Foreign Relations of the United States, 1958–1960, Arab-Israeli Dispute; United Arab Republic; North Africa, Volume XIII

231. Telegram From the Embassy in the United Arab Republic to the Department of State¹

Cairo, January 27, 1959—4 p.m.

2188. In course call on Fawzi yesterday to discuss Essayons matter,² he remarked individual actions of course important but what really significant is basic trend in relations which, as far as US–UAR concerned appreciably better. In so saying, he felt this favorable development was to large extent result of patient perseverance and he now wished make plea that policy which had borne this was good fruit should be maintained. He wished make clear he was not suggesting something dramatic but he was equally convinced of necessity of not relaxing at this point; very important keep moving ahead. This applicable not only to US but also other Western governments and he especially mentioned West Germany.

Becoming more specific Fawzi then recalled he had previously expressed hope that something might be done which would in some way assuage difficulties re cotton, both from standpoints of maintaining highest level possible of exports Egyptian cotton to US and also of consulting with view minimizing to extent possible effect on Egyptian cotton market of our PL 480 cotton sales to third countries.

Fawzi then mentioned somewhat more gingerly question possible additional PL 480 assistance in food products. Said understood we had bumper crops last year and hoped in someway this might be translated into same thing which might further contribute to improving relations. Added he not in position discuss in terms of specifics—that was question for experts—but he did venture mention idea as something which might be explored.

Comment: Although foregoing conveyed with much of vagueness and indirection characteristic of Fawzi’s presentations, I had distinct impression that there was strong force impelling him speak as he did and that he desired his observations be taken seriously but that at same time he wished avoid being placed in position of getting too far out on limb in case his ideas not reciprocated. This reserve did not apply however to cotton where he made strong plea and made clear nothing could be more effective in transforming our relationship than reaching some accommodation in that regard.

Although foregoing may not give Department much in which to sink its teeth, I believe would be advisable indicate our reaction in some way since no doubt but that Fawzi’s sympathies lie with US and West and anything we can do to strengthen his hand is all to good.³

Hare

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 986B.7301/1–2759. Confidential. Repeated to London and Bonn.
2. On January 22, Hare was informed that due to a breakdown of the generator on the Essayons, its departure for Port Said would be delayed about 30 days. (Telegram 2115 to Cairo; ibid., 986B.7301/1–2059)
3. On January 30, the Department of State cabled Hare that he should assure Fawzi that the United States shared his desire for better U.S.–UAR relations. Hare was also informed that increasing cotton imports was difficult because of various quotas from other countries. (Telegram 2199 to Cairo; ibid., 611.86B/1–3059)