282. Telegram From the Embassy in Belgium to the Department of State1
666. During Fredericks’ conversation with Davignon and other FonOff reps dealing with non-Congolese personnel held in Stanleyville (being reported separately)2 it was agreed that Belgian and U.S. reps in Leoville meeting in greatest secrecy in limited group would consider hostage problem in light military developments. Davignon stated that Belgians fully understood U.S. concern and that Van der Walle will keep U.S. reps particularly well informed his planning and operations as they affect Stan, keeping in mind ultimate necessity for decision or actions in this area affecting U.S. citizens and personnel.
Davignon further remarked that, of course, Belgian officials in Stan would give as much help as possible to U.S. colleagues in difficult situation. Such Belgian assistance facilitated by fact that Belgians are aware of location of U.S. personnel in Stan.
- Source: National Archives, RG 59, Central Files 1964–66, POL 23–9 THE CONGO. Secret; Priority; Limdis. Repeated to Leopoldville and CINCSTRIKE/CINCMEAFSA for POLAD.↩
- Telegram 679 from Brussels, October 13, reported Fredericks’ discussion of the welfare of the foreign community in Stanleyville with Belgian officials. (Ibid.)↩