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

281. Memorandum From Roger Morris of the National Security Council Staff to the Presidentʼs Assistant for National Security Affairs (Kissinger)¹ ²

Washington, October 28, 1969

SUBJECT:

• Recognition of the new Somalian Regime

State has asked us to clear the attached cable instructing low-key recognition of the new military government in Somalia. The Italians and British have already recognized. The French, Germans, Ethiopians and Kenyans are about to move. Our Embassy reports that the coup leaders are likely to ask us formally in the next few days where we stand.

As you know, our intelligence is still foggy on the intentions or the exact personnel of the new regime. Even if the young officers tolerate the border detente or keep their distance from the Soviets, our relations are bound to be somewhat strained over the next few months. At worst, there could be frontier warfare with Ethiopia and a new round of the arms race in The Horn.

Yet I canʼt see how we could use our recognition to forestall any of these potential problems. On the contrary, snubbing the new government might only drive them faster toward a radical and belligerent posture. So far, we have escaped direct criticism, and they seem to want a continuation of the AID program.

I think the State cable strikes the right pose. We would sidle back into routine relations without public announcement, and confirm formal recognition only if the Somalis ask us.

In short, this new government is in the saddle. It might still follow a responsible policy in the region, despite its irredentist cast. We have nothing to gain—and maybe something to lose—by playing, coy on the recognition issue when other Westerners and Africans are coming around.

Recommendation: That you clear the attached cable.

Approve cable [checkmark here]
Disapprove
Speak to me

Attachment

Draft Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Somalia

Washington, October 28, 1969

SUBJECT:

• Continuance Diplomatic Relations with New Government

REF:

• MOGADISCIO 3220 3221

Department hopes question continuance normal relations can be handled in same low key pragmatic way as was case Libya and as followed by U.S. in many other African changes of government. Embassy has continued routine contacts thereby facilitating return to normal diplomatic relations.

2. New Government has said would honor international agreements and evidenced control of Somalia.

1. Source: National Archives, Nixon Presidential Materials, NSC Files, Box 743, Country Files, Africa, Somalia Republic, Vol. I. Secret. Sent for action. Haig checked “Approve cable” for Kissinger. At bottom is written, “s/s informed (Brown) cable cleared by Watts - 10/29, 5:45 PMʼ per CF.”
2. Morris recommended approving an attached draft State telegram to the embassy in Mogadiscio instructing low-key recognition of the new military government in Somalia.