Gerald Ford

“ Yes, we are prepared to encourage the Europeans, but not to strain our relations with them in order to do it.
Pungan: We understand but we see some favorable benefits which would make desirable an early Conference at the highest level. It is especially important on Confidence-Building Measures and those measures leading to detente. We think the United States can help.
Kissinger: We support the Romanian position. But in the area of human contacts, the West Europeans are being extreme. In the areas of maneuvers and movement of forces, our views are similar to the Romanians! ”

“ It is close to us, and prolongation of the conflict increases the danger. At some time, we want to see the right solution—withdrawal of foreign troops, the independence of Cyprus, and both sides to live in peace on the island. ”

“ President, I told him yesterday that the Communists have specialized in taking and holding power and aren't likely to be overthrown by accident through increased contacts. What the Romanians want is to prevent the large movement of forces to bring pressure. ”