890F.51/5–545: Telegram

The Minister in Saudi Arabia (Eddy) to the Secretary of State

193. ReDepts No. 130, May 3, 6 p.m. While 2 months ago King Abdul Aziz would have been quite receptive to proposals confined to subject of my approaching visit I expect him to demand information on matters of greater urgency to him now (a) subsidy program for 1945 (Department’s No. 125, April 7 [27], 6 p.m.) and (b) expectations of long range financial aid (Department’s No. 283, December 24, 2 p.m.95)

If possible can Department authorize me to make any statement on either subject during this visit? Locust plague, non-delivery of cereals and spare parts, lack of any indication whether his budget will be balanced disturb him profoundly Minister of Finance96 informs.

Eddy