47. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in France 0

1090. Deliver following message from President to de Gaulle:

“September 29, 1958.

Dear Mr. President: As an old friend of France, I extend my personal congratulations to you on the outcome of the referendum on the new French Constitution.1 To me the decisive result recorded by yesterday’s voting is not only an outstanding success for yourself but also a most inspiring development for France. The outcome is greatly encouraging to France’s friends throughout the world. For me it demonstrates the determination of the French people to build anew for the future.

Please accept, General, my heartfelt congratulations and best personal wishes.

Sincerely, Dwight D. Eisenhower.”

White House plans release foregoing text Tuesday afternoon provided French have no objection. Please confirm time of delivery.

Dulles
  1. Source: Department of State, Presidential Correspondence: Lot 66 D 204. Official Use Only; Priority. Drafted by Looram and approved by Dulles and Goodpaster.
  2. As a result of the referendum of September 28, the Constitution was approved in metropolitan France by 79.2 percent of the voters and in Algeria and every part of the French Union except Guinea.