Foreign Relations of the United States, 1952–1954, Iran, 1951–1954, Volume X

788.00/8–2453

No. 354
Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern, South Asian, and African Affairs (Byroade) to the Acting Secretary of State¹

secret

Washington, August 24, 1953.

Subject:

• Message from President to Shah of Iran

Discussion:

Tehran’s telegram 461, August 23,² informs the Department that has been suggested by the Iranian Chief of Protocol that it would be appropriate for heads of state to send public congratulatory messages to the Shah of Iran. Ambassador Henderson agrees that such a message should be sent. Other diplomatic representatives in Tehran are advising their governments accordingly.

Recommendation:

It is recommended that the President’s approval of a public congratulatory message be obtained. A draft of such a message along the lines suggested by Ambassador Henderson is attached.

[Attachment]

Draft of Message From the President to the Shah³

Washington, [August 24, 1953.]

In the spirit of friendliness which has always been the basis for the relations of our two countries, I offer you my sincere felicitations on the occasion of your happy return to your country, and my continuing good wishes for every success in your efforts to promote the prosperity of your people and to preserve the independence of Iran.⁴

1. Drafted by Richards.
2. Not printed. (788.00/8–2353)
3. This message was sent under cover of a memorandum from Acting Secretary Smith to the White House on Aug. 24 for transmission to the President, who was out of the city.
4. The Department informed Ambassador Henderson on Aug. 26 that the President authorized him to deliver this message verbatim to the Shah, and that the text was being made available to the press on Aug. 27. (Telegram 619; 788.11/8–2953) Ambassador Henderson informed the Department on Aug. 28 that he delivered the President’s message to the Shah the previous evening. (Telegram 510; 788.11/8–2853)