The Senate Foreign Relations Committee today confirmed the appointment of Philip M. Klutznick, American Jewish leader, to represent the United States as Minister to the United Nations Economic and Social Council. The committee commended Mr. Klutznick for his views and achievements.
Mr. Klutznick announced that to avoid any impression of partiality in his new diplomatic capacity, he would resign as general chairman of the United Jewish Appeal, as chairman of the International Council of B’nai B’rith, as honorary president of B’nai B’rith, and divest himself of his interests in the development of the city of Ashdod in Israel.
Senator J. W. Fulbright, chairman of the Senate committee, raised a question of whether Mr. Klutznick “could take an objective and impartial view” and whether he had “prejudice against Arab countries. ” Mr. Klutznick replied that he favored assistance to underdeveloped nations and would not exclude anyone from such assistance on a basis of religion, He pointed out that Arabs were cousins of the Jews and that he was ready to work with the Arabs toward peace and mutual understanding. He said he hoped his service would demonstrate his just dealings with Arab nations.
Senator Russell B. Long, Louisiana Democrat, expressed appreciation to Mr. Klutznick, terming his statement a “fine” one. The Senator voiced hope that the Arabs would respond to Mr. Klutznick and cooperate with him. Senator Wayne Morse, Oregon Democrat, said the Klutznick appointment was “good news for world peace” and stated that “the fact you are an American Jew is fortunate for the country. ” The appointment, he stated, provided an opportunity for brilliant men, Moslem and Jewish, to get together and that the result could be “a better understanding.”
Senator Fulbright expressed amazement at the totals raised through the years by the United Jewish Appeal, Describing the philanthropy of persons of his faith, Mr. Klutznick said such generosity supplemented government aid allocations. Senator Fulbright commented that perhaps Mr. Klutznick should be made a member of the Senate and placed on the appropriations committee.
Mr. Klutznick’s espousal of views on foreign aid drew commendation from a number of committee members and his background in Jewish achievements characterized as an asset. He was described as a “man of action.” Senator Long told Mr. Klutznick: “Your background doesn’t indicate just talk, ” Enthusiastic endorsement of Mr. Klutznick was expressed by Senator Paul H. Douglas; Illinois Democrat.
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