882.635 Neep/11: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Minister in Liberia (Walton)
Washington, October 26, 1937—6
p.m.
26. Personal for the Minister from McBride. Your 49, October 24, 3 p.m.
- 1.
- As you know, we have always felt that it was in the best interest of Liberia to develop its natural resources through the introduction of foreign capital, and that it would be preferable not to confine such capital to any one nationality. Accordingly, contracts along the general lines of the Neep concession might appear to be advantageous to Liberia.
- 2.
- I understand, however, that the Liberian authorities consider that it would be definitely undesirable to permit the control of foreign enterprises in the country to fall into the hands of interests which might prove unfriendly or definitely dangerous to Liberian sovereignty. The information contained in your telegram might therefore indicate the importance of proceeding cautiously with respect to such matters as those discussed in paragraphs numbered 2 and 3 of my telegram of October 23.
- 3.
- In the event your personal opinion is sought you may consider it appropriate, while furnishing to President Barclay such of the information contained in your telegram as may appear desirable to you, to reply along the lines of the foregoing which represents my personal views.
- 4.
- I am endeavoring to obtain further information regarding nationality of Neep interests and extent of their resources. [McBride.]
Hull