262. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Guinea0
184. Deptel 180. Following based upon uncleared memo conversation between Secretary and Amb. Conte Sept 12 requested by latter.1 Secretary assured Conte that although President’s schedule very full he would make every effort see President Toure if this can be arranged. He emphasized that US aid commitment would be most difficult even though USG has genuine interest in Guinean development. He hoped concrete expression this interest would be shown in discussion with President and that public statement could be made following meeting that talks had covered problems of Guinea’s economic development in which USG prepared interest itself. Announcement any definite aid commitment would set unfortunate precedent in regard President’s meetings with other distinguished foreign visitors and might aggravate Administration’s difficulties if made while Congress was still considering FY63 aid appropriation.
Secretary also stressed importance economic assistance from other Western industrialized nations and suggested proposed talk between two Presidents would provide opening obtain such assistance. Hoped that Conte and Toure would agree that under circumstances main emphasis would be placed on fact that conversations had taken place and other questions treated in subsidiary manner.
Conte thanked Secretary for comments. He stated that although meeting with President most important aspect of trip, possible public announcements should convey impression Toure here to attend UNGA. Among several reasons for this is fact Guinea having difficulties with SovBloc. Guinea had oriented trade and economy toward Bloc. Furthermore, recently Bloc has sought to meddle in Guinean internal affairs. Guinea’s economic situation difficult although not “dramatic.” US had been unable respond to first Guinean overtures for aid immediately after independence; now that new difficulties have arisen Guinea again turning to US.
Conte said he appreciated difficulty which precise statement on aid would present for US. He had come to understand philosophy of US assistance and understood President might not have authority make commitment until Congress had acted on aid appropriation. He [Page 406] intended fly Conakry next day to explain US position to Toure. Since relations between US and Guinea have greatly improved and further improvement anticipated, Conte felt particularly important that possibility misunderstanding be avoided.
Secretary said he encouraged by Conte’s comments. Present Administration had taken political risks to improve relations with Guinea; these appear have paid off. Asst Sec Williams pointed out Conte had also taken political risks in working improve US-Guinea ties and therefore deserved much credit for present situation. Secretary continued that improved relations would be further justification for direct contact between two Presidents and also provide good explanation for meeting. USG felt meeting should in no way be interpreted as signifying some crisis exists. On contrary, meeting useful step in normal development international relations. Conte agreed. In closing, Secretary asked Conte for early indication Toure’s intentions in order permit rearrangement President’s schedule for possible meeting Toure. Conte promised furnish information soonest.