282. Circular Telegram From the Department of State to Certain Diplomatic and Consular Posts1

310. Following for your guidance re US contacts with members or representatives “Algerian Government in Exile”:2

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1.
In past it has been US policy in accordance traditional practice towards dissident political groups receive in Department FLN representatives in response their request but to limit such calls to working level. On each occasion French Embassy informed. Certain US missions abroad have had discreet contacts with this group but also at working level.
2.
Foregoing practice should continue to be adhered to re limiting contacts with FLN. US representatives should particularly bear in mind increased French sensitivity on subject as result creation “Government in Exile”. It is realized contacts with FLN representatives in certain countries who have recognized this group may be unavoidable from time to time. In addition contacts at working level USUN would also seem unavoidable. However you should show necessary discretion in order prevent embarrassment US-French relations.3
Dulles
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 751S.02/9–2258. Confidential. Drafted by Looram; cleared by Sisco, McBride, and Bovey; and approved and signed for Dulles by Elbrick. Sent to all diplomatic posts except Taipei and to Algiers and USUN.
  2. On September 19, FLN representatives in Cairo announced the formation of an Algerian Government in Exile. Circular telegram 296, September 19, informed posts the United States would not recognize it. (Ibid., 751S.00/9–1958)
  3. French Embassy officials discussed U.S.–FLN contacts with Department of State officials September 22 and 23. (Telegrams 999 to Paris, September 22, and 1013 to Paris, September 23; ibid., 751S.00/9–2258 and 751S.00/9–2358, respectively) On September 27, the Department forwarded to the White House a translation of a letter to President Eisenhower from the President of the Provisional Government of the Algerian Republic and recommended the letter not be acknowledged. (Eisenhower Library, Whitman File, International File)