173. Telegram From Secretary of State Rogers to the Department of State1
New York, October 1, 1969,
2308Z.
Secto 98/3349. Secretary’s Bilateral with Yemen FonMin 1 October. Following summary based on uncleared memcon, Noforn and FYI only subject to revision upon review:
- 1.
- Summary: In relaxed, amiable conversation, Yemen FonMin Barakat told Secretary how peaceful Yemen now was, how relations with neighbors have improved and Yemen wished normalize relations with developed countries, especially US. Secretary said US not now in position change policy on recognition, but that it was under active consideration. He urged maintenance of active informal contacts, assured Barakat we would watch situation carefully.
- 2.
- Barakat made general presentation along lines his UNGA speech, noting country now completely quiet with last resistance to Republican govt cleared out, all tribes have sworn allegiance, democratic govt installed and at work on new constitution. He said relations with neighbors now good, neighbors to south no longer introducing subversive elements. Yemen wishes good relations with all countries, especially developed countries.
- 3.
- Barakat explained break in relations with US occurred under former govt that did not represent will Yemeni people. Urged US look at recognition Yemen as special case not tied to general ME situation. Regretted that due conditions beyond control present govt, entire US Mission had been withdrawn.
- 4.
- Secretary said US not now in position change our recognition policy but that we have the situation under active study. He urged continuation of contacts in New York and assured Barakat we would watch developments.
Rogers
- Source: National Archives, Nixon Presidential Materials, NSC Files, Box 1245, Saunders Files, Yemen. Confidential. It was repeated to Jidda and Aden.↩