123K632/400: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Minister in Egypt ( Kirk )
231.…
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The suggestion has been made that as a gesture of good will of eventual benefit to Saudi Arabia which would be distinctly appreciated by Ibn Saud, we might, at his request, place a small group of Government experts on agriculture, irrigation and roads at Ibn Saud’s disposal for so long as would be necessary to investigate possibilities along the lines of their specialties and to make recommendations to the Saudi Arabian Government. During the period of this mission’s work, its head might be designated as Agricultural Attaché to your Legation. Such a project would constitute a gesture without the establishment of an office in Jeddah which political considerations might make it difficult to withdraw if the reasons for its establishment should cease to be of importance. Should you think well [Page 655] of this suggestion, the Department will investigate its feasibility from the legal and financial viewpoints so that you may be in a position to discuss the matter with the King in a concrete manner.