413. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Yemen1
64728. 1. In call on Assistant Sec Hare October 11, Yemeni Foreign Minister Sallam made puerile impassioned plea for further US aid, particularly for paving Mocha-Sanaa road. Sallam stated Yemenis appreciated US recognition Republic, but felt US had done nothing further assist in developing Yemen, that major aid projects all given only to Imamate regime. Contrasted US lack willingness help with massive efforts Soviets and Chicoms.
2. Sallam blamed Saudis and British for present plight of Yemen. Emphasized that Yemenis welcomed UAR presence as first step toward larger unity Arab world.
3. Ambassador Hare stated (and reiterated number times during conversation) that US policy toward Yemen clear from beginning, never hidden or doubtful: we desired only situation where Yemen could develop at peace internally and externally and could control its own destiny. We in no way involved in trying manipulate internal affairs Yemen. Our activities open and above board. We not engaged in passing money, plotting or any of other allegations which currently being circulated in Cairo and Yemen. We desire nothing from Yemen except Yemeni self-determination. This being stressed to Foreign Minister not only to set record straight but also to give assurances that this has been and continues to be our policy. If YARG doubts this it will be unable understand our attitudes and future course our relations.
4. Ambassador Hare continued that in exercising our limited influence with UAR and Saudis concerning Yemen we had spoken only on above lines, urging the two larger powers to reach some accommodation which would allow Yemenis decide own future.
5. Concerning US assistance, Ambassador Hare emphasized our aid efforts before and since revolution had concentrated on helping Yemeni people, without reflection on what regime controlled country. Our current programs, involving smaller projects primarily in rural areas, specifically were designed this purpose. Was noted that approximately half of all US aid ever given Yemen had been supplied since revolution.
[Page 782]6. In subsequent call on AID Assistant Administrator Macomber, Sallam made similar but more restrained appeal for aid, concentrating on paving road. Macomber made no promises but indicated we were sympathetic toward helping Yemeni people within limitations our budget and as necessary stability and planning capability in Yemen evolve over coming years. Expected that our program would in near future continue emphasize rural self-help. Specifically commented that at present stage Yemen development there was some question whether paving road should have major priority.
- Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Central Files 1964-66, AID (US) 8 YEMEN. Secret. Drafted by Moore, cleared by Director of the AID Office of Near Eastern Affairs James C. Flint, and approved by Hare. Repeated to Cairo, London, Jidda, and Aden.↩