Foreign Relations of the United States, 1964–1968, Volume XX, Arab-Israeli Dispute, 1967–1968

324. Telegram From the Department of State to the U.S. Interests Section of the Spanish Embassy in the United Arab Republic¹

Washington, November 16, 1968, 2100Z.

273043. Please convey following message to President Nasser from President Elect Nixon in manner you deem most appropriate:

“President Gamal Abdul Nasser

Cairo

Dear Mr. President:

Your friendly message of congratulations on my election is much appreciated.² I too recall with pleasure our meeting in Cairo in 1963 and remember the very warm Egyptian hospitality shown us by your government and your people.

With regard to your expression of hope that my election may create an opportunity for progress on some of the world’s problems, let me assure you that the United States Government under my administration will continue to give a high priority to the search for a just peace and amicable relationships in the Middle East as well as elsewhere.

With my best personal wishes for your good health and prosperity, and with best regards to your family.³

Sincerely, Richard M. Nixon”

Katzenbach

1. Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Central Files 1967–69, POL 15-1 US/NIXON. Confidential; Immediate. Drafted by John P. Walsh.
2. See footnote 2, Document 314.
3. Bergus reported that he delivered the message on November 17 and that it was given front-page treatment by all of the Cairo newspapers on the following morning. Bergus described the text as “just right.” (Telegram 3915 from Cairo, November 18; National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Central Files 1967–69, POL 15-1 US/NIXON)