Your telegram 122. E.C.A.F.E.

We have discussed your proposals with the Ministry of External
Affairs and B.N. Adarkar, Deputy Economic Adviser to the
Government of India, who will represent India at the Bangkok
meeting.

2. The Indians agreed that there had been a lack of progress.

While appreciating your proposal, they thought that this should
supplement rather than be a substitution for a Committee
representing member Governments. In effect, they consider
E.C.A.F.E. should function through conference plus an inter-
governmental Committee of Experts assisted by an expert
secretariat.

3. They claim that such an inter-governmental Committee embracing
all member countries is a necessary organ if member governments of
E.C.A.F.E. are to be made to face up to their responsibilities,
especially at the stage when plans are to be implemented.

4. They thought that there was a need of a secretariat with the
type of function listed in your cable particularly for more
undeveloped countries in the area. But in so far as India herself
is concerned, they argue that she had passed beyond that stage,
and is therefore, mainly anxious to see the creation of a body
which will be effective in organizing joint governmental action in
the provision of capital and technical assistance.