886A.13/12–650: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in Saudi Arabia 1
215. Embtels 359 Dec 6,2 352 Dec 4,3 and previous tels same subj. Dept discussed subj reference tels with Treas and Bureau of Budget. SAG request five experts approved in principle and prelim efforts being made find personnel. To obtain final approval request and recruit personnel, further info needed re terms of reference for experts. Dept believes experts shld serve in advisory capacity and not assume responsibility execution or admin their recommendation. Discuss above with SAG and transmit its and your comments Dept.
Difficulty anticipated obtaining experts due scarcity technically competent individuals plus doubts SAG will undertake reforms which by nature require self-discipline. Another serious determent is critical housing situation in SA. SAG will be expected provide suitable living qtrs, transportation and other facilities and necessary to obtain assurances they will do so. Dept wld also appreciate Emb’s views re feasibility of accountants and possibly their families living in Riyadh for extended period in view unfavorable living conditions there.
- Repeated to the Embassy in Cairo for Parker.↩
- Not printed; Hare stressed the importance of the early selection of a qualified currency expert for Saudi Arabia (886A.13/12–650).↩
- Not printed; it relayed a request from the Ministry of Finance for five American experts under Point Four—two experts for customs organization, two to organize accounting procedures at the Ministry of Finance, and one for currency and coinage questions (886A.00TA/12–450).↩