Foreign Relations of the United States, 1955–1957, Africa, Volume XVIII

66. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in France¹

Washington, February 7, 1956—7:21 p.m.

2856. Embtel 3489.² You are authorized tell Pineau at your discretion that Mollet’s efforts initiate liberal policy Algeria have support and sympathy US Govt.

While too early judge just what Mollet’s full plan will be, nevertheless program thus far enunciated, i.e. abolition two college system, negotiations with Algerian leaders looking toward federal solution, represents significant step forward and in view serious situation confronting Mollet Algeria believe expression US encouragement this juncture appropriate. Although as you correctly stated any US démarche Egypt at this time of doubtful efficacy, nevertheless Dept would be willing consider suggestions as to how we might be helpful.³

For Cairo and Tripoli: Dept believes Mollet’s efforts show reasonable hope of French Govt going far towards meeting Algerian demands and thus significant opportunity—perhaps last—for French reaching accord with moderate elements Algeria. In view violent opposition by local French elements Algeria and probable subsequent opposition rightist groups French Parliament, consider that US encouragement might be helpful contribution in persuading Mollet to carry through liberal policy. Request your comments soonest as to efficacy and appropriateness US démarches urging Egyptian and Libyan Govts not undermine Mollet’s efforts Algeria.

Dulles

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 751S.00/2–456. Secret. Sent also to Cairo and Tripoli and repeated to Algiers, Tangier, and London.
2. Telegram 3489, February 4, reported that Pineau had requested U.S. support abroad, particularly in Cairo. He claimed that France could deal with the internal aspects of the Algerian problem provided that the rebels received no external aid and encouragement from the Islamic world. Dillon offered his sympathy and support. (Ibid.)
3. Dillon replied in telegram 3582, February 9, that he preferred to wait until Mollet’s return from Algeria. He feared that Mollet had backed away from his initial reform intentions after being pelted with raw vegetables and stones by the colons in Algiers because of his decision to appoint General Georges Catroux as Minister-President in Algeria. The colons blamed Catroux for negotiating the capitulation of Morocco and feared his appointment presaged a similar result in Algeria. Mollet responded by accepting Catroux’s resignation in favor of Robert Lacoste and by embracing a less liberal line. (Ibid., 751S.00/2–956)