710 Foreign Relations, 1958-1960, Volume IX



    17. Utilize both public affairs and diplomatic channels to focus
world opinion on the injustices of a forcibly divided Germany and the
oppressive actions taken by the East German regime against the popula-
tion. Emphasize that the people of East Germany have been deprived of
their right to self-determination by the violation of international agree-
ments by the Soviet Government, particularly the agreement of the
Heads of Government at Geneva regarding the reunification of Ger-
many by means of free elections.2
    18. Maintain contact with the people of East Germany and encour-
age resistance to the Communist regime by specific projects (admini-
stered by the West German Government through West German and
private organizations supported by the United States to the extent nec-
essary and appropriate) designed to (a) maintain a sense of identifica-
tion with the West and (b) manifest our concern for the hardships of
East Germans. This should include the provision of cultural, educa-
tional, welfare, and travel opportunities. However, an organized official
program for the exchange of persons between the United States and East
Germany would be inconsistent with our policy of the nonrecognition of
the East German regime.
    19. Reassure the East German people of our continued confidence
in the eventual reunification of Germany in freedom by evidence of con-
tinued strong Western support for Berlin and our determination to re-
main in Berlin. Hamper Soviet exploitation of East Germany by
maintaining Berlin as an example of Western accomplishments and as
an island of resistance to consolidation of Communist control in East
Germany, and by prompt and clear response to any Communist harass-
ment of the city.
    20. Oppose the recognition of the East German regime by other
countries, seek to limit its influence, and support the Federal Republic
in
preventing the admission of representatives of the East German regime
to international organizations or meetings.3


    2 For the Directive of the Heads of Government, July 23, 1955, see Foreign
Relations,
1955-1957, vol. V, p. 527.
    3On February 7, the President also approved a separate annex to Supplement
II
which reads as follows:
    "1. Encourage the East German people in passive resistance to their
Soviet-domi-
nated regime when this will contribute to minimizing East German contributions
to Soviet
power or to increasing pressures for reunification. Foster disaffection in
the East German
armed forces.
     "2. Avoid incitements to violence or to action when the probable
reprisals or other
results would yield a net loss in terms of U.S. objectives. In general, however,
do not dis-
courage, by public utterances or otherwise, spontaneous manifestations of
discontent and
opposition to the Communist regime, despite risks to individuals, when their
net results
will exert pressures for release from Soviet domination. [4 lines of source
text not declassi-
fied] " (Department of State, S/S-NSC Files: Lot 63 D 351, NSC 5803
Series)