884.6363 African Exploration and Development Corp./23: Telegram
The Chargé in Ethiopia ( Engert ) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 5—9:25 a.m.]
88. The Emperor sent for me this afternoon and asked me if I could confirm a news report current since this morning. His Majesty said he understood that the State Department had brought pressure to bear on the American interests which had been backing the company that had just obtained an oil concession in Ethiopia and that as a result the company would probably withdraw. He said that he would regret this very much as he had been influenced in granting this concession by the knowledge that the United States are politically disinterested and at the same time possess the technical skill and experience to contribute to the economic development of his country. His Majesty added that he also intended the concession to be a proof of his friendly feelings towards America and to show his appreciation of the sympathetic interest the Government and the people of the United States were displaying in the difficulties in which Ethiopia finds herself involved.
Upon returning to the Legation from the Palace I found the Department’s numbers 5197 and 52. In view of the above statement by the Emperor may I suggest that in communicating the decision of the company to him I be authorized to assure him in such language as the Department may desire that his sentiments of cordiality and good will are appreciated and reciprocated and that the advice given to the interested companies by the Department is no indication of a change but on the contrary is intended to be helpful to Ethiopia.