Foreign Relations of the United States, 1969–1976, Volume E–5, Part 1, Documents on Sub-Saharan Africa, 1969–1972

252. Telegram 157288 From the Department of State to the Embassy in Uganda¹ ²

Washington, August 28, 1972, 2251Z

Subj:

• USG and Asian Expulsion

Ref:

• Kampala 2695 [Notal]

For Ambassador from Newsom

1. Dept concurs your view we should at this time minimize our public involvement in issue of Aminʼs ouster of Asians and should not take lead in raising subject in UN or elsewhere.

2. We do not rpt not intend to initiate a statement on Asians, but if asked about it, we believe our response calls for some substantive comment. We would wish to reflect our concern and regret about any situation where human beings are suddenly uprooted and displaced. This would be in keeping with our commitments under the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. We might also take note of the encouraging steps Amin has taken in rescinding his order to expel Asian citizens of Uganda and in modifying his position on non-citizens. Such a statement free of invective which expresses our general concern while stressing positive aspects flowing from Aminʼs having modified his previous position could also, we would hope, encourage him to ease pressures further.

3. More press guidance follows.

1. Source: National Archives, RG 59, Central Files 1970–73, POL 23–10 Uganda. Confidential.
2. The Department agreed its public involvement in the issue of Ugandan President Idi Aminʼs ouster of Asians should be minimal. If asked, the Department would express concern and regret.