Foreign Relations of the United States, 1977–1980, Volume XVI, Southern Africa

270. Message From South African Prime Minister Vorster to President Carter¹

March 23, 1977

Why must we confront one another, why must we quarrel with each other?

Is there no way in which we can sort out our differences?

For my part I am prepared to receive a special envoy from the President for thorough discussions of the problems of Southern Africa.

The demands of time and the grave magnitude of the issues involved in the search for peace make the use of normal diplomatic channels inappropriate.

1. Source: Carter Library, National Security Affairs, Staff Material, North/South, Funk, Subject File, Box 114, South Africa: 1–3/77. No classification marking. Ambassador Botha delivered the message during his farewell call on Carter. See Document 269.