Foreign Relations of the United States, 1952–1954, Africa and South Asia, Volume XI, Part 1

771.00/12–354: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the United States Mission at the United Nations¹

confidential

Washington, December 3, 1954—7:12 p.m.

Gadel 133. Verbatim text. Re Morocco-Tunisia. Following draft texts being furnished USGADel as basis possible US statements in GA Committee on North African items:

1. Morocco “The US has always been convinced that progress toward increased self-government for Morocco can best be achieved, as in case of Tunisia, through method of direct negotiations and agreements between France and Moroccans. This is method recommended by Assembly in its resolution on Morocco December 19, 1952, and we believe no other method is so likely achieve desired goal. At same time, I am sure we all realize that, if progress seems slower in Morocco than in Tunisia, this is because Moroccan situation is more complex. We deplore any measures such as acts of terrorism and violence which would interfere with orderly political development and social and economic progress of Moroccan people.

Despite setbacks and slower rate of progress evident in Morocco, US feels there is good reason to hope that method for solution in Tunisia can set pattern for future settlement in Morocco. We believe it in interest of France and Morocco that this course be followed as actively and persistently as circumstances will permit. For that reason we believe this course is also in the best interests of UN and of fulfillment of United Nations principles in respect of peoples who have not yet obtained a full measure of self-government.”

2. Tunisia “I wish to say only few words on question of Tunisia because, in view of my Government, present outlook for substantial progress in self-government for Tunisia makes extended discussion in Assembly neither necessary or desirable. We believe current negotiations between France and representatives of Tunisian Government are in accordance sense of Assembly’s resolution of December 17, 1952 recommending bilateral negotiations this problem. Surely, with these long-awaited and important negotiations actually in progress now and with conciliatory atmosphere which surrounds them, we can take satisfaction in fact that methods of settlement suggested by Assembly in 1952 are being applied.

Let us remember that, in his address of July 31, France’s Prime Minister stated publicly: ‘The internal autonomy of the Tunisian State is recognized and proclaimed without reservation by French Government; we intend at one and same time to assert this in principle and to enable it, in action, to be sanctioned by success.’ M. Mendes-France confirmed this policy to members of this Assembly on November 22, expressing his faith in ‘the future of a liberal policy of mutual understanding and political, economic and social progress.’ We understand that France and the Tunisian Government jointly are taking steps to ease the tensions and difficulties aroused in Tunisia by extremist and sometimes fanatical elements. We wish all success to this constructive, cooperative move. In conclusion I wish to say my Government is greatly encouraged by these developments and over prospect that governments and peoples of France and Tunisia will in their mutual relations continue firmly along path, of conciliation and progress.”

These items due come under discussion at UN about December 8, Tunisia coming first. North African debate scheduled for French Assembly December 10 which will be difficult and possibly critical for Mendes-France, with gravest implications for prospects early ratification Paris-London accords. US statements at UNGA will have exceptional importance this context and USGADel is requested advise soonest re final texts as proposed for delivery. We suggest that if at all practicable USGADel withhold any statement on Morocco until after completion French Assembly debate, and not speak on Tunisia until actually required by course of debate.

Any substantive comments invited.

Dulles

1. This telegram was drafted by Mangano (UNP) and cleared in the offices of Utter (AF), Fisher (WE), Jernegan (NEA), Dean Brown (EUR), and Popper (UNP). It was repeated to Tangier, Tunis, and Paris.