851.001/12a: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Consul General at Algiers (Wiley)
1017. For Murphy’s information only. Following telegram is being sent through War Department today:
“For General Eisenhower from the President. Please transmit immediately the following textual message from me to General Henri Honoré Giraud:
‘I hope very much that as soon as the existing situation in North Africa permits and as soon as the burden of your heavy responsibilities makes it possible, you will come to Washington as the guest of this Government.33a I feel there are many problems of common interest to our two countries which it would be most helpful to me to have the opportunity of discussing with you. Will you let me know how soon you think it would be possible for you to make the trip to this country. I remember with the greatest satisfaction my meetings with you at Casablanca and I send you my warm personal regards and the assurances of my highest consideration.’
Please transmit to me the reply which General Giraud may make. As soon as I receive an indication from General Giraud of the approximate date when he can make this visit, I shall make it public.”
- On June 28, 1943, the White House announced that General Giraud would soon visit the United States, but would come in his military capacity rather than as joint leader of the Committee of National Liberation. He arrived in Washington July 7.↩