Office of the Historian

229. Memorandum From Secretary of State Vance to President Carter1

Washington, June 10, 1978

1. Meeting with Foreign Minister Bouteflika—During a lengthy conversation with Algerian Foreign Minister Bouteflika today he gave me a letter from President Boumediene to you protesting France’s military intervention in the western Saharan conflict.2 I outlined at some length our African policy. It was useful to have the chance to discuss these issues with him. I stressed the importance of prompt resolution of the Namibian and Rhodesian problems and asked their support, particularly with Nujomo—with whom they have a close relationship. He indicated they would help. Bouteflika correctly pointed out that a solution to the Namibian problem would have a positive spill-over effect on Angolan-Zairean issues.3

Bouteflika acknowledged there have been secret peace talks between Rabat and Algiers on the western Sahara war. However, he said these have not been productive. I indicated we would continue to be neutral on this issue.

[Omitted here is material unrelated to the Western Sahara.]

  1. Source: Carter Library, National Security Affairs, Brzezinski Material, Subject File, Box 20, Evening Reports (State): 6/78. Secret. Carter initialed the memorandum.↩
  2. See Document 63. In telegram 148838 to Algiers, the Department transmitted the text of the English translation of Boumediene’s letter. (National Archives, RG 59, Central Foreign Policy File, D780246–0111)↩
  3. Carter wrote in the left-hand margin: “Many leaders say that Boumedienne is a top man—very influential. Again—we should strengthen ties with him.” For Carter’s reply to Boumediene’s letter, see Document 64.↩