-Pakistan Consortium countries toward future economic assistance
to Pakistan and asking my help in this regard.
I am most pleased that you have agreed to receive a visit to
Islamabad by Dr. Henry Kissinger July 8-10 and to discuss with him
questions of mutual interest and concern. You are acquainted personally
with Dr. Kissinger and I feel sure you will have a constructive and
mutually beneficial exchange with him. I am asking him to deliver to
you this letter responding to both of your recent messages.
Your message of June 18 conveying your apprehension of a growing
threat to the peace of your region of the world has received my most
serious consideration. Such a trend would indeed be of grave concern
to all friends of Pakistan and India alike and I sincerely trust that
any such development can be averted through the exercise of good will
and restraint by all concerned.
His Excellency
General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan,
President of Pakistan,
President's House,
Rawalpindi, Pakistan.
CONFIDENTIAL
Department of State
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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- 2 -
As you know, the Foreign Minister of India, Sardar Swaran Singh,
recently visited this country. I had fruitful talks with him, as
he also did with Secretary Rogers and other officials of the
Department of State. The Department subsequently gave Ambassador
Hilaly a full account of our talks with the Foreign Minister
which I feel sure you will have received.
In our meetings the Government of India reflected deep concern
over the rising refugee problem it faces and the burden which it is
placing on the Indian economy and people. We noted in particular the
desire of the Government of India that this problem be resolved
peacefully and that conditions be restored in East Pakistan under
which the flow of refugees will stop and be reversed. It remains
our earnest hope that you and your government will continue to persevere
in your efforts to restore the conditions which will make those
objectives possible.
As I informed you in my letter of May 28, we have counseled the
Government of India to exercise restraint in its relations with Pakistan
as we have urged you and your government to do on your part. I can
assure you that we have continued to stress the vital importance of
this factor in our more recent conversations.
We have noted the several statements you have made recently
welcoming the return to East Pakistan of all the refugees irrespective
CONFIDENTIAL
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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CONFIDENTIAL
- 3 -
of caste, creed or religion and promising them full protection.
We have also noted the steps you have taken to facilitate their
return and rehabilitation. We recognize the significance of your
initiative in seeking the assistance of the United Nations High
Commissioner for Refugees toward that end. We believe, as I am
sure you do, that there is much that the United Nations can do to
facilitate a return of refugees in response to your appeal. We
are concerned, however, that some East Pakistanis are reported to
be continuing to seek refuge across the border in India and I trust
that you will soon succeed in overcoming the problems which have
caused this exodus SO that the flow can be reversed. We are aware
that Indian cooperation is also necessary.
I have noted with interest your address to your countrymen on
June 28 setting forth the framework within which you propose to
proceed in restoring constitutional government and returning political
power to the elected representatives of the people in your country.
I wish to give you every encouragement in maintaining and continuing
your efforts to achieve a peaceful political accommodation and to
attain your stated aim of restoring a democratic way of life in Pakistan.
While I would not wish to intrude into your domestic political affairs,
I continue to hope that you will be able to pursue a conciliatory
approach to this problem SO as to secure the cooperation and support
of the preponderant majority of persons from East Pakistan already
CONFIDENTIAL
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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CONF IDENTIAL
- 4 -
elected to serve in the national and provincial legislatures. I
am confident that you are keenly aware that the restoration of
peaceful and normal political as well as economic conditions in East
Pakistan holds the key to resolving the refugee problem, which in
turn should help alleviate much of the tension between Pakistan
and India.
In response to your message of June 29 regarding economic aid,
I very much regret the misunderstanding that has arisen over the
meeting of the Aid-to-Pakistan Consortium in Paris June 21 and the
understandable anxiety which it has caused in your country. I
sympathize with the statement you made in your address of June 28
disapproving of foreign aid if political strings are attached.
As you may know, the Consortium meeting was an informal one.
No decisions with respect to economic aid to Pakistan were sought and
none were reached. In particular I wish to assure you that a common
position was not developed whereby all members of the Consortium would
jointly suspend future aid or withhold already committed assistance.
The meeting was called to hear the preliminary reports of the World
Bank and IMF missions which recently visited Pakistan and to exchange
views. The Consortium members are now awaiting the final reports of
the Bank and Fund and also the preparation by your government of a
revised national development plan.
I understand that the preliminary findings of the World Bank
CONFIDENTIAL
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DECLASSIFIED
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CONFIDENTIAL
- 5 -
and IMF teams do not suggest that economic activity has yet been
resumed to the extent of permitting resumption of national development
programs. We hope that in the near future Pakistan will be able to
develop its revised plan and begin to implement it. At that point
we expect a formal meeting of the Consortium, with Pakistani partici-
pation, will be called to review new aid requirements.
I believe you are aware of the position of our Government on
the question of future development aid. We wish to proceed with new
arrangements, subject to U.S. legislative criteria, as soon as adequate
grounds are established for a resumption of economic development in
both wings of Pakistan. In the meantime we are extending new humani-
tarian relief aid to East Pakistan within the framework of the UN-
coordinated program, and are urging others to contribute as well.
In this regard I wish to call your attention to the statement in the
press release issued by the Consortium June 22, that "all governments
emphasize their willingness to participate in a program of humanitarian
relief in East Pakistan".
Our Government and I have tried to give you our best counsel
throughout this crisis in your nation's affairs and to be as helpful
as possible in supprting constructive efforts towards its resolution.
Please continue to let me know of any ways in which you feel we can
CONFIDENTIAL
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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CONFIDENTIAL
- 6 -
help promote our common interests in safeguarding the peace of
your region and the welfare of its people.
With personal regards,
Sincerely,
Richard Nixon
CONFIDENTIAL
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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DOC
RECD
MO DA
NSC CORRESPONDENCE PROFILE
0699063014
300-6
LOG NBR sypass
INITIAL ACTION OFF
MO DA HR
LOG IN/OUT ONLY
TO: PRES
FROM: ELIOT
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ROGERS, W
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DOC SOURCE/CLASS/DESCRIPTION
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LIMDIS
HILALY, A.
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CODE WORD
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SUBJECT: Pakestams amb. Transmets TS th SENSITIVE from Yaha
Lehan to Pres
REFERENCE: S/S
OTHER
NOT XEROXED
APP'TS: PRES
HAK
TALKER
MEMCON
DATE REQ.
INTERNAL ROUTING AND DISTRIBUTION
ACTION REQUIRED
ACTION
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MEMO FOR HAK
(
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ADVANCE CYS TO HAK/HAIG
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(
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STAFF SECRETARY
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FOR DISTRIBUTION/DISPATCH
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SECRETARIAT DISTRIBUTION/ACTION
SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA
MEMO
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(
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EUROPE/CANADA
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LATIN AMERICA
REFER TO STATE
(
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UNITED NATIONS
ANY ACTION NECESSARY
(
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ECONOMIC
CONCURRENCE
(
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SCIENTIFIC
DUE DATE:
LR PLANNING
COMMENTS: (Including 0703 Special Instructions)
PROGRAM ANALYSIS
NSC PLANNING
CONGRESSIONAL
DATE
FROM
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Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
* GPO: 1971-412-412
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
INFORMATION
29768
July 2, 1971
CONFIDENTIAL
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN
FROM:
Henry A. Kissinger
SUBJECT: Letter from President Yahya
President Yahya has written to call your attention to what he feels
is "the rapidly mounting threat to peace and stability in the sub-
continent" (letter attached). He feels that the Indians have "spared
no effort to exploit" the refugee problem as an instrument to
impose the government of India's choice in East Pakistan. He voices
concern that, by constant repetition of threats India may create an
atmosphere which could lead to conflict. Yahya closes by requesting
you "to use your influence with India to persuade her to desist from
actions, which could lead not only to a breach of peace but as a result
of that, to unforeseen consequences which could affect the world
community."
This most recent communication from President Yahya is probably
intended to make sure, in the wake of Indian Foreign Minister Singh's
visit, that the Pakistani side of the story is still being heard. Like
the Indian presentation, it is a brief for a position, and the truth
probably lies somewhere between the two. A reply is being drafted
but should probably be held until after an important speech Yahya
plans for June 28.
As you know, an important key to peace in South Asia is defusing the
refugee problem. Yahya has taken some important initial steps to
facilitate a reverse in the continuing net outflow of refugees, but
more remains to be done. Ambassador Farland, who has just
completed a tour of East Pakistan, believes that restoration of
conditions and circumstances conducive to large-scale refugee return,
particularly of Hindus, will be an "exceedingly difficult task, 11 even
in the unlikely event of full Pakistani and Indian cooperation to this end.
President Yahya's political plans, which he tells you he will announce
on June 28, will be important in establishing the framework.
CONFIDENTIAL
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ACTION
29768
CONFIDENTIAL
June 24, 1971
MEMORANDUM FOR DR. KISSINGER
FROM:
Harold H. Saunders 76al
SUBJECT: Letter from President Yahya
In the interest of keeping the President informed, I have
provided you with the attached memorandum for passing
on to him President Yahya's latest letter. However, the
letter has no immediate operational content so if you want
to minimize the flow of paper to the President's desk, we
could hold this until a reply is ready.
Isigned meno
H
CONFIDENTIAL
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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A
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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29768
EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN
2315 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20008
AMbaSsador OF pakistan
June 19, 1971
Dear Dr Kissinger,
I have just received telegraphically the enclosed
letter from my President addressed to His Excellency
President Richard M. Nixon.
I shall be grateful if you would transmit it to its high
destination immediately.
I am sending a copy of it to the Secretary of State also.
With my warm personal regards.
Yours sincerely,
Vilaly.
( A. Hilaly )
The Honourable
Dr. Henry A. Kissinger
The White House
Washington D.C.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
Received by telegram from Islamabad dated June 18, 1971
Your Excellency:
I am addressing you to invite your attention to the rapidly
mounting threat to peace and security in the sub-continent. In the last
few days belligerent statements have been made by the Indian Prime
Minister and her Cabinet Ministers which amount to a threat of war. The
latest of these is a statement in the Indian Parliament by the Indian Prime
Minister on 15th June, relevant extracts of which are attached. It makes
it obvious that the speaker is determined to exploit the presence of dis-
placed persons in India to aggravate a tense situation and justify military
intervention in East Pakistan. Should Indian leaders be allowed to
continue on this course, consequences would be disastrous not only for
the sub-continent but for the entire region.
Notwithstanding the fact, that since independence Pakistan
has received millions of refugees from India, a large number of whom still
remain unsettled, the Indian Government has spared no effort at this
juncture to exploit the presence of Pakistani displaced persons for a politi-
cal end. These persons should be enabled to return to their homes, and
my Government has taken adequate steps to ensure this. We have as you
must have learnt, associated the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees
to advise and assist us in implementation of this objective. The U.N. High
Commissioner, Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan, has personally visited some
of
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
Page 2.
of the reception centers we have established to welcome returning
displaced persons, and satisfied himself that adequate facilities exist
to receive them. Relief and rehabilitation arrangements within the
province of East Pakistan are also to be provided by the U.N. and a
representative of the Secretary-General has already reached Dacca to
co-ordinate activities in this field with the provincial government.
There is welcome news that thousands have already returned and more
would be doing so, if only India would stop discouraging and hindering
their return movement. It is most unfortunate that this humanitarian
question should be cynically turned into political propaganda by India,
and that the Indian Government should use the problem of the displaced
persons, as an instrument of pressure on Pakistan to impose a political
government of Indian choice in East Pakistan. No government could
yield to such blackmail.
As I have repeatedly stressed, war would solve nothing
and we do not want a conflict with India. It remains our earnest hope
that India will not resort to a conflict. The danger is that through
constant repetition of threats, Indian leaders may succeed in creating
an atmosphere and mood in their country which could inevitably lead to
a conflict. In recent days the Indian army has indulged in numerous
aggressive activities from across the border and there are confirmed
reports of increasing concentration of Indian forces. There have also
been
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
Page 3.
been reports by neutral observers of establishment of camps in India
to train saboteurs to infiltrate into East Pakistan.
Your Excellency, it is in this serious situation and in
the interest of preserving peace, that I would request you to use your
influence with India to persuade her to desist from actions, which
could lead not only to a breach of peace but as a result of that, to
unforeseen consequences which could affect the world community.
Your personal interest in the maintenance of peace
in the sub-continent and in the security and progress of Pakistan is
a very important factor to which I attach great importance. Now,
when considerable progress has been made on our side for receiving
back displaced persons, I find that Mrs. Gandhi is unfortunately not
willing to permit them to return to Pakistan, except in circumstances
of her own choosing. I am confident that your advice to her, not to
compound our difficulties, will make a profound difference to the
prevailing situation. I have also made a commitment to announce
my political plans for the country on 28th June. But unless India is
restrained, my efforts would be seriously affected.
With my warm personal regards,
Yours sincerely,
His Excellency
A.M. Yahya Khan
Richard M. Nixon
President of the United States
of America
The White House, Washington, D. C.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
EXCERPTS FROM LATEST STATEMENTS OF
INDIAN LEADERS ON THE EAST PAKISTAN
SITUATION.
Mrs Indira Gandhi said in the Parliament on June 15 " we
are not going to let international community get away without
sharing consequences of what is happening in Bangladesh.
Whether they help in finding a settlement of problem or not,
they will suffer from the consequences of events. Our Ministers
who have gone to various countries are informing them of
developments and their implications.
Mrs Gandhi who was replying to a debate on the subject
in the Rajyasabha said that if the international communit y had
exerted its influence at the proper time, a political settlement
could have been possible earlier. Now with each passing day,
possibility of such a settlement is becoming more remote.
The Indian Premier said, " India does not accept a political
settlement which may mean death of Bangladesh and democracy.
A settlement must be arrived at with those people who are
being supressed in Bangladesh". The Premier also said, "we
our
have no intention of allowing refugees to settle down in country
L
or to go back to Bangladesh to be butchered".
The Indian Foreign Minister Mr Swaran Singh told a press
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
PRESS RELEASE
issued BY THE
embassy OF pakistan
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20008
June 19, 1971.
"Members of the minority community should
have no hesitation in returning to their homes
in East Pakistan. They will be given full pro-
tection and every facility as they are equal citizens
of Pakistan and there is no question of any dis-
criminatory treatment" said President Yahya Khan
in a statement broadcast nation wide on the Pakistan
Radio on June 18.
Referring to his earlier appeals launched May 21,
and May 24, asking displaced persons to return home
the President said, "My appeal was addressed to all
Pakistani nationals irrespective of caste, creed or
religion".
The following is the full text of the President's
broadcast:
"On May 21, I issued a personal message to all
Pakistan nationals who had, due to various reasons,
gone to India to return to their homes in East Pakistan
and resume their normal activities. In my press
conference in Karachi on May 24, I reiterated my
earlier statement and assured displaced persons that
the necessary assistance would be provided to them
for their return and resettlement. It is gratifying
to note that despite hindrances put by interested
parties, many Pakistanis have returned and are now
on the way to their respective homes. I am certain
many more will follow them. As I said before, there
is no question of withholding permission to return
from our own citizens. In fact East Pakistan Govern-
ment has made adequate arrangements to receive them
and to extend full assistance in their rehabilitation.
My appeal was addressed to all Pakistani nationals
irrespective of caste, creed or religion. Members
of the minority community should have no hesitation
in returning to their homes in East Pakistan. They
will be given full protection and every facility as
they are equal citizens of Pakistan and there is no
question of any discriminatory treatment. I urge
them not to be misled by mischievious propaganda being
conducted from outside Pakistan."
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 2 -
conference at Ottawa on June 14 that "India cannot allow
itself to be overrun quietly by refugees from East Pakistan
if the international community does not take sufficient
interest in the problem. This influx poses a threat to India
and action may have to be taken". When asked whether he
was suggesting India might use force to alleviate the burden
he replied, "let us not talk about the use of force". He
suggested that foreign governments should cut off development
and military aid to Pakistan.
Mr Jaya Prakash Narayan told Mr Joseph J. Sisco,
Assistant Secretary of State at Washington on June 8, "if
peace and tranquality was to be restored in East Bengal,
President Yahya Khan's Government should be induced by the
big powers to release Mujibur Rahman and other leaders, withdraw
the army to the barracks and start negotiations with elected
representatives of people". His own view was that East Bengal
and their leaders would not settle for less than total
independence from West Pakistan".
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
IMMEDIATE
The Honourable
Dr Henry A. Kissinger
The White House
Washington D.C.
embassy OF pakistan
2315 avenue, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20008
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
all
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DOC
RECD
BR
INITIAL AC
MO DA
MO DA HR
NSC CORRESPONDENCE PROFILE
06
19
06
2215
29768
Saunders
LOG IN/OUT ONLY
TO: PRES
FROM: ELIOT
U x
NO FORN
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KISSINGER x
ROGERS, W
LOU
BUO
EXDIS
DOC SOURCE/CLASS/DESCRIPTION
HAIG
LAIRD, M
C
EYES ONLY
LIMDIS
Hilaly, A.
S
CODE WORD
RES DATA
TS
SENSITIVE
SUBJECT: Transmitts "Letter fur Pres. Yahya of Pakistan to Pres.
Pe threat of was letween India
REFERENCE: S/S
OTHER
NOT XEROXED
APP'TS: PRES
HAK
TALKER
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REPLY FOR
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DUE DATE: 25 June
LR PLANNING
COMMENTS: (Including Special Instructions)
PROGRAM ANALYSIS
NSC PLANNING
CONGRESSIONAL
DATE
FROM
TO
S
CY TO
6/24/71
Saunders
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HAK
ACTION Pres REQUIRED for Info 6/30
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MICROFILM DATA
CROSS REF WITH
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DATE
SEE LOG
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DO
INIT
DISPOSITION
JOINED BY LOG
COPIES: (AS MARKED ABOVE)
DATE
SPECIAL FILE RQMT:
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ORIG)
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PAF
WHC
SUSPENSE CY ATTACHED:
YES
NO
SUBF
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
* GPO: 1971-412-412
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Famor
*
*
Department of State
UNITED STATES OF
TELEGRAM
CR
SECRET 613:
PAGE 01 STATE 120529
81
ORIGIN NEA-15
INFO OCT-01 AID-28 EUR-20 PRS-01 SR-02 ORM-03 PM-09 NSC-101
SS-20 RSC-01 CIAE-00 INR-08 NSAE-00 DODE-00 /118 RI
66638
NEA : PAF 8 W F spengler
APPROVED BY: NEA/PAF: W F SPENGLER
NEA: VAN HOLLEN S/S-O: R D EMMONS WH: HOSKINSON
006010
P R 031953Z JUL 71
FM SECSTATE WASHDC
TO AMEMBASSY ISLAMABAD PRIORITY
INFO AMEMBASSY NEW DELHI
AMEMBASSY LONDON
AMCONSUL DACCA
SECRET STATE 120529
SUBJ: JUNE 28 MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT YAHYA TO PRESIDENT NIXON
1. FOLLOWING IS TEXT OF TELEGRAPHIC MESSAGE DATED JUNE 28 FROM
PRESIDENT YAHYA TO PRESIDENT NIXON DELIVEREDI BY PAKISTAN EMBASSY
TO WHITE HOUSE JUNE 29:
BEGIN TEXT:
DEAR MR PRESIDENT,
I WAS GREATLY ENCOURAGED BY, REPORT GIVEN TO
ME BY MR M M ABMED AFTER HIS MEETING WITH YOU IN
WASHINGTON LAST MONTH. I DEEPLY APPRECIATE YOUR CONTINUING
INTEREST IN OUR DEVELOPMENT AND PARTICULARLY YOUR
ASSURANCE THAT UNITED STATES WOULD NOT WISH TO DO ANYTHING
THAT WOULD AGGRAVATE PAKISTAN'S DIFFICULTIES AND
UNITED STATES WOULD LIKE WORLD BANK AND OTHER MEMBERS
OF CONSORTIUM TO ADOPT A SIMILAR HELPFUL POSTURE.
2. THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE INFORMAL MEETING OF
THE CONSORTIUM HELD AT PARIS ON 21ST JUNE HAVE HOWEVER
COME TO US AS A DISAPPOINTMENT. THE OFFICIALI COMMUNIQUEI
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Department of State
UNITED STATES OF
TELEGRAM
SECRET
PAGE 02 STATE 120529
ISSUED AFTER THE MEETING IS BARE AND NEGATIVE. THE SAMEI
DAY BRITISH BROADCASTING CORPORATION AND NEW YORK TIMES:
CARRIED STORIES THAT THE CONSORTIUM HAD DECIDED TO
WITHHOLD FURTHER AID TO PAKISTAN UNTILI THE PAKISTAN
GOVERNMENT REVEALS WHAT SORT OF POLITICAL SETTLEMENT IT
ENVISAGES FOR EAST PAKISTAN. THE VERACITY OFI THE
NEWSPAPER REPORTS HAS BEEN ENHANCED BY A STATEMENT OF
THE BRITISH FOREIGN SECRETARY THAT "THERE CAN BE NO
QUESTION OF NEW BRITISH AID TO PAKISTAN UNTIL WE HAVE
FIRM EVIDENCE THAT REAL PROGRESS IS BEING MADE TOWARDS
A POLITICAL SETTLEMENT."
3. ALL THESE DEVELOPMENTS HAVE LEDI TO A STRONG
AND WIDESPREAD PUBLIC REACTION IN PAKISTAN® IT IS MOST
UNFORTUNATE THAT ALL THIS SHOULD HAVE HAPPENED AT THIS
JUNCTURE. IT CAN ONLY MAKE MORE DIFFICULT THE TASK OF
A POLITICAL SETTLEMENT.
4. IN RESPONSE TO THESE DEVELOPMENTS I HAD NO CHOICE
BUT TO DECLARE IN UNEQUIVOCAL TERMS IN MY BROADCAST OF
TODAY THAT EXTERNAL ASSISTANCE WITH POLITICAL STRINGS
WILL BE UNACCEPTABLE TO PAKISTAN.
5 % IT IS IMPORTANT THAT THE GENERAL IMPRESSION
ABOUT THE PRESENT ATTITUDE OF THE CONSORTIUM COUNTRIES
TO PAKISTAN IS FULLY CLARIFIED. THE ADJOURNMENT OF THE
PARIS DISCUSSIONS WITHOUT ANNOUNCING A DATE TO TAKE UP
OUR REQUIREMENTS IS BEING INTERPRETED AS A CONSEQUENCE
OF INDIAN PRESSURE TACTICS
6. I HOPE MR PRESIDENT THAT IN VIEW OFI THE
FRIENDLY RELATIONS BETWEEN OUR TWO COUNTRIES: AND YOUR
PERSONAL INTEREST IN PAKISTAN'S INTEGRITY AND WELL-BEING,
YOU WILL PREVENT THE PRESENT AMBIGUITY ANDI MISUNDERSTANDING
FROM BECOMING A SOURCE OF FURTHER STRAINS IN PAKISTAN'S
RELATIONS WITH THE WESTERN WORLD. THIS IS SOMETHING
WHICH WE SHOULD IN OUR JOINT INTEREST TRY TO PREVENT.
7. YOUR SYMPATHETIC APPROACH TO THE PROBLEMS THAT
PAKISTAN IS FACING TODAY AND THE UNDERSTANDING YOU HAVEI
SHOWN OF OUR EFFORTS TO RESOLVE THE CRISIS IN EAST PAKISTWN
CONTINUE TO BEI A SOURCE OF STRENGTH TO ME. I HOPE
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DEPARTMENT Of STATE
4
*
Department of State
UNITED STATES OF AMERICAN
TELEGRAM
SECRET
PAGE 03 STATE 120529
MR PRESIDENT THAT YOUR PERSONAL INTEREST ANDI SUPPORT INI
THIS REGARD WILLI BE MAINTAINED.
WITH WARM PERSONAL REGARDS,
YOURS SINCERELY,
A M YAHYA KHAN.
END TEXT.
2. FYI: PRESIDENT IS RESPONDING TO ABOVE AS WELLI AS JUNE 18
MESSAGE (STATE 1119681 IN LETTER TO BE DELIVERED BY DR KISSINGER
DURING FORTHCOMING VISIT ISLAMABAD, SIGNED ORIGINAL BEING
CARRIED BY SAUNDERS. ROGERS
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
5
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
31554
MEMORANDUM
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
SECRET/NODIS
August 14, 1971
MEMORANDUM FOR:
Senior Watch Officer
Operations Center (S/S-O)
Department of State
FROM:
Jeanne W. Davis DPE
by
The attached sealed letter should be delivered to Mr. Maurice Williams,
Deputy Administrator of AID, prior to his departure for Pakistan.
He is scheduled to leave Washington on Sunday, August 15.
A copy of the text of the letter is also attached. It should be cabled
immediately to Embassy Islamabad for Ambassador Farland through
State channels. The classification should be "Secret-Nodis".
Dispitated 8/14 Rept # 2690
M
SECRET/NODIS
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
31554
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
August 14, 1971
Dear Mr. President:
Dr. Kissinger has reported to me concerning his
visit to Islamabad and the productive talks he had
with you and other officials of your government on
the problems which are now facing South Asia. I
greatly appreciate the candor with which you dis -
cussed the serious situation in that part of the world,
particularly the danger of hostilities.
You are keenly aware that to the dangers which have
previously existed must now be added the possibility
of serious food shortages in East Pakistan later this
fall. We have sought to do our part to help alleviate
these dangers through our appeals for restraint and
through our full and active support of the humanitarian
relief efforts arranged by the Secretary General of
the United Nations. We plan to make a maximum
effort in this regard.
Nonetheless, the situation remains extremely tense
and in order for the dangers to recede it will be
necessary to stabilize conditions in East Pakistan
and to see a significant number of refugees begin to
return from India. We would like to be helpful, and
it is for this reason that I have asked Mr. Williams
to go to Pakistan. He is a friend of Pakistan, and he
fully shares my view of the situation and of what is
required.
Both your officials and ours recognize that the most
immediate priority is to mount a major effort to
avert famine in East Pakistan. This step is funda-
mental to progress in re-establishing normal
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 2 -
conditions. It will help those of us who want to help
and will reduce the pretext for interference. I am
confident that you also share our judgment that it
would also be helpful in this task for you to continue
your efforts to build on the program announced in
your June 28 address for enlisting the support of the
elected representatives of the East Pakistani people
in the urgent work of national reconciliation.
All of these measures will be important in counter-
ing the corrosive threat of insurgency and restoring
peace to your part of the world. They will also
hasten the day when the United States and other
countries can resume, within a revised national de-
velopment plan, the task of assisting your country's
economic development which has been so tragically
complicated and slowed by recent events.
In addition, demonstrable progress on the political
front will mean that our own counsels of restraint in
New Delhi will have a greater chance of success.
I have asked Ambassador Farland and Mr. Williams
to share with you some additional thoughts on these
subjects, in that same spirit of friendship which you
have so kindly shown for them in the past and which
has also characterized our own discussions. Finally,
let me extend my warm regards and assure you again
that I appreciate fully the tremendous tasks that you
and your countrymen face.
Sincerely,
Richard nifor
His Excellency
General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan
President of Pakistan
President's House
Rawalpindi, Pakistan
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
Dear Mr. Presidents
Dr. Kissinger has reported to me concerning his
visit to Islamabad and the productive talks he had
with you and other officials of your government on
the problems which are now facing South Asia. I
greatly appreciate the candor with which you dis-
cussed the serious situation in that part of the world,
particularly the danger of hostilities.
You are keenly aware that to the dangers which have
previously existed must now be added the possibility
of serious food shortages in East Pakistan later this
fall. We have sought to do our part to help alleviate
these dangers through our appeals for restraint and
through our full and active support of the humanitarian
relief efforts arranged by the Secretary General of
the United Nations. We plan to make a maximum
effort in this regard.
Nonetheless, the situation remains extremely tense
and in order for the dangers to recede it will be
necessary to stabilise conditions in East Pakistan
and to see a significant number of refugees begin to
return from India. We would like to be helpful, and
it is for this reason that I have asked Mr. Williams
to go to Pakistan. He is a friend of Pakistan, and he
fully shares my view of the situation and of what is
required.
Both your officials and ours recognize that the most
immediate priority is to mount a major effort to
avert famine in East Pakistan. This step is funda-
mental to progress in re-establishing normal
RN:HAK:HS:mlh:retyped 8/13/71
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 2 -
conditions. It will help those of us who want to help
and will reduce the pretext for interference. I am
confident that you also share our judgment that it
would also be helpful in this task for you to continue
your efforts to build on the program announced in
your June 28 address for calisting the support of the
elected representatives of the East Pakistani people
in the urgent work of national reconciliation.
All of these measures will be important in counter-
ing the corrosive threat of insurgency and restoring
peace to your part of the world. They will also
hasten the day when the United States and other
countries can resume, within a revised national de-
velopment plan, the task of assisting your country's
economic development which has been so tragically
complicated and slowed by recent events.
In addition, demonstrable progress on the political
front will mean that our own counsels of restraint in
New Delhi will have a greater chance of success.
I have asked Ambassador Farland and Mr. Williams
to share with you some additional thoughts on these
subjects, in that same spirit of friendship which you
have so kindly shown for them in the past and which
has also characterized our own discussions. Finally,
let me extend my warm regards and assure you again
that I appreciate fully the tremendous tasks that you
and your countrymen face.
Sincerely,
His Excellency
General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan
President of Pakistan
President's House
Rawalpindi, Pakistan
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ACTION
31554
August 14, 1971
SECRET
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
Henry A. Kissinger K
SUBJECT:
Approach to President Yahya
Attached is a proposed letter for you to send to President Yahya.
It captures the essence of the approach which Ambassador Farland
and Deputy AID Administrator Maury Williams will make to President
Yahya early next week. Farland is already en route back to Islamabad,
and Williams will leave Sunday night.
The letter generalizes the strategy which you stated Wednesday after-
noon to the members of the Senior Review Group:
- The situation is tense and the dangers are unlikely to recede
until East Pakistan returns to normal. Mr. Williams is coming
to discuss ways in which we can help in re-establishing more
normal conditions.
- In your view the most immediate need is to mount a major effort
to avert famine in East Pakistan. This will not only help in restoring
normal conditions but will provide a framework for the help of
outsiders and undercut the Indian excuse for interference.
This will also be important in the long run in the program
President Yahya has announced for re-establishing a political
framework in East Pakistan. That is important in blunting the
threat of insurgency.
Williams will then talk about what the US will do, what the US will
press the UN and other governments to do and what we feel the govern-
ment of Pakistan can do to mount a successful relief program.
The instructions being sent to Williams and to Ambassador Farland
then give them discretion to raise as questions several thoughts that
President Yahya might consider as he plots his course toward
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
SECRET
- 2 -
re-establishment of civil administration and ultimately the new
political framework in East Pakistan. But these would be put
tentatively, if Farland uses them at all, and are not stated as
pre-conditions for movement on the relief front.
RECOMMENDATION: That you sign the attached letter. [Text
cleared byMr. Price.] As soon as you have, I will clear instructions
embodying the points made above.
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Dear Mr. President:
Dr. Kissinger has reported to me concerning his
visit to Islamabad and the productive talks he had
with you and other officials of your government on
the problems which are now facing South Asia. I
greatly appreciate the candor with which you dis-
cussed the serious situation in that part of the world,
particularly the danger of hostilities.
You are keenly aware that to the dangers which have
previously existed must now be added the possibility
of serious food shortages in East Pakistan later this
fall. We have sought to do our part to help alleviate
these dangers through our appeals for restraint and
through our full and active support of the humanitarian
relief efforts arranged by the Secretary General of
the United Nations. We plan to continue all of these
efforts. make a effort this regard.
Nonetheless, the situation remains extremely tense
and in order for the dangers to recede it will be
necessary to stabilize conditions in East Pakistan and
to see a significant number of refugees begin to return
from India. We would like to be helpful, and it is for
this reason that I have asked Mr. Williams to go to
Pakistan. He is a friend of Pakistan, and he fully
shares my view of the situation and of what is required.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 2 -
Both your officials and ours recognize that the most
immediate priority is to mount a major effort to
avert famine in East Pakistan. This step is funda-
mental to progress in re-establishing normal
conditions. It will help those of us who want to help
and will reduce the pretext for interference. I am
confident that you also share our judgment that it
would also be helpful for you to continue your efforts
to build on the program announced in your June 28
address for enlisting the support of the elected
representatives of the East Pakistani people in the
urgent work of national reconciliation.
All of these measures will be important in countering
the corrosive threat of insurgency and restoring peace
to your part of the world. They will also hasten the day
when the United States and other countries can resume,
within a revised national development plan, the task of
assisting your country's economic development which
has been so tragically complicated and slowed by recent
events.
In addition, demonstrable progress on the political
front will mean that our own counsels of restraint in
New Delhi will have a greater chance of success.
I have asked Ambassador Farland and Mr. Williams to
share with you some additional thoughts on these subjects,
in that same spirit of friendship which you have so kindly
shown for them in the past and which has also characterized
our own discussions. Finally, let me extend my warm
regards and assure you again that I appreciate fully the
tremendous tasks that you and your countrymen face.
Sincerely,
His Excellency
General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan
President of Pakistan
President's House
Rawalpindi, Pakistan
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DOC
RECD
LOG NP
INITIAL ACTION OFF
MO DA HR
NSC CORRESPONDENCE PROFILE
MO 813 DA
8/14/11
315
y
LOG IN/OUT ONLY
TO: PRES
FROM: ELIOT
U
NO FORN
NODIS
x
KISSINGER
rogers, W
LOU
BUO
EXDIS
DOC SOURCE/CLASS/DESCRIPTION
HAIG
laird, M
C
EYES ONLY
LIMDIS
SAUNDERS
X
S
CODE WORD
RES DATA
SUBJECT: Approach to Pres YAhyA TS
SENSITIVE
REFERENCE: S/S
OTHER
NOT XEROXED
APP'TS: PRES
HAK
TALKER
MEMCON
DATE REQ.
INTERNAL ROUTING AND DISTRIBUTION
ACTION REQUIRED
ACTION
INFO
REC
MEMO FOR HAK
(
)
CY
ADVANCE CYS TO HAK/HAIG
FOR
MEMO FOR PRES.
(
)
STAFF SECRETARY
REPLY FOR
SIGNATURE
(
)
FAR EAST
for DISTRIBUTION/DISPATCH
(
)
SECRETARIAT DISTRIBUTION/ACTION
SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA
for
MEMO
TO
(
)
NR EAST/NORTH AFRICA
RECOMMENDATIONS
(
)
EUROPE/CANADA
JOINT MEMO
(
)
LATIN AMERICA
REFER TO STATE
(
)
UNITED NATIONS
ANY ACTION NECESSARY
(
)
ECONOMIC
CONCURRENCE
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Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
# GPO
71-412-412
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ACTION
31968
Hay
CONFIDENTIAL
September 10, 1968
71
MEMORANDUM FOR DR. KISSINGER
FROM:
Samuel M. Hoskinson SH
SUBJECT:
Letter from Yahya
President Yahya has sent a letter to the President expressing
his pleasure in having been involved in your trip to China.
Attached is a short memo for you to convey Yahya's letter to
the President.
RECOMMENDATION: That you send the attached memo
conveying Yahya's letter to the President.
CONFIDENTIAL
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
7113175
31968
OF STATE
Washington, D.C. 20520
SECRET/NODIS
August 26, 1971
MEMORANDUM FOR MR. HENRY A. KISSINGER
THE WHITE HOUSE
Subject: Letter from Pakistani President
Yahya to President Nixon on
China Initiative
On August 25, the Pakistani Embassy delivered
the attached letter from President Yahya to the
President commending President Nixon's recent
China initiative. We do not believe a reply is
necessary.
The Department does not appear to have a
copy of President Nixon's July 26 letter to
President Yahya. If appropriate, we would appreciate
receiving one.
) NO
Jane Exeuctive L. Caron Secretary Eliot, Jr for
Attachment:
Letter to President
SECRET/NODIS
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
INFORMATION
31968
September 15, 1971
CONFIDENTIAL
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
Henry A. Kissinger A
SUBJECT: Letter from President THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN.
ty
President Yahya has written (see attached letter) to say that
he is "deeply grateful" for your letter thanking him for his role
in my trip to China. He is obviously happy to have been involved
in what he calls "this mission of peace. "
CONFIDENTIAL
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
#####
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
PRESIDENT'S HOUSE,
PAWALPINDI.
From: General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan,
H.Pk., H.J.,
President of Pakistan
19 August 1971
Dear Mr President,
I am deeply grateful for your letter of 26th July 1971.
It is indeed very kind of you to express your sentiments
about Pakistan's role in the historic negotiations undertaken
by you towards normalising relations between the United States
and the People's Republic of China. Whatever we were able to
do was from our deep conviction that this was essential in the
interest of world peace. But the decision was yours and yours
alone, and it is you, Mr President, who will be remembered in
history for your statesmanship and far-sightedness.
It was a pleasure and an honour for us to cooperate in
this mission of peace.
hith Warmest repards.
Yours sincerely,
thyough
His Excellency Mr Richard M Nixon,
President of the United States of America,
White House,
Washington D.C.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
3
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
34345
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20506
November 4, 1971
CONFIDENTIAL
MEMORANDUM FOR
Mr. Theodore L. Eliot, Jr.
Executive Secretary
Department of State
SUBJECT:
Letter from President Yahya and
Pakistani Aide Memoire
Attached for your information are copies of a letter to the
President from President Yahya and an aide memoire on the
Indo-Pakistani problem which were delivered by the
Pakistani charge and Ambassador-Designate when they
called on Dr. Kissinger November 3.
mm Jeanne W. Davis
Staff Secretary
Attachment
CONFIDEN TIAL
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
Dispatchethis05mehth/asben reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
AIDE MEMOIRE
A.
DISPLACED PERSONS :
A careful district-wise survey by the Government
of Pakistan showed that just over two million persons
left their homes.
India claims that there are more than nine million.
If India is honest about this claim, she should accept
verification by the United Nations as repeatedly
proposed by Pakistan's President.
Vagabonds, beggars and poor Indians and persons
displaced in border areas of India have entered refugee
camps and mingled with displaced Pakistanis to get free
shelter, food, etc.
Kelly, UNHCR representative, is reported to have
said that border areas remained disturbed because of
guerrilla activities actively supported by India,
returnees deny to have suffered atrocities and said
that people fled out of sheer fear and panic.
B.
WHAT PAKISTAN HAS DONE TO AID REFUGEE RETURN :
1. The President of Pakistan has already appealed
to the refugees to return home regardless of their
religion, caste or creed. There is no limitation on
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 2 -
their number. Government will provide all possible
assistance, including financial, for their rehabilitation.
2. Refugee camps have been set up all along the
border.
3. Pakistan has accepted U.N. and U.S. proposals
as stated below :
i) Pakistan welcomed the U.N. Secretary-General's
offer of good offices;
ii) Pakistan accepted U.S. proposal calling
for withdrawal of troops. India rejected it. In
reply to U.N. Secretary-General's proposal, the
President of Pakistan suggested "withdrawals of
manpower along with armour and artillery all
along Indo-Pakistan international frontiers both
in East and West if not to peace time stations,
then at least to mutually agreed safe distance
on either side of the border.
iii) The President has suggested to the Secretary-
General to visit Pakistan and India;
iv) Pakistan has accepted the posting of
United Nations observers on India and Pakistan
side;
v) Pakistan has given full cooperation to the
representatives of U.N. Secretary-General and
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees;
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 3 -
4. The measures taken by Pakistan include
appointment of a Minister from Minority communities
in East Pakistan Government and adequate funds placed
at the disposal of the Provincial authorities.
C.
MEASURES TO RESTORE DEMOCRACY :
(a) A ten man cabinet of members drawn from all
major political parties including two elected
members of the outlawed Awami League has been set up
in East Pakistan with Dr. A.M. Malik as Governor.
Dr. Malik is a veteran East Pakistani politician who has held
important portfolios in the past in varibus Governments of Pakista
(b) A Constitution providing for maximum autonomy
will be announced on December 20, and presented to
the National Assembly. The bye-elections will be
completed and the National Assembly will meet on
December 27;
(c) The National Assembly can propose amendment
by a simple majority and with a consensus of various
Provinces by 25 per cent vote. Soon after, power will
be transferred to civilian elected government.
D.
INDIA'S ACTIONS WHICH STAND IN THE WAY OF
RETURN OF DISPLACED PERSONS :
1. Incessant mortaring and shelling across
East Pakistan border keep conditions disturbed;
2. Indian radio broadcast about impending battle
and disturbed conditions in Pakistan.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 4 -
3. According to Lee Lescaze, who wrote in the
Washington Post on October 29, "almost all
tell interviewers that refugees in Indian
camps are constantly being warned that East Pakistan
is still not safe and they will be killed if they go
back". He also says " a few returning refugees tell of
having been ordered to stay in India".
4. India does not allow United Nations observers
into the camps;
5. India will not allow Pakistanis to go and
speak to the refugees to return;
6. Delhi has refused United Nations help in
arranging reversal of refugee flow. It has rejected
U.N. Secretary-General's proposals. Its leaders insist
that displaced persons will return only to "Bangla Desh".
E.
MOUNTING INDO-PAKISTAN TENSION :
India and Pakistan stand on the brink of war.
India has mobilised its forces and called up reserves.
India is actively aiding guerrillas and arming them.
India's Defence Minister has threatened that he will not
withdraw from areas that Indian troops occupy in case
of war. Indian leaders like Jay Prakash Narayan have
urged war on Pakistan.
India argues that it brought troops to border
after Pakistani troops moved to the border.
This is incorrect.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
However, takir the false Indian statemer 'as a
hypothesis for the sake of discussion India should withdraw
troops or offer to withdraw them now that President Yahya
has clearly offered to do so.
India pretends that Pakistan is threatening to go to
war against her and that Pakistan is fully equipped.
The facts are known to the world. India has many
ordnance factories. It produces tanks, war planes, heavy guns and
all kinds of arms and ammunition. It is also getting sophisticated
weapons and military hardware from the U.S.S.R.-- - a supply
that has increased substantially since the signature of the
India-U.S.S.R. Treaty.
While professing sympathy for the people of East Pakistan,
India is waging an open warfare against them through continuous
infiltration and shelling of East Pakistan. India has provided
arms, training and sancturies on large scale to East Pakistan
rebels. These facts have been confirmed by despatches of foreign
correspondents from Calcutta. Two of these are :
Arms Are Flowing to Calcutta,
Reported Destined for Bengalis
Guerrilla Step-up Seen
By SYDNEY H. SCHANBERG
Special to The New York Times
CALCUTTA, India, Oct. 11-
Under heavy security, several
special freight trains carrying
I
military supplies now arrive
4
Washington Post, November 2.
here every day. The arms are
C
J. Hoagland.
reported to be for the Bengali
Calcutta - Nov. 1.
guerrillas who are fighting for
;
East Pakistan's independence
1
Indian
and who seem to be preparing
1
arms deliveries to the guer-
to step up their activities
rillas werre stepped up after
against the Pakistani army.
the Soviet Union assured In-
On the guerrilla side, the cru-
dia that it would replenish
cial question is how far India is
weapons supplies sent to the
rebel forces.
willing to 80 in support of the
independence movement. So far
the Indians have been provid-
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
ing sanctuary, training and a
DECLASSIFIED
certain amount of arms
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
F.
INDIA'S BELLICOS STAND CONTRADICTORY :
India contends that East Pakistan crisis is not
an internal matter for Pakistan and justifies her own
and seeks other's interference. But when the U.N., Iran
and U.S. proposed mediation, Indo-Pak summit talks and
withdrawal of troops, (proposals which Pakistan accepted
but India rejected) India said the dispute was not between
India and Pakistan but an internal matter of Pakistan
involving the so-called "Bangla Desh" rebels and the
Government of West Pakistan. Mrs. Gandhi said recently
that she was willing to talk with President Yahya on
other subjects but not on "Bangla Desh".
Indian Ambassador Jha when asked by a TV interviewer
on October 26, as to why India did not accept U.N.
proposal, while declaring that it was committed to peace
and desired peace and the U.N. proposals provided a
compromise solution, the Indian Ambassador said "what is
the compromise that we can make. The differences are
between the people of East Bengal and the Government of
West Pakistan. We cannot settle for them. We do not claim
to speak for them. 11 Yet India continues to interfere
politically and militarily.
India is emboldened by the Indo-Soviet Treaty in
her aggressive posture against Pakistan.
On the heels of the visit to India of the U.S.S.R.
Deputy Foreign Minister, Mr. Firyubin, the Air Force Chief
of the Soviet Union flew to Delhi. It was obviously not
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 7
a routine visit as he had toured India only a few months
ago. It is believed that the visit is related to the
supply of sophisticated and other military hardware to
the Indian Armed Forces.
Mrs. Gandhi admitted massive Soviet arms deliveries
to India.
Mrs. Gandhi Upholds Arms Aid
Special to The New York Times
BRUSSELS, Oct. 26- Prime
Minister Indira Gandhi said
here today that there was noth-
ing unusual in "massive arms
deliveries" to India by the
Soviet Union, as reported in
the press.
India's Foreign Minister stated on October 29,
that India had been assured by the U.S.S.R. of all support
in case of a conflict with Pakistan.
Pakistan is naturally alarmed at these developments
as they should cause concern to all those who are
interested in peace in the Sub-continent.
India's violations of Pakistan's borders and
continuous shelling of Pakistani territory escalated to
dangerous proportions. Reuter despatch date-lined New Delhi
October 30, stated :
QUOTE : "It was the first time the Government
(Indian) had admitted border fighting involving
Indian troops in the present tense situation
between the two countries.
The disclosure was viewed by observers as
an indication that Indian troops had moved up
closer to the frontier.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
Until now officials had maintained that
all the border clashes with the Pakistani troops
in East Pakistan since the outbreak of the
"Bangla Desh" rebel movement there had involved
only the para-military Tndian border security
forces". UNQUOTE.
G.
INDIA'S REAL INTENTIONS :
India is feverishly working for dismemberment of
Pakistan though her leaders claim that India would like
to see a solution within the framework of Pakistan but
acceptable to the elected representatives. India and the
"Bangla Desh" rebels do not allow the elected representatives
who are in India to go back to East Pakistan. Indian
Government leaders and officials use the word "East Bengal"
and "Bangla Desh" in all their statements instead of
East Pakistan. India tries to include these words in
joint statements issued at end of talks with fòreign
governments, and has given de-facto recognition to
"Bangla Desh" through her large scale military, political
and financial support to the rebels.
India's open political and military interference is
another manifestation of Indo-Pakistan conflict arising out
of India's basic unwillingness to reconcile herself to
the partition of the Sub-continent and her attempts since
then to isolate and now to dismember Pakistan.
If India sincerely wants a peaceful settlement of the prese
Indo- Pakistan crisis, she should take measures to
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 9 =
reduce tension (withdraw her troops, stop shelling and
infiltration of Pakistani territory, withhold political
and military assistance to rebels) and allow Pakistan to
carry out her programme of transferring power to elected
representatives of the people as scheduled by end of
December-early January. Pakistan will fully cooperate with
India for reducing tension. The President of Pakistan told
Le Monde correspondent in an interview published on
October 18 that he was prepared to discuss Indo-Pakistan
affairs with any one, anywhere and on any point and was
willing to accept any mediation in this connection.
H.
TRUTH ABOUT INDIA'S MUCH PUBLICISED SELF-RESTRAINT :
India seems to have managed to get credit for :
(a) exercising restraint; and
(b) giving shelter to East Pakistan refugees.
In fact, it is Pakistan, not India which should be
credited for having exercised restraint in the face of
mounting Indian shelling and infiltration into East Pakistan.
India has given shelter to the displaced persons
for its own ulterior motives :
(a) to discredit Pakistan in the eyes of the world;
(b) to obtain large foreign aid;
(c) to use refugees for propaganda and guerrilla
operations in East Pakistan; and
(d) to secure secession of East Pakistan.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 10 "
History demonstrates that India has had nothing
but hatred and animosity for the areas that are now
East Pakistan. When the British, recognizing the ruthless
domination of West Bengal on East Bengal areas, separated
the two regions into two provinces they had to face sustained
opposition till they had to annul that decision. Not even
a University was permitted in Dacca for a long time and
East Bengal territory was maintained only as a raw material
producing area for Calcutta's industry and capital. Another
example of this ruthless exploitation is that East Pakistan
which had a world monopoly of jute production did not have
even a single jute mill before Independence. More recently
India tried to create economic problems for East Pakistan
and has not responded to Pakistan's continuous efforts for
equitable distribution of the waters of the Ganges river
at the Farakka. Some Indian lobbyists are using the above
two arguments (restraint and shelter for refugees) for
securing additional and substantial economic aid to India.
On the contrary, it is Pakistan which needs economic assistance
for rehabilitation and reconstruction. Further, in deference
to the wishes of the U.S. Government Pakistan agreed to the
closure of the military pipeline in the face of massive
Soviet arms to India. It is Pakistan which thus needs debt
relief, economic assistance and military supplies.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 11 1.
I.
FOOD SITUATION :
Food situation in Pakistan is fully under control
and economic life fast returning to normal.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
From: General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan,
H.Pk. ,II.J.,
President of Pakistan
PRESIDENT'S HOUSE,
RAWALPIND1.
26
September 1971
Dear Mr. President,
In calling Major-General N.A.M. Raza, a
veteran soldier as well as an experienced diplomat,
back to duty from retirement, I have I think selected
a most suitable envoy for Washington. His appointment
further emphasises the paramount importance I attach to
our relations with your great country. Apart from
his distinguished services as our Ambassador in Tehran,
Rome and Paris, he served twice as Ambassador in Peking.
2.
May I avail myself of this opportunity,
Mr. President, to express my very sincere appreciation
of the sympathetic understanding and assistance that
I have been receiving from you and your Government in
over-coming the immense difficulties placed in my
path towards restoration of democracy, by the unfortunate
12
crisis in East Pakistan.
3.
As you know I have been doing everything
within my power to put the country back on the rails.
However, India with her intransigence, her open hostility
and her unabashed support and aid to the miscreants is
making my task infinitely more difficult. I earnestly
request you to do all you can to dissuade India from
this militantly aggressive attitude of hers towards
my country. She must be made to realise the serious
threat that her present policy is posing towards the
peace of this region.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 2 --
1.
Since the announcement of my political
programme of 28th June, I have taken various steps to
hasten the moment for the redemption of my pledge to
transfer power to a civilian Government. As you may
have been informed, I have declared general amnesty in
East Pakistan and have also appointed a civilian Governor
there, who is being assisted by civilian ministers
selected from various shades of political opinion.
Dates for by-elections in East Pakistan have also been
announced. All these steps have evoked a response
from political circles and I am hopeful that by the end
of the year the major problems would have been resolved.
In this process of democratisation your continued personal
interest and the support of the United States would be
invaluable.
5.
With that in view, I would earnestly hope that
Ambassador Raza, in whom I repose my fullest trust, would
receive your kind co-operation and would have access to
you so as to keep you posted on future developments in
my country.
11
Please accept, Mr. President, the assurances
of my highest consideration.
Yours Anying sincerely,
His Excellency Mr. Richard M. Nixon,
President of the United States of America,
Washington
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DOC
RECD
LOG NBR
INITIAL ACTION OFF
MO DA
MO DA HR
NSC CORRESPONDENCE PROFILE
11
$
11
49
34345
LOG IN/OUT ONLY
TO: PRES
FROM: ELIOT
U
NO FORN
NODIS
KISSINGER X
ROGERS, W
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EXDIS
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DOC SOURCE/CLASS/DESCRIPTION
HAIG
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LIMDIS
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CODE WORD
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SUBJECT:
SEP 26th LTR From yohya and Aide prove - to state Fyl
REFERENCE: S/S
OTHER
NOT XEROXED
APP'TS: PRES
HAK
TALKER
MEMCON
DATE REQ.
INTERNAL ROUTING AND DISTRIBUTION
ACTION REQUIRED
ACTION
INFO
REC
MEMO FOR HAK
(
)
CY
ADVANCE CYS TO HAK/HAIG
for
MEMO FOR PRES.
(
)
STAFF SECRETARY
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(
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FOR DISTRIBUTION/DISPATCH
(
)
SECRETARIAT DISTRIBUTION/ACTION
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(
)
NR EAST/NORTH AFRICA
RECOMMENDATIONS
(
)
EUROPE/CANADA
JOINT MEMO
(
)
LATIN AMERICA
REFER TO STATE
(
)
UNITED NATIONS
ANY ACTION NECESSARY
(
)
ECONOMIC
CONCURRENCE
(
)
SCIENTIFIC
DUE DATE:
LR PLANNING
COMMENTS: (Including Special Instructions)
PROGRAM ANALYSIS
NSC planning
CONGRESSIONAL
DATE
FROM
TO
S
ACTION REQUIRED
CY TO
"/4
Drus ofd pueo to Eliot
INTERNAL/INTERIM ROUTING
MICROFILM DATA
CROSS REF WITH
NOTIFY
DATE
X
SEE LOG
DISPATCH: LETTER/MEMO
DO
STate Done
DISPOSITION
JOINED BY LOG
COPIES: (AS MARKED above)
081971 DATE
SPECIAL FILE RQMT:
SA,
HP,
HM
ORIG)
NSC
X
special DISPOSITION COMMENTS:
TO )
PAF
WHC
F
SUSPENSE CY ATTACHED:
YES
NO
SUBF
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
# GPO: 1971-412-412
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
(Looks like
Ed-
houldgo
IN PresCorres
File)
Ed Date Muriel Sk said keep For they
right this so
handy
JiM.
The White House
WASHINGTON
2 November 71
General Haig:
These are the materials left
by the new Pak Ambassador.
Hal Saunders has copies. I don't
Route to staff
Send original to Pres. files
Other
Coleman
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
locument has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declas
AIDE MEMOIRE
The Government of Pakistan request that the
following may please be borne in mind during talks with
Mrs. Gandhi:
(a)
Within less than two months Pakistan
would have completed elections to the National Assembly
and framing of the Constitution and an elected government
would have been set up.
(b)
Refugees should be allowed to return to
East Pakistan and that Pakistan has assured their safe
return and rehabilitation;
(c) A united Pakistan is essential for stability
in South Asia;
(d)
India's actions only lead to one conclusion,
i.e. she is working for the dismemberment of Pakistan and
setting up of independent "Bangla Desh" which is contrary
to her own interests and seriously threatens international
peace and progress.
(e)
President Yahya Khan has already extended
his hand of friendship towards India and is not holding
clenched fists.
contd
2
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 2 -
(f)
Pakistan's all out efforts to restore
democracy with maximum autonomy for East Pakistan;
(g) India should not exploit Pakistan's present
difficulties to dismember Pakistan;
(h) India's military action may involve other
powers;
(i)
Military balance on the sub-continent stood
heavily in favour of India and she need have no fear of
aggression from Pakistan.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
Department of State
UNITED STATES OF AMERICANCE
SUMMARY
TELEGRAM
FILE COPY
SECRET 146
PAGE 01 ISLAMA 10927 0216262
42
ACTION SS-25
COPY
INFO OCT-01 SSO-00 NSCE-00 1026 W
001987
A
021445Z NOV 71
FM AMEMBASSY ISLAMABAD
TO SECSTATE WASHDC PRIORITY 1304
ANDERSON
INFO AMCONSUL DACCA PRIORITY
BEHR
MCONSUL LAHORE
BERGSTEN
AMCONSUL KARACHI
CHAPIN
AMEMBASSY NEW DELHI
MEMBASSY LONDON
MEMBASSY TEHRAN
ISSION USUN NEW YORK
ROBINSON
MCONSUL CALCUTTA
RONDON
SECRE T ISLAMABAD 10927
SMYSER
EXDIS
SONNSWRELDT
SUBJECT: YAHYANURUL NURUL ISLAM MEETING
REF: STATE 198660
w/w
STATE 196540
DACCA 4497
ISLAMABAD 10701
STATE 199249
1. SUMMARY: YAHYA AGREED TO MEET WITH NURUL ISLAM
PLUS HIS GROUP OF FORMER AWAMI LEAGUERS FOR PURPOSE
DISCUSSION OF SHEIKH MUJIBUR RAHMAN'S FUTURE AND
EXPLORING MEANS OF EFFECTING CONTACTS WITH BANGLA DESH.
END SUMMARY.
2. I MET WITH PRESIDENT YAHYA KHAN AT THE PRESIDENT'S
HOUSE IN RAWALPINDI AT 0900 HOURS TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 2.
DURING THE HOUR AND TWENTY-MINUTE CONVERSATION WHICH
ENSUED, AMONG OTHER MATTERS WHICH WERE TOPICS FOR COMMENT
AND WHICH WILL BE REPORTED BY SEPTELS, THE QUESTION OF
MEETING WITH MNA NURUL ISLAM (AWAMI LEAGUE) WAS DISCUSSED
AT CONSIDERABLE LENGTH.
SECRET
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE UTHORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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COPY
CRET
PAGE 02 ISLAMA 1ø927 ø21626Z
3. I UTILIZED THIS OPPORTUNITY TO TELL YAHYA THAT A
CLEARED FORMER AWAMI LEAGUE MNA, NURUL ISLAM, HAD
APPROACHED OUR CONGEN IN DACCA WITH THE SUGGESTION THAT
A SMALL DELEGATION OF FORMER AWAMI LEAGUERS BE GIVEN
THE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET WITH HIM (YAHYA) TO DISCUSS THE
POSSIBILITY OF A POLITICAL SETTLEMENT. I DID NOT GO
INTO THE SUBSTANCE OF ISLAM PROPOSAL (REFTEL DACCA
4497), HOWEVER, I DID FOREWARN HIM THAT ONE THE THE TOPICS
THE AWAMI LEAGUERS INTENDED TO RAISE WAS THE RELEASE OF
SHEIKH MUJIBUR RAHMAN. THIS IN ORDER TO FORESTALL ANY
ADVERSE REACTION THAT MIGHT OCCUR IF THE SUBJECT WERE BROUGHT
UP WITHOUT ADVANCE NOTICE.
4. IN CONVEYING THIS INFORMATION TO YAHYA I MADE IT
AS CLEAR AS POSSIBLE THAT WHAT I WAS DOING WAS NOTHING MORE
THAN SERVING AS A CHANNEL FOR THE PROPOSAL: THE DECISION
TO ACCEPT OR REJECT THE IDEA OF SUCH A MEETING WAS
ENTIRELY UP TO HIM.
I ADDED THAT IF HE WISHED, NEVERTHELESS, I WOULD BE
HAPPY TO GET IN TOUCH WITH NURUL ISLAM THROUGH CONSUL
GENERAL SPIVAK FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONVEYING HIS DECISION
ALONG WITH ANY COMMENTS HE MIGHT WANT TO MAKE.
5. YAHYA SAID THAT HE WOULD WELCOME AN OPPORTUNITY TO
TALK TO NURUL ISLAM SINCE THE POINT OF VIEW OF THESE
"CLEARED" MNAS WOULD BE VERY INTERESTING AND, HOPEFULLY,
USEFUL. HE ALSO OBSERVED THAT NURUL AMIN, PRESIDENT OF
PAKISTAN DEMOCRATIC PARTY, WOULD BE CALLING UPON HIM
SHORTLY WITH SUGGESTIONS APPLICABLE TO EAST PAKISTAN.
6. WITH YAHYA COOPERATIVELY AMENABLE TO MY SUGGESTIONS,
I ASKED HIM IF HE WOULD BE ADVERSE TO MEETING WITH A
BANGLA DESH LEADER IN INDIA OR ELSEWHERE OTHER THAN EAST
PAKISTAN FOR A DISCUSSION LOOKING TOWARD THE EASING OF THE
PRESENT CRISIS, IT BEING UNDERSTOOD THAT GOP WOULD GRANT
THE BANGLA DESH REPRESENTATIVE "WHITE FLAG" PASSAGE TO
AND FROM PAKISTAN. IN A VEIN SIMILAR TO HIS ANSWER REGARDING
NURUL ISLAM, YAHYA SAID THAT HE WOULD HAVE NO OBJECTION TO
SUCH A MEETING AND WOULD BE WILLING TO PARTICPATE IN THE
ARRANGEMENTS THEREFOR. HE ADDED ONE CAVEAT, HOWEVER. TO
THE EFFECT THAT THE BANGLA DESH REPRESENTATIVE COULD NOT
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
STATE
Depa Department tment of State
LINE
AMERICA
TELEGRAM
STATES
OF
SECRET
PAGE 03 ISLAMA 10927 0216262
BE AN INDIVIDUAL WHO HAD BEEN ADJUDGED GUILTY OF A MAJOR
CRIME. HE SAID TO RECEIVE SUCH AN INDIVIDUAL, CATEGORIZED
A FELLON, AT THIS PARTICULAR TIME, WOULD BE LESS THAN
POLITIC, GIVEN THE POLITICAL CLIMATE PERMEATING WEST PAKISTAN.
7. I PRESSED THE MATTER ONE POINT FURTHER BY WONDERING
ALOUD WHETHER OR NOT YAHYA WOULD AGREE TO PERMITTING
SHEIKH MUJIBUR RAHMAN TO DESIGNATE THE BANGLA DESH
REPRESENTATIVE SPECIFICALLY ONE SUCH AS WE HAD BEEN DISCUSSING
(REFTEL STATE 1992491. YAHYA SAID THAT HE WOULD CONSIDER
THAT POSSIBILITY ALTHOUGH HE FELT, OFF HAND, THAT MUJIBUR
HAD BEEN DISCREDITED TO THE POINT WHERE A SUGGESTION BY HIM OF
SUCH A REPRESENTATIVE MIGHT NOT CARRY AS MUCH WEIGHT AS
SUPPOSED. YAHYA ADDED THAT GIVEN THE OCCASION, HE WOULD
RAISE THIS IDEA WITH NURUL ISLAM AND HIS GROUP DURING
THEIR MEETING. YAHYA CONCLUDED BY REQUESTING CONSUL GENERAL
SPIVAK TO CONTACT NURUL ISLAM AND ADVISE HIM AND HIS PARTY
THAT HE (YAHYA) WOULD LOOK FORWARD TO AN EARLY MEETING.
I TOLD YAHYA THAT I WOULD PASS THE WORD ALONG.
8. FOR DACCA. UNLESS CURRENT DEVELOPMENTS HAVE INTERVENED,
OR THE DEPARTMENT HAS SECOND THOUGHTS, I SUGGEST THAT
YOU CONTACT NURUL ISLAM AND CONVEY TO HIM THE FOREGOING
INFO CONCERNING A MEETING WITH THE PRESIDENT. AS TO
ARRANGEMENTS FOR THAT MEETING I WOULD SUGGEST THAT IT
BE DONE DIRECTLY BETWEEN NURUL ISLAM AND THE PRESIDENT.
GP-2
FARLAND
SECRET
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AMTHORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
SEGAST EXDIS
CRECEIVED
WHCA
1971 NOV 3 12 19
HAK'D
SECRET
HCD 039
PAGE 01 DACCA 04750 03 1209Z
18
ACTION SS-25
INFO OCT-01 SS0-00 CCO-00 NSCE-00 /026 W
008832
OR 03 1101Z
FM AMCONSUL DACCA
TO SECSTATE WASHDC IMMEDIATE 4548
AMEMBASSY ISLAMABAD
INFO AMCONSUL CALCUTTA
AMCONSUL KARACHI
AMCONSUL LAHORE
AMEMBASSY LONDON
AMEMBASSY NEW DELHI
AMEMBASSY TEHRAN
USUN NEW YORK 217
SECRET DACCA 4750
EXDIS
SUBJECT: YAHYA - NURUL ISLAM MEETING
REF: ISLAMABAD 10927
1. I MET NURUL ISLAM TODAY IN MY RESIDENCE AND TOLD HIM
THAT PRESIDENT YAHYA HAD SAID TO AMBASSADOR FARLAND THAT
HE WOULD WELCOME AN OPPORTUNITY TO TALK TO ISLAM. I TOLD
ISLAM FURTHER THAT THE PRESIDENT WAS AWARE THAT SUBJECT
OF RELEASE OF SHEIKH MUJIB RAHMAN WAS ONE OF TOPIC THAT
ISLAM WOULD WANT TO BRING UP.
2. ISLAM SAID HE GREATLY APPRECIATED MY EFFORT AND THAT
OF AMBASSADOR FARLAND. AFTER SOME SPECULATION -- MORE INO
WYVTURE OF THINKING OUT LOUD THAN ASKING MY ADVICE - ABOUT
HOW TO SET UP MEETING, ISLAM SAID HE AND ZAHIRUDDIN
AHMAD CAL MNA-ELECT ANJSUBTMER CENTRAL MINISTER)
WOULD PROCEED TO ISLAMABAD AS SOON AS THEY COULD OBTAIN
PLANE RESERVATIONS AND GET IN TOUCH WITH PRESIDENT'S
MILITARY SECRETARY THERE. ISLAM ASKED ME WHETHER PRESIDENT'S
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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SECRET
PAGE 02 DACCA 04750 03 12 09Z
(#)
WOULD BE AWARE OF PRESIDENT'S
INTEREST IN SEEING ISLAM, AND I SAID THAT I COULD,
ONLY PRESUME THEY WOULD.
3. ISLAM SAID THAT HE WOULD SEEK OPPORTUNITY ON THIS
TRIP TO ISLAMABAD TO CALL ON AMBASSADOR. I NEITHER
ENCOURAGED NOR DISCOURAGED HIM IN THIS. GP-3.
SPIVACK
NOTE BY OC/T: DACCA 4750, # OMISSION CORRECTION TO FOLLOW.
SECRET
SECRET EXDIS
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
AIDE MEMOIRE
I.
DISPLACED PERSONS :
Mr. Kelly, representative in Dacca of the
U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees confirmed in
a meeting with the Pakistan Foreign Secretary on
September 25 that a large number of returnees had
told him that they had fled over to India because
of the general panic and that none of them had seen
a single soldier or any kind of military action in
their areas before their flight to India.
A. Actual number :
The total number of displaced persons
who left East Pakistan has been established after
a very careful district-wise survey at a little over
two million. India's claim of 9 million is highly exaggerated
and includes large numbers of vagabonds, beggers and
other poor Indians who pose as refugees for free
doles. This has been confirmed by a BBC correspondent,
Ronald Robson in a report published in the weekly
"LISTENER" on September 23. If India is honest about
her claim, why she continues to refuse verification
of the actual number of displaced persons through
the United Nations as proposed by Pakistan to U Thant.
In fact, the President of Pakistan said in a nation-wide
broadcast on October 12 that Pakistan would welcome
any international agency to assess the correct number
of displaced persons.
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- 2 -
B. Steps taken by the Government of Pakistan
to facilitate the return and rehabilitation
of the displaced persons :
(a) The President of Pakistan in a
public statement on May 21, called upon the displaced
persons to return to their homes and assured them
protection and safety;
(b) Twenty-one camps have been set up
along the East Pakistan - India border to provide
facilities and amenities for the return and
rehabilitation of the displaced persons;
(c) Pakistan has accepted various
proposals made by the U.N. Secretary-General and
U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees designed to
facilitate the return of the displaced persons. While
Pakistan accepted the U.N. Secretary-General's proposal
for stationing U.N. observers, India took a negative
and obstructive approach and rejected it;
C. India's actions which stand in the way
of the return of the displaced persons :
(a) The incessant mortar firing and
shelling over the East Pakistan border, particularly
on main routes, make it virtually impossible for
refugees to return. Most of the two hundred thousand
refugees who have so far returned have crossed into
Pakistan through irregular routes.
(b) India rejected U Thant's proposal
for U.N. observers on both sides of the border which
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- 3 -
Pakistan accepted. The presence of U.N. observers
would create confidence and a sense of safety amongst
the displaced persons;
(c) Indian leaders including Mrs. Gandhi
have declared that the displaced persons would only
be allowed to return to Mujib's "Bangla Desh". Obviously,
refugees would wait and see if India succeeds in
dismembering Pakistan:
(d) The continuance of the refugee
problem stands to benefit India vis-a-vis Pakistan
both politically and financially. Pakistan continues
to get a bad name while India gets money which is not
being used for the purpose for which it is given.
Returnees from India have stated that no medical
assistance was made available to them by the Indians.
India has also refused any international management
or coordination of international assistance:
(e) India's proposal to establish an
international consortium for aid to refugees is
designed to promote India's own political and financial
interests.
II. STEPS TAKEN BY THE GOVERNMENT OF PAKISTAN
FOR RESTORATION OF DEMOCRACY :
East Pakistan :
(a) Dr. A.M. Malik, a veteran East Pakistani
leader has taken over as the Governor of East Pakistan;
(b) A committee of experts is busy
framing a new constitution which will provide maximum
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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- 4 -
autonomy compatible with the unity of the country to
various component units, including East Pakistan;
(c) The results of the elections held in
December last have not been annulled and, in fact, all
those members who did not take part in the anti-State
and criminal activities continue to retain their respective
membership of the Provincial and National Assemblies.
Bye-elections for the seats vacated by those who committed
serious criminal offences will be held on December 20;
(d) The Government of Pakistan has granted
a general amnesty to all those who had committed or alleged
to have committed offences during the disturbances in
East Pakistan beginning from March 1, 1971. This amnesty
will also extend to personnel belonging to Armed Forces,
East Pakistan Rifles and para-military forces;
(e) A civilian representative government
comprising politicians of various political parties
including two elected members of the outlawed Awami League
was sworn in on September 17, 1971;
(f) Food situation fully under control;
industrial and economic life rapidly returning to normal.
Pakistan :
(a) The National Assembly will meet on
December 27;
(b) Soon after, power will be transferred
to a civilian elected Federal Government;
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- 5 -
(c) A Constitution drafted by a committee
of experts providing for maximum autonomy compatible
with territorial integrity of the country will be
presented to the National Assembly for approval.
The National Assembly will have every opportunity of
suggesting amendments to the Constitution. To facilitate
easy amendment, the Assembly can propose amendment
to the Constitution by a simple majority of total
number of seats in the Assembly and a consensus of
various Provinces by a minimum of 25 per cent of total
seats of each Provincial Assembly.
III. INDIAN SUPPORT FOR THE SO-CALLED "BANGLA DESH".
While the Indian leaders profess that they do
not insist on any particular solution for the political
settlement of the East Pakistan crisis (Swaran Singh
spoke to the Secretary of State Rogers on these lines
and Mrs. Gandhi might do so in her meetings with
President Nixon) all Indian actions and public
statements of Indian leaders confirm the contrary as
borne out by the following :
(a) India has stopped using the word
"East Pakistan" and instead use "East Bengal" in all
official statements and public pronouncements. In fact,
India has sought support of other countries for the
use of the word "East Bengal" in joint statements;
(b) Indian leaders have publicly
declared that the refugees will only go to "Bangla Desh"
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DECLASSIFIED
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- 6 -
which means an independent East Pakistan;
(c) Large scale military and political
support for the so-called "Bangla Desh" government
which has stated that the demand of "Bangla Desh" as
an independent state is not negotiable.
Thus India has almost accorded de-facto
recognition to "Bangla Desh".
IV. MOUNTING INDO-PAKISTAN TENSION :
India's persistent intervention in Pakistan's
internal affairs and continued violation of Pakistan's
borders through shelling, infiltration by Indian
equipped and trained infiltrators have created a
highly dangerous and explosive Indo-Pakistan situation.
The following extract from Sydney Schanberg's despatch
from Calcutta reported on the front page of the
New York Times on October 13 confirms India's violation
of all norms of International Law and U.N. Charter :
Arms Are Flowing to Calcutta,
Reported Destined for Bengalis
Guerrilla Step-up Seen
By SYDNEY H. SCHANBERG
Special to The New York Times
CALCUTTA, India, Oct. 11-
Under heavy security, several
-
special freight trains carrying
military supplies now arrive
4
here every day. The arms are
C
reported to be for the Bengali
e
guerrillas who are fighting for
8
East Pakistan's independence
1
and who seem to be preparing
;
to step up their activities
against the Pakistani army.
On the guerrilla side, the cru-
cial question is how far India is
willing to go in support of the
independence movement. So far
the Indians have been provid-
gReproduced, at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
certain amount of aDECLASSIFIED
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- 7 -
Apart from political support and military
supplies on large scale to the secessionists, India
has moved forward armoured formations of all types,
including infantry, armour and artillery all around
the borders of East Pakistan. Similarly, Indian Air
Force units have been located in positions threatening
East Pakistan.
Large numbers of units and formations of Indian
Armed Forces have also been moved close to the
borders of West Pakistan.
India's Air Force has activated airfields
closer to Pakistan in both Wings and has also moved
forward an Air Force Tactical Headquarters.
All these have created a very serious
possibility of aggression by India.
Further deterioration in Indo-Pakistan
relations must therefore be arrested and ways and
means worked out to reduce tension.
Pakistan has been willing to hold discussions
with India at any level and accepted the mediatory
efforts of the Shahinshah of Iran for Indo-Pakistan
summit talks which India rejected.
U.N. observers, as proposed by U Thant, should
be posted on both sides of the border.
A good offices mission of the U.N. Security
Council should visit areas of tension. India tries
to raise the East Pakistan situation in all the U.N.
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= 8 -
forums but shies away from U.N. good offices for
reducing tension.
The U.S. should use its influence with India
for talks between India and Pakistan and for
collaboration with the U.N. for easing tension.
V.
INNOCENT PAKISTANIS DETAINED IN INDIAN JAILS :
India has repeatedly ignored Pakistan's request
for the release of Pakistani nationals who were
compelled to cross over into India during March-April
disturbances in East Pakistan and are presently
detained in Indian jails.
The U.S. Government should take up the matter
with Mrs. Gandhi during her forthcoming visit and
impress upon her to treat this question as a
humanitarian issue and release the unfortunate
persons who are victims of circumstances beyond their
control.
*****
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
HIS EXCELLENCY MR. RICHARD M. NIXON,
PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,
WASHINGTON.
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DECLASSIFIED
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2
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THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
GENERAL HAID
Al:
Re the letter to Yahya, if it is not
possible to have it machnine-signed Sunday
but if it is clearly approved and ready
to go, could you have the text of it LDXed
to State SO that they can send it out by
telegram. The signed original will follow
by pouch in any case.
Farland sees Yahya at mignight Monday
our time SO the earlier we get it into
his hands for typing etc. th e XXX better.
Thanks.
Hal
Hal Saunders
sot.
cy LDX'd to state
Secretariat 10/30/71
per yen 7 taig
orig to he signed
monday
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
cument has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be decla
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
REVISED LETTER
October 30
TO YAHYA
1:00 p.m.
HAK:
The letter to Yahya under TAB A
of the attached package now includes all
the changes you made and those you suggested
to me on the phone this morning, notably:
--a - warm additional sentence in the
second paragraph ("burdens");
-- -eliminating praise of U Thant and
halving paragraph on his role.
I hope this is responsive to your
thoughts.
OK to send
Other
Hal
Hal Saunders
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
cument has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be decla
33804
Pres Corres
Yohyp
Prokiston
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 30, 1971
Dear Mr. President:
Thank you for your letters of October 6 and October 9
concerning the dangers to peace in South Asia. I am
grateful to you for conveying your concerns to me and
for the confidence and friendship in which your letters
were written. The Vice President has conveyed your
good wishes from Persepolis.
We share most deeply many of the concerns you have
expressed. I am keenly aware of the continuing
difficulties you face and know how much the threat of
war adds to the burdens you already bear. I have asked
Ambassador Farland to discuss with you as a concerned
friend further steps that might be taken to reduce tension.
Because of our concern for peace, we have requested
both your government and the government of India to
consider withdrawal of forces along your respective
borders as an action that would contribute to restoring
mutual confidence and reducing the risks of war. We
appreciate your prompt and positive response to this
proposal. We hope that both your government and that
of Mrs. Gandhi will keep this possibility under serious
consideration in the days ahead. Your strong desire to
avoid hostilities is most encouraging.
Nonetheless, there are still serious risks in the present
situation and hostilities could still erupt inadvertently.
Such hostilities could easily escalate with a much wider
conflict with tragic consequences for the entire South
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
- 2 -
Asian subcontinent. We therefore share your view that the
United Nations has a serious responsibility in this situation
to act in ways that will help reduce tensions and begin the
difficult task of building a lasting peace in that area.
For those reasons we have welcomed the initiatives taken
by the United Nations in recent months, both those designed
to reduce the risk of conflict and those in the field of
humanitarian relief. I know of the Secretary General's
very recent letter to you and Mrs. Gandhi, and I welcome
the tenor of your response to that letter. We intend to be
in close touch with the Secretary General, with your
government, and with the government of India to consider
ways in which these initiatives might be followed through.
Meanwhile, I have asked Ambassador Farland to talk with
you about what might be a feasible next step toward
beginning the withdrawal of forces from their dangerous
border positions. I know the importance you attach to
enlisting the maximum degree of participation by the
elected representatives of the people of East Pakistan.
I also believe you agree that this process is essential to
restoring those conditions in the Eastern wing of your
country which will end the flow of refugees into India and
achieve a viable political accommodation among all the
people of Pakistan.
We have recently said farewell to Ambassador Hilaly who
has completed more than five years of dedicated service
to the cause of friendship between our two countries. I
want you to know how much we have appreciated his wise
counsel and understanding and how much I have enjoyed
my relationship with him.
Sincerely,
His Excellency
General Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan
President of Pakistan
President's House
Rawalpindi, Pakistan
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
I
Executive Order determined to be declassified
33804
MEMORANDUM
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
ACTION
LDX #395
SECRET
Odober 29, 1971
MEMORANDUM FOR:
DR. KISSINGER
FROM:
HAROLD H. SAUNDERS 7tal
SUBJECT:
Letter to Yahya
Attached is a final version of the letter to Yahya with the more
personal touch you requested this morning.
In order to get Farland in to see Yahya in time to get a reply to us
before Mrs. Gandhi arrives as you suggest, we ought to get this on
the wire tonight.
RECOMMENDATION: That you seek the President's signature
tonight via the attached.
SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ACTION
LDX 395
November 1, 1971
SECRET/NODIS
MEMORANDUM FOR:
THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
HENRY A. KISSINGER
SUBJECT:
Letter to President Yahya
President Yahya has written you two recent notes:
1.
One (at Tab B) called your attention to India's "persistent
intervention" in Pakistan's internal affairs and "refusal" to resolve
the humanitarian problem of the displaced persons with the help and
assistance of the UN as originally proposed by Dr. Kissinger during
his talks with me last July. He notes that Indian armed forces had
moved forward. He underscores the need to bring the situation under
control. He notes that these Indian moves have taken place since the
signing of the Indo-Soviet treaty despite Soviet assurances that Moscow
was urging restraint. He asked our help in facilitating urgent con-
sideration by the UN Security Council or some other international action
if you thought that more helpful.
2.
A. second (Tab C) was written to lay out the Pakistani position
before Mrs. Gandhi's visit here. In addition to expressing thanks for
your sympathy, he described the Indian military moves which have been
reported to you. He states concern about Indian offensive action and
about continuing infiltration into East Pakistan. He describes the steps
taken and planned for transferring power to an elected government. He
urges you to impress on Mrs. Gandhi the need for "urgent constructive
steps" to prevent further deterioration.
The suggested reply at Tab A would be sent with instructions to Ambassador
Farland to seek from Yahya the most forthcoming statement possible on
ways of reducing tension for our use with Mrs. Gandhi:
--Instead of a Security Council meeting, we have already discussed
with Yahya the idea of a pullback of military forces from the
border, and he has picked it up. Farland would ask whether he
might pull a couple of units back on his own.
SECRET/NODIS
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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SECRET/NODIS
- 2 -
-- On the political side, Farland would ask what can be said
about Yahya's plans for autonomy in East Pakistan in the new
constitution that is being drafted.
The letter at Tab A is a friendly general statement of our desire to
help reduce tensions and an introduction to the subjects Farland would
take up in detail.
RECOMMENDATION: That you sign the letter at Tab A.
SECRET/NODIS
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
CONFIDENTIAL
MEMORANDUM FOR:
Mr. Theodore L. Eliot, Jr.
Executive Secretary
Department of State
SUBJECT:
Letter from President Yahya of Pakistan
The attached documents were delivered to the White House today
by the Pakistani Charge and are forwarded to the Department
for information:
--A letter from President Yahya dated October 9.
--An Aide Memoire prepared by the Charge.
Both of these were delivered with the statement that they were
designed to help in US preparations for Prime Minister Gandhi's
visit.
Could we have the Department's recommendation for a reply to
President Yahya's letter?
Jeanne W. Davis
Staff Secretary
CONFIDENTIAL
HHSaunders :tmt 10/19/71
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
B
TOP SECRET
Text of message to His Excellency Mr. Richard M. Nixon,
President of the United States of America, from
General Agha Mohammad Yahya Khan, President of the
Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
Begins:
"Mr. President,
"Persistent intervention in my country's internal
affairs by India, its refusal to resolve the humanitarian
problem of the displaced persons with the help and assistance
of the United Nations as originally proposed by Dr. Kissinger
during his talks with me last July, later formally proposed
by U Thant, and promptly accepted by us, and the increasing
violations of Pakistan's borders by the Indian Armed Forces,
have created a warlike situation between Pakistan and India.
"Moreover, all available evidence indicates that
Indian Armed Forces have been put in a state of readiness and
moved to forward positions for offensive action at short notice
against our frontiers in both the wings.
2.
"In these circumstances, and because India has
rejected the United Nations observers and good offices, the
present situation in the India-Pakistan sub-continent
constitutes a threat to international peace and security
and an armed conflict between the two countries is likely
to erupt if it is not brought under control immediately. It,
therefore, appears appropriate that the United Nations
Security Council should consider this matter in order to
avert in time the impending blood-shed and destruction.
/3
DECLASSIFIED
E.O. 13526, Section 3.5
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
NLN10-1311167 Perttr. 812112014
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to By be
DM/MH NARA, Date 12/19/2011
OF 2.7
- : 2 :-
3.
"In our discussions with the Russians in Moscow
last month, they conveyed assurances that India would not
start a conflict and added that they were exercising restrain-
ing influence on India. Unfortunately, the facts are quite
different. The bulk of Indian Forces have moved in
operational positions against our borders after the signing
of Indo-Soviet Treaty and there has also been a marked
increase in shelling and raids on our territory since then.
Apparently, the Indians are either not amenable to Soviet
advice or are deliberately misleading them.
4.
"Confident of the friendship between our two
countries and your personal concern for peace in the region,
I would request that the United States Government extend
the necessary help and assistance to my country in this
grave hour with a view to facilitating an urgent considera-
tion of the situation by the Security Council and for a
constructive decision and positive action by it.
5.
"In case, Mr. President, you deem that some other
course of international action at this stage would be more
helpful, I shall be grateful to be apprised of it. It only
remains for me to assure you that we repose the utmost
confidence in your judgement.
"With warm personal regards."
Ends.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to NLN be declassified 2 OF 2
XXXXX
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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From : Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan, H.Pk, H.J.,
President of Pakistan
PRESIDENT'S HOUSE,
RAWALPINDI.
October 9 , 1971.
Your Excellency,
I write to express the sense of gratitude
of the Government and the people of Pakistan for your
sympathetic understanding of our difficulties during
the recent crisis. We also appreciate your Government's
continuing interest in the affairs of the sub-continent,
particularly, its concern for the well-being of the
people and for the preservation of stability and peace
in the area. In this context, may I state briefly,
Mr. President, the latest position on the state of affairs
in the sub-continent. In an already tense situation
India's Land, Sea and Air Forces have been brought to
a state of confrontation against Pakistan's frontiers
in both the wings.
There are 7 divisions of the Indian Army which
are deployed against West Pakistan and additional forces
have been put in a state of readiness to move to forward
positions at short notice.
A total of nearly 8 divisions have encircled
East Pakistan.
Substantial forward moves have taken place
from the rear to the forward operational positions in
the last few weeks. In addition, the deployment of Indian
Forces on the Sino-Indian borders have been rearranged
in a manner that these could be simultaneously utilized
in an offensive against Pakistan's frontiers as well.
The Indian Air Force has activated and
occupied forward airfields and special facilities and
stock-piling have been carried out. Tactical air-centres
have also been established near Pakistan's frontier.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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-: 2 :-
A total of nearly 26 squadrons, inclusive
of supersonic aircrafts, are today positioned against
Pakistan. There is a virtual combat air ring around
East Pakistan for offensive purposes.
The Indian Navy has been put to a state
of war - preparedness with sixty percent of its forces
deployed against the coasts of West Pakistan. The
remaining strength of the Indian Navy is positioned
to move against the shores of East Pakistan.
Mr. President, the inevitable conclusion
that one can draw from this offensive posture of the
Indian Armed Forces is that it is pointed in the
direction of conflict and not of peace. Our concern
is all the more grave since India has shown no
inclination to give up its policy of instigating
and assisting armed infiltration into East Pakistan.
It continues to support, train, and launch rebels and
insurgents who seek the dismemberment and destruction
of Pakistan. I am constrained to say that if this
state of affairs continues it may lead to dangerous
consequences; a situation which we in Pakistan - and
I am sure all the friends of Pakistan and India,
particularly, the United States - would wish to avoid.
It is most unfortunate that to justify its
aggressive posture, India continues to exploit the
humanitarian question of displaced persons. As you
perhaps know, Mr. President, my Government has taken
several constructive steps for the return and speedy
rehabilitation of these persons who are our own kith
and kin. This contrasts sharply with India's totally
negative attitude and leaves us with no doubt that
India does not wish an amicable settlement of this
problem.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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-: 3 :-
I would wish to add that the political
situation in Pakistan is rapidly progressing towards
the objective I have set out for transfering power
to the elected representatives of the people. I have
already taken some decisive steps, including the
appointment of a civilian Governor in East Pakistan,
fixing a time schedule for holding bye-elections
in December this year, declaration of general amnesty
and release of detained persons. These efforts towards
the civilianisation of provincial government in East
Pakistan have evoked a highly favourable response from
the people. In addition, the food situation in the
province is fully under control and the industrial
and economic life is rapidly returning to normal. A
very healthy improvement in the atmosphere in East
Pakistan is thus discernible.
Mr. President, since you have always taken
a keen personal interest in the preservation of peace
in the sub-continent, I do hope that you would share
my belief that whether it be for the creation of a
climate conducive to the return of the displaced
persons, or for the normalisation of situation, it is
essential that India and Pakistan should work out
necessary ways and means to reduce tension and allow
normalcy to return at the earliest. Having this in
mind, may I urge you to impress upon the Government of
India the need for urgent constructive steps with a
view to arresting further deterioration of the situation
in the sub-continent. As I have always maintained,
war will solve nothing. I, therefore, earnestly hope
that wise counsels would prevail in India and the
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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- 4 -
Indian leaders would exercise restraint and caution
in this highly surcharged atmosphere. I would request
you, Mr. President, personally to take up this matter
in your talks with the Indian Prime Minister during her
forthcoming visit to Washington. On my part, I shall
welcome any constructive suggestion that you may wish
to offer in this regard.
With warm personal regards,
(A.M. Yahya Khan)
His Excellency
Mr. Richard Nixon,
President,
United States of America,
WASHINGTON.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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HIS EXCELLENCY
MR. RICHARD NIXON,
PRESIDENT,
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,
WASHINGTON.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
DOC
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STAFF SECRETARY
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Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
* GPO: 1971-412-412
DECLASSIFIED
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DEPAI
STATE
Department of Sta
of STATES MY AMERICA UNITED
TELEGRAM
(21)
SECRET
446
S
PAGE 01 STATE 191555
12
12
ORIGIN SS-25
INFO OCT-01 /026 R
66635
DRAFTED BY: NEA:CVANHOLLEN
ANDERSON
APPROVED BY: NEA-CHRISTOPHERVANHOLLEN
BEHR
NEA/PAF-LAINGEN
BERGSTEN
S/S*MILLER
CHAPIN
WHITE HOUSE=DAVIS B.
HOLDRIDGE
KENNEDY
034659
S
LEHMAN
RI 192159Z OCT 71
FM SECSTATE WASHDC
NACHMANOFF
TO AMEMBASSY ISLAMABAD
ROBINSON
RONDON
INFO AMEMBASSY NEW DELHI
SAUNDERS
AMCONSUL DACCA
SMITH
SMYSER
SECR EST STATE 191555
SONNENFELDT
WRIGHT
EXDIS:
SUBJECT: YAHYA LETTER TO PRESIDENT NIXON
D/W
Carole
FOLLOWING IS TEXT OF LETTER FROM PRES YAHYA TO PRESI-
DENT NIXON DTD OCT 9, DELIVERED TO WHITE HOUSE OCT 19
P.C.-
S
BY PAKISTANI DCM FAROOQI:
BEGIN TEXT YOUR EXCELLENCY
I WRITE TO EXPRESS THE SENSE OF GRATITUDE OF THE GOVERN-
MENT AND THE PEOPLE OF PAKISTAN FOR YOUR SYMPATHETIC UN-
DERSTANDING OF OUR DIFFICULTIES DURING THE RECENT CRISIS.
WE ALSO APPRECIATE YOUR GOVERNMENT'S CONTINUING INTEREST
IN THE AFFAIRS OF THE SUB-CONTINENT, PARTICULARLY, ITS
CONCERN FOR THE WELL.BEING OF THE PEOPLE AND FOR THE PRE-
SERVATION OF STABILITY AND PEACE IN THE AREA. IN THIS
CONTEXT, MAY I STATE BRIEFLY: MR PRESIDENT, THE LATEST
POSITION ON THE STATE OF AFFAIRS IN THE SUB-CONTINENT
IN AN ALREADY TENSE SITUATION INDIA'S LAND, SEA AND AIR
S
FORCES HAVE BEEN BROUGHT TO A STATE OF CONFRONTATION
AGAINST PAKISTAN'S FRONTIERS IN BOTH THE WINGS.
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
5
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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STATE
I epartment of Star
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
TELEGRAM
SECRET
S
PAGE 02 STATE 191555
THERE ARE 7 DIVISIONS OF THE INDIAN ARMY WHICH ARE DE -
PLOYED AGAINST WEST PAKISTAN AND ADDITIONAL FORCES HAVE
BEEN PUT IN A STATE OF READINESS: TO MOVE TO FORWARD POSI-
TIONS AT SHORT NOTICE.
A TOTAL OF NEARLY 8 DIVISIONS HAVE ENCIRCLED EAST PAKISTAN.
SUBSTANTIAL FORWARD MOVES HAVE TAKEN PLACE FROM THE REAR
TO THE FORWARD OPERATIONAL POSITIONS IN THE LAST FEW
WEEKS IN ADDITION, THE DEPLOYMENT OF INDIAN FORCES ON
THE SINO-INDIAN BORDERS HAVE BEEN REARRANGED IN A MANNER
S
THAT THESE COULD BE SIMULTANEOUSLY UTILIZED IN AN OFFENSIVE
AGAINST PAKISTAN'S FRONTIERS AS WELL.
THE INDIAN AIR FORCE HAS ACTIVATED AND OCCUPIED FORWARD
AIRFIELDS AND SPECIAL FACILITIES AND STOCKPILING HAVE
BEEN CARRIED OUT. TACTICAL AIR-CENTRES HAVE ALSO BEEN
ESTABLISHED NEAR PAKISTAN'S FRONTIER.
A TOTAL OF NEARLY 26 SQUADRONS, INCLUSIVE OF SUPERSONIC
AIRCRAFTS, ARE TODAY POSITIONED AGAINST PAKISTAN. THERE IS
A VIRTUAL COMBAT AIR RING AROUND EAST PAKISTAN FOR OFFEN-
SIVE PURPOSES.
THE INDIAN NAVY HAS BEEN PUT TO A STATE OF WAR PREPAREDNESS
WITH SIXTY PERCENT OF ITS FORCES DEPLOYED AGAINST THE
COASTS OF WEST PAKISTAN. THE REMAINING STRENGTH OF THE
INDIAN NAVY IS POSITIONED TO MOVE AGAINST THE SHORES OF
EAST PAKISTAN.
MRI PRESIDENT, THE INEVITABLE CONCLUSION THAT ONE CAN
DRAW FROM THIS OFFENSIVE POSTURE OF THE INDIAN ARMED
FORCES IS THAT IT IS POINTED IN THE DIRECTION OF CONFLICT
AND NOT OF PEACE. OUR CONCERN IS ALL THE MORE GRAVE SINCE
INDIA HAS SHOWN NO INCLINATION TO GIVE UP ITS POLICY OF
INSTIGATING AND ASSISTING ARMED INFILTRATION INTO EAST
PAKISTAN. IT CONTINUES TO SUPPORT, TRAIN, AND LAUNCH REBELS
AND INSURGENTS WHO SEEK THE DISMEMBERMENT AND DESTRUCTION
OF PAKISTAN. I AM CONSTRAINED TO SAY THAT IF THIS STATE
OF AFFAIRS CONTINUES IT MAY LEAD TO DANGEROUS CONSEQUENCES:
A SITUATION WHICH WE IN PAKISTAN--AND I AM SURE ALL THE
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION SECRET OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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STATE
Lepartment of Stare
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
TELEGRAM
SECRET
S
PAGE 03 STATE 191555
FRIENDS OF PAKISTAN AND INDIA, PARTICULARLY, THE UNITED
STATES- WOULD WISH TO AVOID.
IT IS MOST UNFORTUNATE THAT TO JUSTIFY ITS AGGRESSIVE
POSTURE, INDIA CONTINUES To EXPLOIT THE HUMANITARIAN QUES-
TION OF DISPLACED PERSONS. AS YOU PERHAPS KNOW, MR PRESI-
DENT, MY GOVERNMENT HAS TAKEN SEVERAL CONSTRUCTIVE STEPS
FOR THE RETURN AND SPEEDY REHABILITATION OF THESE PERSONS
WHO ARE OUR OWN KITH AND KIN. THIS CONTRASTS SHARPLY WITH
INDIA'S TOTALLY NEGATIVE ATTITUDE AND LEAVES US WITH NO
DOUBT THAT INDIA DOES NOT WISH AN AMICABLE SETTLEMENT OF
THIS PROBLEM.
S
I WOULD WISH TO ADD THAT THE POLITICAL SITUATION IN PAKIS-
TAN IS RAPIDLY PROGRESSING TOWARDS THE OBJECTIVE I HAVE
SET OUT FOR TRANSFERING POWER TO THE ELECTED REPRESENTA
TIVES OF THE PEOPLE. I HAVE ALREADY TAKEN SOME DECISIVE
STEPS, INCLUDING THE APPOINTMENT OF A CIVILIAN GOVERNOR
IN EAST PAKISTAN, FIXING A TIME SCHEDULE FOR HOLDING BYE-
ELECTIONS IN DECEMBER THIS YEAR, DECLARATION OF GENERAL
AMNESTY AND RELEASE OF DETAINED PERSONS. THESE EFFORTS
TOWARDS THE CIVILIANISATION OF PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT IN
EAST PAKISTAN HAVE EVOKED A HIGHLY FAVOURABLE RESPONSE
FROM THE PEOPLE. IN ADDITION, THE FOOD SITUATION IN THE
PROVINCE IS FULLY UNDER CONTROL AND THE INDUSTRIAL AND
ECONOMIC LIFE IS RAPIDLY RETURNING TO NORMAL. A VERY
S
HEALTHY IMPROVEMENT IN THE ATMOSPHERE IN EAST PAKISTAN IS
THUS DISCERNIBLE.
MR PRESIDENT, SINCE YOU HAVE ALWAYS TAKEN A KEEN PERSONAL
INTEREST IN THE PRESERVATION OF PEACE IN THE SUB CONTINENT,
I DO HOPE THAT YOU WOULD SHARE MY BELIEF THAT WHETHER IT
BE FOR THE CREATION OF A CLIMATE CONDUCIVE TO THE RETURN OF
THE DISPLACED PERSONS, OR FOR THE NORMALISATION OF SITUA-
TION, IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT INDIA AND PAKISTAN SHOULD WORK OUT
NECESSARY WAYS AND MEANS TO REDUCE TENSION AND ALLOW NOR-
MALCY TO RETURN AT THE EARLIEST. HAVING THIS IN MIND, MAY
I URGE YOU TO IMPRESS UPON THE GOVERNMENT OF INDIA THE
NEED FOR URGENT CONSTRUCTIVE STEPS WITH A VIEW TO ARREST-
ING FURTHER DETERIORATION OF THE SITUATION IN THE SUB-CON-
TINENT. AS I HAVE ALWAYS MAINTAINED, WAR WILL SOLVE
S
NOTHING. ID THEREFORE, EARNESTLY HOPE THAT WISE COUNSELS
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THESRORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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DEPARTMENT
STATE
Department of Sta.e
STATES AMERICA UNITED
TELEGRAM
OF
SECRET
S
PAGE 04 STATE 191555
WOULD PREVAIL IN INDIA AND THE INDIAN LEADERS WOULD EXER-
CISE RESTRAINT AND CAUTION IN THIS: HIGHLY SURCHARGED
TMOSPHERE. I WOULD REQUEST YOU, MR PRESIDENT, PERSONALLY
TO TAKE UP THIS MATTER IN YOUR TALKS WITH THE INDIAN PRIME
MINISTER DURING HER FORTHCOMING VISIT TO WASHINGTON.
ON MY PART, I SHALL WELCOME ANY CONSTRUCTIVE SUGGESTION THAT
YOU MAY WISH TO OFFER IN THIS REGARD.
WITH WARM PERSONAL REGARDS, A.M. YAHYA KHAN END TEXT ROGERS
S
S
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE SECRETIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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/
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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Roberts
your file meh pls.
TOP SECRET/SENSITIVE
December 2, 1971
MEMORANDUM FOR
THE SECRETARY OF STATE
Attached is a communication just received from the Government
of Pakistan. The President has requested that a draft reply be
prepared on a most urgent basis for his consideration tomorrow
morning.
15/
Henry A. Kissinger
Attachment
TOP SECRET/SENSITIVE
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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F
n: Nawabzada A.M. Raza,
HQA, HK, SPk.
EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN
2315 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20008
DC
AMBASSADOR OF PAKISTAN
November 30, 1971.
My dear Dr Kissinger
I am sending herewith a cutting of an item
from the Evening Star of today headlined "Pakistan Concedes
Losses as Warfare Intensifies". The item is date-lined
Calcutta. If you allow me, I would like to draw your
attention to the underlined portions. It is interesting to
know that Mrs. Gandhi is now demanding that we
withdraw all our troops from East Pakistan. Tomorrow
she will demand that Pakistan army should be disbanded.
Is the world still going to take it lying down?
with kin distrugards
Jus Suncerely
Honourable
are naza
Dr Henry A. Kissinger,
The White House,
Washington D.C.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
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Pakistan Concedes™ Losses
As Warfare Intensifies
By HENRY S. BRADSHER
ginning to be matched by Paki-
signs of declaring this to be an
Star Staff Writer
stani admissions of reverses.
all-out war with India and wid-
CALCUTTA Both India
However, Indian claims for the
ening it to their western bor-
and Pakistan report that fight-
Mukti Bahini (Freedom Army)
ders. Observers still are uncer-
ing is intensifying in East Paki-
are running far ahead of admis-
tain whether President A. M.
stan into the second week of
sions of losses by what Pakistan
Yahya Khan might still choose
S.
a major offensive supported by
says are Indian army troops.
to do this rather than accepting
Bangla Desh forces, but conflict-
Despite mounting military
a disadvantageous limited war
ing claims obscure the situation.
pressure and increasing guerril-
in East Pakistan.
Some Indian claims of ad-
la activity around Dacca, the
"Proxy War" Indicated
vances by rebel forces are be-
Pakistani government shows no
The problem facing Yahya
Khan is, that a broader war,
which he has often said would
result from exactly the kind of
situation that has developed in
the East within the last 10 days,
would also be to his disadvan-
age. Whether he is only hesitat-
ing or intends to avoid it re-
mains unclear.
THE EVENING STAR
But India's determination to
Washington, D. C., Tuesday, November 30, 1971
go ahead with a proxy war
against Pakistan is repeatedly
made clear.
While Yahya Khan appeals for
United Nations observers on his
side of the border in confident
expectation that they would find
India violating international law,
India quite bluntly is uninterest-
ed in the legal technicalities of
its effort to establish an inde-
pendent Bangla Desh govern-
ment SO some 10 million refu-
gees in India will return home.
(In New Delhi, Prime Minister
Indira Gandhi demanded today
the withdrawal of Pakistani
troops from East Pakistan, say-
ing their presence "is a threat to
our security," the Associated
Press reported.
(Mrs. Gandhi told Parliament
that a Pakistani withdrawal was
the only way to peace and indi-
cated India would continue to
send troops across the border.
("We cannot allow annihila-
tion of people next door," she
said "and this must be clearly
understood by the world."
(While declaring that the with-
drawal of Pakistani troops from
East Pakistan would be a ges-
ture of peace by the Pakistan
government, Mrs. Gandhi
warned that there was no magic
solution to the crisis.
(For the second time in three
days, Mrs. Gandhi opposed any
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive DECLASSIFIED Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
TOP SECRET
EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN
2315 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20008
x811
&2ml
December 2, 1971.
AMBASSADOR OF pakistan
TEXT OF THE MOST IMMEDIATE MESSAGE FROM
HIS EXCELLENCY GENERAL AGHA MUHAMMAD YAHYA KHAN,
PRESIDENT OF PAKISTAN TO HIS EXCELLENCY
RICHARD M. NIXON, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED
STATES OF AMERICA.
BEGINS:
Dear Mr. President,
I write to thank you most sincerely for your
letter of November 27 which was delivered to me by
Ambassador Farland. I deeply appreciate the measures
taken by you to counsel restraint and to promote a
withdrawal of forces. I especially take note of your
kind offer to consider suggestions from my government
and to discuss with you measures that will help reduce
the risk of further conflict in South Asia. It is in
this spirit that I address these few lines to you now.
As you are aware, I have done my utmost to
resolve the problem with India peacefully. I have gone
more than half way. I have done my best to keep the
clashes localised and confined to East Pakistan.
DECLASSIFIED
E.O. 13526, Section 3.5
NLN 10-13/11688 Per tr. Per 8/21/2014
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
By Date 12/19/2011
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
[P.10F3]
TOP SECRET
EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN
2315 MASSACHUSETTS avenue, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20008
AMBASSADOR OF pakistan
- 2 -
Ambassador Farland and Raza are being kept informed of
developments and the evolving military situation.
Unfortunately India has chosen the path of war, aided
and abetted by Soviet Union, in a bid to break up my
country. Time is fast running out and the choice before
me has, indeed, become very limited.
I have, therefore, been seriously considering
to make an approach to you for a final attempt to avert
the impending catastrophe. I do so now.
The advice given to the Indian Prime Minister
and indications of the U.S. opposition to any rash actions
by India have apparently proved futile. Gesture such as
the stoppage of two million dollars worth of arms supplies
to India or delay in the signing of PL-480 and development
loans are unlikely to change the Indian attitude at this
stage. Therefore, I request for urgent consideration,
Mr. President, of the following measures :
a) issuance of a personal statement by you,
condemning India's aggression, aided and abetted by the
Soviet Union, and calling for an immediate end to hostilities
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified 10-13/1168
NLN
88
2
OF
3
TOP SECRET
EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN
2315 MASSACHUSETTS avenue, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20008
xall
$2ml
AMBASSADOR OF pakistan
- 3 -
and withdrawal of opposing forces to safe distance
behind their respective borders;
b) issuance of a statement by you strongly
advising Soviet Union to desist from militarily supporting
India in its aggression against Pakistan;
c) your agreement to my invoking Article I of
the Pakistan-United States Bilateral Agreement of
Co-operation signed on 5th March 1959 and meeting my
request for military assistance in accordance with the
provisions of this Agreement.
Mr. President, Pakistan is determined to resist
aggression launched by India which has enormous superiority
of arms and equipment over us. The Russian involvement
consisting of massive supplies of sophisticated arms
to India has made our task much more difficult. Pakistan
must, therefore, enlist powerful and tangible support of
its friends in keeping with the solemn agreements signed
with them, to meet this formidable challenge.
I shall be most anxiously awaiting your reply.
With warm personal regards,
Agha Muhammad Yahya Khan, H.Pk., H.J.
ENDS.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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P.
3
OF
3
MOST IMMEDIATE
MIZZ
millio
LLWIS ,
His Excellency
Richard M. Nixon,
President of the United States of America,
The White House,
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
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DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Department of State
D
UNITED STATES OF AMERICAN
TELEGRAM
SECRET
HAK'D
0 P 270101Z NOV 71 ZFF4
FM SECSTATE WASHDC
6846Q
S
TO RUQVGM/AMEMBASSY ISLAMABAD IMMEDIATE 6783
Nov 26, 8:01 PM 1971
INFO RUSBAE/AMEMBASSY NEW DELHI PRIORITY 6341
RUEHMO/AMEMBASSY MOSCOW PRIORITY 7681
RUDIC/AMEMBASSY LONDON 5799
RUEHDT/USMISSION USUN NY 2114
RUQVAN/AMEMBASSY TEHRAN 0348
RUSBTA/AMCONSUL CALCUTTA 2341
RUMTDA/AMCONSUL DACCA 4657
BT
NODIS
SECRET STATE 214925
"71 NOV 27 AM 9:27 27
NODIS
FOR AMBASSADOR FARLAND
SUBJ: PRESIDENTIAL MESSAGE TO PRESIDENT YAHYA
REF: STATE 212620
SOONEST. 1. THIS CABLE CONTAINS PRESIDENTIAL LETTER TO YAHYA FOR DELIVERY
2. AS YOU WILL SEE FROM SEPTELS PRESIDENT HAS WRITTEN TO MRS.
GANDHI AND PM KOSYGIN TO URG E THAT INDIA AGREE PROMPTLY TO
TALKS WITH PAKISTAN LOOKING TOWARDS MUTUAL WITHDRAWAL OF forces.
IN PRESENTING PRESIDENT'S LETTER TO YAHYA, YOU should STRESS
THAT WE HAVE URG ED GOI TO NAME A REPRESENTATIVE PROMPTLY WHO
COULD TALK TO A REPRESENTATIVE NAMED BY YAHYA ON HOW TO ACHIEVE
200-0
MUTUAL WITHDRAWALS. YOU SHOULD ALSO TELL YAHYA THAT WE HAVE ALSO
INDICATED TO GOI WILLINGNESS OF YAHYA TO TAKE FIRST STEP IN
THIS REGARD, PROVIDED THERE IS ASSURANCE OF AN INDIAN RESPONSE.
YOU will ALSO WANT TO TELL PRESIDENT YAHYA THAT WE ARE INFORMING
MRS. GANDHI OF WILLINGNESS EXPRESSED TO YOU BY YAHYA IN YOUR
CONVERSATION NOVEMBER 26 (ISLAMABAD 11710) TO CONSIDER UN OBSERVERS
ON PAK SIDE OF EAST PAK borders.
3. FOR YOUR INFORMATION WE BELIEVE GOI AND GOP HIGH LEVEL MILITARY
REPRESENTATIVES ARE BEST WAY TO PROCEED: WE DO NOT WANT TO GET
INTO MIDDLE OF TRYING TO work OUT DETAILS OF DISENGAGEMENT.
THIS HAS TO BE DONE ON GROUND BY MILITARY REPS OF TWO GOVERNMENTS.
4. TEXT OF LETTER TO YAHYA FOLLOWS:
SECRET
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED at the DECLASSIFIED Richard Nixon Presidential Library OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
NODIS
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Department of State
UNITED OFFICE STATES OF AMERICAN
TELEGRAM
SECRET
-2- STATE 214925, November 26, 1971
QUOTE DEAR MR. PRESIDENT:
THANK YOU FOR YOUR LETTER OF NOVEMBER 22 IN WHICH YOU DESCRIBE
THE DEEPENING CONFLICT ALONG YOUR COUNTRY'S EASTERN BOARDERS
WITH INDIA. I AM GRATEFUL TO YOU FOR THE CONTINUED FRIENDSHIP
AND CANDOR IN OUR RELATIONSHIP WHICH YOUR LETTER REPRESENTS. YOU
N
KNOW THE IMPORTANCE I ATTACH TO THIS.
I AM ESPECIALLY GRATEFIED TO HAVE REAFFIRMATION OF YOUR STRONG
O
DESIRE TO AVOID WHAT YUU so WISELY SAY WOULD BE A SENSELESS AND
DESTRUCTIVE WAR WITH INDIA. I HAVE ASKED AMBASSADOR FARLAND TO
CONVEY TO YOU DIRECTLY WHAT WE HAVE BEEN TRYING TO DO RECENTLY,
D
AS FRIENDS OF BOTH PAKISTAN AND INDIA, TO COUNSEL RESTRAINT,
TO ACCOMPLISH A WITHDRAWAL OF FORCES, AND TO CONTRIBUTE TO A
LESSENING OF TENSIONS. I HAVE MADE CLEAR TO THE GOVERNMENT OF
INDIA THAT THE PEOPLE AND GOVERNMENT OF THIS COUNTRY WOULD NOT
UNDERSTAND IT IF INDIAN ACTIONS LED TO BROAD SCALE HOSTILITIES.
WE ARE ALSO CONTINUING TO MAKE OUR VIEWS KNOWN ON THIS TO THE SOVIETS
S
,
AT THE HIGHEST level.
MR. PRESIDENT, MY GOVERNMENT INTENDS 10 CONTINUE AS A CONCERNED
FRIEND OF PAKISTAN TO ACT IN WAYS THAT HOPEFULLY MIGHT help PREVENT
WAR BETWEEN YOUR COUNTRY AND INDIA.
N
I HAVE ASKED AMBASSADOR FARLAND TO KEEP IN CLOSEST TOUCH WITH YOU
AND YOUR ASSOCIATES IN THE DAYS AHEAD. WE will WELCOME ANY
SUGGESTION YOUR GOVERNMENT MAY WISH TO DISCUSS WITH U THAT WILL
202-0
help REDUCE THE RISK OF FURTHER CONFLICT IN SOUTH ASIA.
WITH WARM REGARDS, RICHARD M. NIXON. UNQUOTE. GP-3 IRWIN
BT
Drafted by: NEA/PAF - L B Laingen
Approved by: Acting Secretary
Cleared by: NEA Mr Van Hollen
NEA Mr Sisco
S/S - Mr Miller
White House - Mr Kissinger
SECRET
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED produced the Richard Nixon Presidential tibrany OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Department of State
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
TELEGRAM
11
SECRET 176
PAGE 01 STATE 212620
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SECRET STATE 212620
EXDIS
DELIVER OPENING OF BUSINESS
S
FOLLOWING IS TEXT OF LETTER FROM PRES YAHYA TO PRESIDENT
NIXON DELIVERED BY PAK EMB ON NOV 23 A.M.,
QUOTE MR. PRESIDENT
I AM ADDRESSING THIS MESSAGE TO YOU WITH A DEEP SENSE OF
URGENCY IN VIEW OF THE GRAVE SITUATION WHICH HAS ARISEN
IN MY COUNTRY AS A RESULT OF UNPROVOKED AND LARGE SCALE
ATTACKS BY INDIAN ARMED FORCES INTO VARIOUS PARTS OFI
PAKISTAN.
ON NOV 21 AN INDIAN ARMY BRIGADE GROUP SUPPORTED BY ARMED
HELICOPTERS INGRESSED INTO CHITTAGONG HILL TRACTS OVER-
RUNNING OUR BORDER OUT-POSTS AND INGRESSING APPROXIMATELY
S
10 MILES IN OUR TERRITORY.
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE SECRORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Department of State
UNITED STATES AMERICANT
TELEGRAM
OF
SECRET
PAGE 02 STATE 212620
ON THE SAME DAY, ANOTHER BRIGADE GROUP OF 23RD INDIAN
DIVISION LAUNCHED AN ATTACK IN THE BELONIA SALIENT OF
NOAKHALI DISTRICT PUSHING 8 MILES DEEPI INTO PAKISTANI
TERRITORY, SUPPORTED BY THE REST OF THE DIVISION.
IN THE BRAHMAMBARIA SUBDIVISION ALSO ON NOV 21 ATTACKS
WERE LAUNCHED BY A BATTALION GROUP EACH FROM 57TH DIVI-
SION AGAINST TWO OF OUR BORDER POSTS AT MUKANDPUR AND
SALDANDI WHICH WERE OVER-RUN.
IN SYLHET DISTRICT MAULVI BAZAR SUBDIVISION, TWO BATTA-
LION GROUPS ATTACKED AND OVER-RAN BORDER OUT-POSTS AT
DHALAI, ATHERAM AND ZAKIGAUJ. THE BATTALION GROUPS IN-
CLUDED TWO COMPANIES OF GURKHAS.
ON NOV 21, ANOTHER ATTACK WAS LAUNCHED IN RANGPUR DISTRICT
IN THE BURANGAMARI SALIENT WHERE AN INDIAN BRIGADE GROUP
PENETRATED 15 MILES INTO PAKISTAN TERRITORY UPI TO NAGESHWARI.
ON THE SAME DAY IN JESSORE DISTRICT, A MAJORI OFFENSIVE WAS
LAUNCHED BY A BRIGADE GROUP OF 9TH INDIAN DIVISION SUP-
PORTED BY ARMOR AND AIR COVER. THE ATTACK WAS LAUNCHED
OPPOSITE CHAUGACHA AND INDIAN-TANKS PENETRATED ABOUT 8
MILES INTO PAKISTAN TERRITORY.
THE INDIAN AIR ATTACK WAS CHALLENGED BY PAKISTAN AIR
FORCE. ONE INDIAN AIRCRAFT WAS DESTROYED AND WE LOST
TWO. SIX INDIAN TANKS WERE DESTROYED IN THE ENGAGEMENT
AND EIGHT OF OURS WERE DESTROYED.
INTERMITTENT SHELLING OF JESSORE AIRFIELD CONTINUES.
IN MYMENSINGH DISTRICT REPEATED ATTACKS AGAINST OUR BORDER
POSTS AT KARITOLA HAVE BEEN REPULSED.
AS MANY AS 12 INDIAN DIVISIONS HAVE BEEN DEPLOYED AROUND
EAST PAKISTAN. IN ADDITION THERE ARE 38 BATTALIONS OF THE
INDIAN BORDER SECURITY FORCE. 2ND AND 5TH INDIAN MOUNTAIN
DIVISIONS WHICH WERE PREVIOUSLY DEPLOYED ON THE BORDERS
WITH CHINA HAVE ALSO BEEN MOVED TOWARDS EAST PAKISTAN.
THE 8TH MOUNTAIN DIVISION (OF 6 BRIGADES) HAS ALSO BEENI
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION SECRET OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Department of State
STATES AMERICA UNITED
TELEGRAM
OF
SECRET
S
PAGE 03 STATE 212620
MOVED TO EAST PAKISTAN BORDERS TOWARDS SYLHET FROM NIAGA -
LAND WHERE ONLY ONE BRIGADE IS NOW LEFT.
TWELVE SQUADRONS OF THE INDIAN AIR FORCE AREI NOW PLACED
AROUND EAST PAKISTAN. A SIZEABLE INDIAN naval FORCE COML
PRISING AIRCRAFT CARRIER' FRIGATES, LANDING SHIPS AND TWO
SUBMARINES IS STANDING BY NEAR VIZIGAPATNAM IN THE BAY
OF BENGAL POSING AN AMPHIBIOUS THREAT TO CHITTAGONG AND
CHALNA PORTS. THE APPROACHES TO CHALNA PORT HAVE BEEN
MINED BY THE INDIANS WITH THE RESULT THAT TWO MERCHANT
SHIPS CHARTERED FOR CARRYING FOODGRAINS AND OTHER ESSEN-
TIAL SUPPLIES HAVE BEEN DAMAGED. THIS WOULD SERIOUSLY DIS=
RUPT FOOD SUPPLIES TO EAST PAKISTAN.
MR. PRESIDENT, AS YOU ARE AWARE INDIAN ARMED FORCES IN
THE LAST FEW MONTHS HAVE MAINTAINED PRESSURE ALLI ALONG OUR
EASTERN BORDERS. APART FROM TRAINING, EQUIPPING AND
LAUNCHING REBELS SUPPORTED BY INDIAN BORDER SECURITY
FORCE PERSONNEL INTO PAKISTAN TERRITORY, INDIAN ARTILLERY
UNITS HAVE BEEN CONSTANTLY SHELLING AREAS IN EAST PAKIS-
TAN. BUT AS I HAVE POINTED OUT ABOVE, IN THE LAST 3 OR
4 DAYS THE INDIAN ARMED FORCES HAVE TURNED FROM LOCALIZED
ATTACKS TO OPEN AND LARGE SCALE WARFARE ON SO MANY FRONTS.
THEY HAVE FURTHER ESCALATED THE CONFLICT BY INTRODUCING
ARMOR AND AIR FORCE. PAKISTAN ARMY AND AIR FORCE UNITS IN
EAST PAKISTAN HAVE BEEN UNDER STRICT ORDERS NOT TO CROSS THE
FRONTIERS AND TO EXERCISE UTMOST RESTRAINT IN THE FACE OF
GRAVE PROVOCATIONS. THE PRESENT SITUATION, HOWEVER, IS
SUCH THAT THE OFFENSIVE LAUNCHED BY INDIAN ARMED FORCES
MUST BE MET BY US WITH ALL THE FORCE AT OUR COMMAND IN
THE DEFENSE OF OUR TERRITORIAL INTEGRITY.
WE WERE ASSURED FROM TIME TO TIME THAT INDIA DID NOT
INTEND TO LAUNCH OPEN AND LARGE SCALE WARFARE AGAINST
PAKISTAN. IT IS NOW EVIDENT THAT FAR FROM EXERCISING
RESTRAINT INDIA HAS CHOSEN THE PATH OF UNABASHED AND
UNPROVOKED AGGRESSION. INDIA CONTINUES TO HARP ON THE
THEME THAT THE INROADS INTO PAKISTAN ARE BEING MADE BY
THE SO-CALLED MUKTI BAHINI REBEL FORCE CREATED, MAIN-
TAINED AND SUSTAINED BY INDIA. NO ONE WILL BE DECEIVED BY
THE INDIAN CLAIM WHICH STANDS DISPROVED BY THE SCALE OF
PRESENT OPERATIONS AND BY THE EQUIPMENT INCLUDING ARMORI AND
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE SETRORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Department of State
UNITED STATES AMERICA
TELEGRAM
OF
SECRET
S
PAGE 04 STATE 212620
AIR FORCE ELEMENTS NOW BEING USED.
MR. PRESIDENT, I HAVE KEPT IN TOUCH WITH YOU SINCE THE
EXP
BEGINNING OF THE CRISIS IN EAST PAKISTAN AND I HAVE ALWAYS
BEEN DEEPLY APPRECIATIVE AND THANKFUL FOR YOUR UNDER-
STANDING AND WISE COUNSEL. IN ADDRESSING THIS MESSAGE I
AM ALSO CONSCIOUS OF YOUR SINCERE CONCERN FOR PEACE IN
THIS REGION AND STABILITY IN THE SUB- CONTINENT. ON MY
PART, I WOULD LIKE TO SAY UNHESITATINGLY THAT I WISH TO
AVOID A SENSELESS AND DESTRUCTIVE WAR WITH INDIA. BUT
THE DEVELOPING SITUATION CREATED BY INDIA MAY LEAD US
TO A POINT OF NO RETURN. I AM SANGUINE THAT YOUR PERSONAL
S
INITIATIVE AT THE PRESENT JUNCTURE COULD STILLI PROVE
DECISIVE IN AVERTING A CATASTROPHE. I SHALL ANXIOUSLY
AWAIT YOUR RESPONSE.
WITH WARM PERSONAL REGARDS.
(AGHA MOHAMMAD YAHYA KHAN) UNQUOTE. ROGERS
S
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION SECRET OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
Insen
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
PAK
X So ASIA
TOP SECRET MOST IMMEDIATE
EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN
2315 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20008
xalld
/
32/ml
No. PA/AMB/183/71
November 23, 1971.
My dear Hal,
Further to my talk with you, I am
enclosing herewith the full text of a top secret
message from President Yahya Khan to
President Nixon. I should be grateful if you
would pass it on to the President.
will Kunden your
Yours sincerely,
20m
(Z. M. Farooqi)
Mr Harold Saunders,
The White House, Room No. 386,
Washington D. C.
DECLASSIFIED
E.O. 13526, Section 3.5
NIN10-13/11699 Per Ltr. 8/21/2014
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
By Dm/WLHNARA, Date 12/19/2014
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified
[P.1005]
TOP SECRET
EMBASSY OF pakistan
2315 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20008
AMBASSADOR OF PAKISTAN
TEXT OF MOST IMMEDIATE MESSAGE FROM GENERAL
AGHA MUHAMMAD YAHYA KHAN, PRESIDENT OF
PAKISTAN TO MR RICHARD M. NIXON, PRESIDENT OF
THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
Mr President,
I am addressing this message to you with a
deep sense of urgency in view of the grave situation
which has arisen in my country as a result of unprovoked
and large scale attacks by Indian armed forces into
various parts of Pakistan.
2.
On November 21 an Indian army brigade group
supported by armed helicopters ingressed into Chittagong
hill tracts over-running our border out-posts and
ingressing approximately 10 miles in our territory.
On the same day, another brigade group of 23rd
Indian division launched an attack in the Belonia salient
of Noakhali district pushing 8 miles deep into Pakistan
territory, supported by the rest of the division.
In the Brahmanbaria sub-division also on
November 21 attacks were launched by a battalion group each
from 57th division against two of our border posts at Mukandpur
and Saldandi which were over-run.
In Sylhet district Maulvi Bazar sub-division, two
battalion groups attacked and over-ran border out-posts
at Dhalai, Athgram and Zakiganj. The battalion groups
included two companies of Gorkhas.
2
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified 689
:
P.
2
OF
5
TOP SECRET
EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN
2315 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20008
- 2 -
ambassador OF PAKISTAN
On November 21, another attack was launched in
Rangpur district in the Burangwari salient where an
Indian brigade group penetrated 15 miles into Pakistan
territory up to Nageshwari.
On the same day in Jessore district, a major
offensive was launched by a brigade group of 9th Indian
division supported by armour and air cover. The attack
was launched opposite Chaugacha and Indian tanks
penetrated about 8 miles into Pakistan territory.
The Indian air attack was challanged by Pakistan
air force. One Indian aircraft was destroyed and we lost
two. Six Indian tanks were destroyed in the engagement
and eight of ours were disabled.
Intermittent shelling of Jessore air field
continues.
In Mymensingh district repeated attacks against
our border out -posts at Karitola have been repulsed.
3.
As many as 12 Indian divisions have been deployed
around East Pakistan. In addition there are 38 battalions
of the Indian border security force. 2nd and 5th Indian
mountain divisions which were previously deployed on the
borders with China have also been moved towards East
Pakistan. The 8th mountain division (of 6 brigades) has
also been moved to East Pakistan borders towards Sylhet
from Nagaland where only one brigade is now left.
Twelve squadrons of the Indian air force are
now placed around East Pakistan. A sizable Indian
3
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DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be dedassifies/11499 P. 30F5
TOP SECRET
EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN
2315 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20008
AMBASSADOR OF PAKISTAN
- 3 -
naval force comprising aircraft carrier, frigates, landing
ships and two submarines is standing by near Vizigapattam
in the Bay of Bengal posing an amphibious threat to
Chittagong and Chalna ports. The approaches to Chalna
port have been mined by the Indians with the result
that two merchant ships chartered for carrying foodgrains
and other essential supplies have been damaged. This
would seriously disrupt food supplies to East Pakistan.
4.
Mr President, as you are aware, Indian armed
forces in the last few months have maintained pressure
all along our eastern borders. Apart from training,
equipping and launching rebels supported by Indian
border security force personnel into Pakistan territory,
Indian artillery units have been constantly shelling
areas in East Pakistan. But as I have pointed out
above, in the last 3 or 4 days the Indian armed forces
have turned from localised attacks to open and large
scale warfare on SO many fronts. They have further
escalated the conflict by introducing armour and
air force. Pakistan army and air force units in East
Pakistan have been under strict orders not to cross
the frontiers and to exercise utmost restraint in the
face of grave provocations. The present situation,
however, is such that the offensive launched by Indian
armed forces must be met by us with all the force at our
command in the defence of our territorial integrity.
5.
We were assured from time to time that India
4
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined declassified
P
4
OF
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TOP SECRET
EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN
2315 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20008
ambassador OF PAKISTAN
- 4 -
did not intend to launch open and large scale warfare
against Pakistan. It is now evident that far from
exercising restraint India has chosen the path of
unabashed and unprovoked aggression. India continues
to harp on the theme that the inroads into Pakistan
are being made by the so-called 'MUKTI BAHINI' - a rebel
force created, maintained and sustained by India. No
one will be deceived by the Indian claim which stands
disproved by the scale of present operations and by
the equipment including armour and air force elements
now being used.
6.
Mr President, I have kept in touch with you since
the beginning of the crisis in East Pakistan and I have
always been deeply appreciative and thankful for your
understanding and wise counsel. In addressing this message
I am also conscious of your sincere concern for peace in
this region and stability in the sub-continent. On my
part, I would like to say unhesitatingly that I wish to
avoid a senseless and destructive war with India. But the
developing situation created by India may lead us to a point
of no return. I am sanguine that your personal initiative
at the present juncture could still prove decisive in averting
a catastrophe. I shall anxiously await your response.
With warm personal regards.
(AGHA MOHAMMAD YAHYA KHAN)
His Excellency Mr Richard M. Nixon,
President of the United States of America,
Washington.
TOP SECRET
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
DECLASSIFIED
This document has been reviewed pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and has been determined to be declassified P. 5 OF 5