Foreign Relations of the United States, 1969–1976, Volume XXVII, Iran; Iraq, 1973–1976

72. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Iran¹

Washington, August 9, 1974, 1723Z.

174062. Subject: Presidential Message.

1. Please deliver immediately following message from the President to the Shah. If he is not available, deliver to highest official available.

2. Begin text:

Your Imperial Majesty:

As I take up the office of President of the United States,² I am as one of my first acts writing you to assure you and other friends of my firm dedication to the policies the United States has been pursuing in its international relations.

The foreign policy of the United States is soundly based on the support of both our major political parties. The principle of continuity in foreign policy has deep roots in the traditions, institutions, and national interests of America. No principle will be more central to the conduct of the affairs of the United States under my administration. I want to pledge to you that I am fully committed, with the full support and participation of Secretary Kissinger, to honoring all international obligations undertaken by the United States in its relations with your country and with all other nations of the world.

In particular, I want you to know of the extremely high importance I attach to maintaining, expanding and strengthening the very close ties and cooperation between our own two countries. The special relationship between us has been built up through many trials over more than a generation. It has not only stood the test of time but has grown stronger from year to year. I shall do everything in my power to foster the friendship between Iran and the United States.

I also want you to know of my strong commitment to pursue our diplomatic strategy toward a just and durable peace in the Middle East with the same vigor that has characterized our efforts over the past nine months. The achievement of peace in the Middle East will remain one of the highest foreign policy objectives of the United States.

Your Imperial Majesty, I look forward to an early occasion to see you in person and to renew our friendship.³

Sincerely yours,

Gerald R. Ford

End message.

Kissinger

1. Source: National Archives, RG 59, Central Foreign Policy Files, P850017–2033. Secret; Flash; Nodis.
2. Ford assumed the Presidency on August 9 following Nixon’s resignation.
3. In telegram 175284 to Tehran, August 10, Kissinger sent a message for the Shah expressing his own commitment to strengthening U.S.-Iranian ties. (National Archives, RG 59, Central Foreign Policy Files, P850017–2031)