343. Telegram From the Embassy in Egypt to the Department of State1
2232. Minister for National Production in conversation with Director USOM expressed opinion delay in replying GOE request for modification wording of aide-mémoires re High Dam financing due UK unwillingness proceed and US awaiting UK concurrence. Stated GOE desired finalize financing arrangements to strengthen position for negotiating Nile waters agreement since Sudan arguing no need for haste in reaching agreement because financing not yet arranged. Requested “unofficial” indication whether US willing to go ahead if GOE obtained aid from another Western country to replace British offer. Said he had such an offer and would prefer not have UK involved. Declined name country making offer, saying had not [Page 633] informed other GOE officials. Advise what “unofficial” reply can be made.2
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 874.2614/5–1056. Confidential. Received at 3:22 p.m. Also sent to Khartoum.↩
- The Department instructed the Embassy in Cairo on May 14 that the “USOM Director might reply by stating GOE request for modification wording aides-mémoire on High Dam financing has been receiving closest attention US–UK Govts. As GOE aware complex new policy questions were raised by its counter-proposals. US unaware any unwillingness on part UK to proceed. US understands GOE has determined conclude agreement with Sudan on division Nile waters before proceeding with project and that negotiations still in progress. Director could inquire whether consideration given by GOE to other legal problems deriving from interest in Nile waters expressed by other riparian states.” (Telegram 2727 to Cairo; Ibid.)↩