Foreign Relations of the United States, 1955–1957, Africa, Volume XVIII

229. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Italy¹

Washington, June 26, 1957—6:15 p.m.

5077. During recent conversation with Dept, Somalia Administrator Anzilotti mentioned possibility independence Somalia in early 1959.² Anzilotti indicated Italy would find it difficult refuse request for independence before 1960 in view of (a) plans for Somali Constitution and Head of State by end 1958, and (b) Somali wish to negotiate directly for foreign aid. Italian Ambassador Brosio also present suggested Italy, because of economic considerations, may not be in a position or wish to oppose Somali independence in 1959.

With respect question of economic aid, Anzilotti hopes Italian assistance will be continued until 1960. He expressed opinion that from standpoint over-all Western interests, Italy should continue to play important part after 1960. However, from Italian national viewpoint withdrawal in 1960 would be logical since Italy has no major interests to protect in area which is rapidly becoming political hotspot under influence Egyptian and Ethiopian intrigues.

Department informed Anzilotti that, while not ready to take definite position on independence before 1960, it believes there are advantages in not moving too rapidly. Somali Government will not be able to act effectively for some time and will therefore need as much guidance and assistance as possible. We also consider it highly desirable that problem of border with Ethiopia be resolved before independence. With respect to related issue of economic aid after independence, Dept will continue to keep Somalia’s needs in mind in future planning without making present commitment. We hope Italy will continue play important part in Somalia after 1960 as contribution to world-wide Western position.

Since FonOff has indicated Italy has no intention withdrawing from Somalia before 1960 and that it considers Somalia as one of areas where Italy can play primary role in maintaining pro-Western orientation (Embdes 1597³), believe Embassy should seek opportunity to obtain clarification in view statements made by Anzilotti.

You may indicate to FonOff that:

1. While aware economic considerations involved Italian thinking, we consider it important in over-all Western interest that Italy continue its administration for full period provided by UN Trusteeship Agreement. Early Italian withdrawal, we feel would, for following reasons, adversely affect future orientation Somalia and political stability Horn of Africa:

a. Somali Government, while assuming increasing responsibility, lacks necessary experience and will need continued guidance and stabilizing influence Italian administration over next three years,

b. Unresolved status Ethiopian-Somali boundary constitutes serious threat stability of area. We consider it important that problem be resolved while Somalia still a U.N. responsibility to provide settlement with UN moral sanction. Early Italian withdrawal might jeopardize prospects of settlement under UN auspices,

c. While decision on early termination of Trusteeship is matter for UN decision, Italian initiative in this direction might afford anti-Western UN delegations an opportunity attack other Western positions in Africa.

2. With respect to post-independence period, we believe GOI should give earnest consideration to its continued participation in political and economic responsibilities carried by Western nations in various parts of the world. Since Italy has an interest in Somalia in view its historical ties with that country and its success in achieving objectives of Trusteeship, it is Western nation best qualified to assure continued stability and favorable orientation new Somali state. While we hope US will be able continue its help to Somalia and that other Western countries will also find it possible to assist, consider leading part in this country should be assumed by Italy.

Suggest Embassy emphasize foregoing points in future discussions with GOI officials re Somalia.⁴

Dulles

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 777.000/6–457. Secret. Repeated to Addis Ababa, London, and Mogadiscio. Drafted by Dorros and approved by Witman.
2. Enrico Anzilotti, former Italian Ambassador to Austria, met with Palmer and Rountree on June 13. (Memorandum of conversation by Dorros; ibid., IO/ODA Files: Lot 62 D 225, US–UK Colonial Talks 1957)
3. Despatch 1597, June 4, noted that Dr. Piero Vinci, head of the Italian Foreign Office Middle East section, had informed the Embassy in Rome on June 3 that no withdrawal was contemplated. (Ibid., Central Files, 777.00/6–457)
4. Ambassador James D. Zellerbach, in a conversation with Italian Foreign Office officials on June 28, was told that Italy would continue economic and administrative support through 1960. However, the Italians claimed they could not restrain Somalia if its leaders demanded full independence before the end of 1960. Zellerbach emphasized the importance of an Italian presence for the duration of the trusteeship. (Telegram 5122 from Rome, June 29; ibid., 777.00/6–2957)