783A.00/9–1252: Telegram
No. 484
The Minister in Lebanon (Minor) to the Department of
State
confidential
Beirut, September 12, 1952—3
p.m.
511. Totec. From Tannous. In view of mounting polit tension in Leb, current cabinet crisis and increasing difficulties we have been encountering in our Point IV program operations I deem it necessary to supply Dept with fol summary of situation:
- (1)
- Indications of purposeful negative stand by GOL toward our program include: (a) delaying tactics by Council of Mins in signing present agreements, (b) refusal by Council of Mins consider distribution of 1953 program funds despite repeated attempts and requests by US, (c) occasional intimation by responsible officials that Point IV program has been imposed by US rather than sought by Leb, (d) GOL requiring US assume responsibility for any possible damage resulting from olive spraying operations, (e) lack of courtesy accorded our staff in clearing recent livestock shipment through customs, (f) persistent obstructionism by customs and other responsible officials in clearing official and personal shipments, culminating in present demand all TCS imports pay municipal and excise taxes, 86 shipments dating back to Feb still in customs, seriously delaying some programs.
- (2)
- We see two major reasons for this attitude and these difficulties. First, disappointment of GOL in small magnitude of aid program. Their hopes of large-scale econ aid were not realized and their disappointment was increased by smaller technical aid program for 1953. Second, and possibly more basic is realization by certain elements within present ruling regime and vested interests that they cannot twist Point IV operations and exploit them for their polit and economic benefit. Furthermore, some pro-French elements have been active in obstructing program.
- (3)
- Our conclusion is that the program will continue to be obstructed and frustrated as long as present situation persists. There [Page 997] is hope now that new and strong cabinet will be set up with intention of clearing up situation and getting things done. In that event we expect our program to move ahead fast. Min Minor had lengthy and frank interview with Leb Pres on Point IV difficulties with GOL with encouraging results (Embtel 512 Sept 12).1 Meantime, we plan no policy discussions with present “caretaker” govt. When new govt takes over, we plan discuss whole situation along lines this tel with PriMin making clear we expect initiative for development of program from them or to come from his govt. We can and will not be put in position of “imposing” aid.
Minor