84. Telegram From the Embassy in the Congo to the Department of State 0

1198. From Henderson. On basis conversations Yaounde we convinced we should move more quickly and affirmatively in meeting Cameroun requests U.S. assistance. Cameroun has potentiality playing important role in orientation of Equatorial Africa but this potentiality can be exploited only through prompt and sustained action on our part. We believe Cameroun Government sincerely desires be in Western camp but will find it difficult resist Afro-Asian pressure if remaining associated with West means continued dependence for aid on France alone.

While we were in Yaounde, Franco-Camerounian economic agreements were signed. On this occasion Prime Minister Assale made public statement to effect this agreement would be followed by similar accords with U.S. and West Germany. If his announcement turns out to be empty hope, his regime may be imperiled unless it looks other directions for aid.

Ambassador Barrows does not believe Camerounians want to expect any sort of elaborate program. He thinks not more than four key projects not exceeding total $5,000,000 would meet situation. Camerounians although independent for nearly year have so far received no concrete evidence U.S. has any policy towards them except let French look after them. Continuation what appears be our present policy can lead to defeat of West in this politically strategic country.

Timberlake
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 770C.5–MSP/11–1760. Confidential; Priority. Repeated to Yaoundé and Paris.