Foreign Relations of the United States, 1952–1954, The Near and Middle East, Volume IX, Part 2

774.56/3–1252

No. 969
The Deputy Secretary of Defense (Foster) to the Secretary of State

top secret

Washington, March 12, 1952.

Dear Mr. Secretary: Reference is made to Mr. H. Freeman Matthews’ letter, dated 23 February 1952, regarding the eligibility of Egypt for assistance under the provisions of Section 408(e) of the Mutual Defense Assistance Act of 1949, as amended, and further regarding Department of Defense assistance to the Egyptian Government on a high priority basis in the procurement on a reimbursable basis of the equipment desired by that Government.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff have concluded, and I concur in this conclusion, that a recommendation be made to the Director for Mutual Security that Egypt be declared eligible for reimbursable aid under the provisions of Section 408(e) of the Mutual Defense Assistance Act of 1949, as amended.

Subject to compliance with the provisions of the above stated Act and its amendments, the Department of Defense is prepared, on a high priority basis, to assist the Egyptian Government in the procurement of the equipment desired.

Sincerely yours,

William C. Foster