191. Memorandum From the Secretary of State’s Special Assistant (Greene) to the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern, South Asian, and African Affairs (Berry)1
The Secretary would like thought given to the possibility that the present stage in Egyptian affairs ensuant on the “union” with Syria, might be a good and profitable occasion for us to reassess our own policies with a view to moving in on the new union, such as by extending the hand of friendship. If the Soviets are hesitant about their attitude toward the Union, it might be a favorable opportunity for us.
The Secretary suggested that among the other factors which you will want to take into account in considering this matter is whether we might better wait a while to see whether the other Arab States can agree on a common course of action, which course we might then back; the Secretary notes that our backing might be of critical importance to the success of any action the other Arab States agree on.
He also suggested a close appraisal of the vulnerabilities of the new Union; this might lead to the conclusion that it is more open to disruption than to blandishment.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.86B/2–558. Secret. Drafted by Greene and sent through S/S.↩