251. Telegram From the Embassy in Morocco to the Department of State1
814. Subject: (S) Moroccan-Algerian Talks.
1. (S)–Entire text.
2. During Linowitz visit February 4 King Hassan mentioned that “after year and a half” he had gotten discussions started again with the Algerians. Talks had taken place a few days previously and would resume “in earnest” in the next week.
3. From other sources we have learned that Royal Counselor Guedira went to France on January 23 and met with the Algerians on January 25. To the best of our knowledge Guedira remains in Paris.
4. The above information and the Boucetta interview (Rabat 0796)2 reinforce my earlier contention that the Moroccans have essentially done what we wanted in demonstrating their willingness—and what appears increasingly as eagerness—to talk seriously about the Sahara.
5. Suggest Department repeat this cable to Algiers and to Tunis Eyes Only for Coon and possibly Paris.
- Source: Carter Library, National Security Affairs, Brzezinski Material, Country File, Box 56, Morocco: 9/79–1/81. Secret; Immediate; Nodis. Printed from a copy that was received in the White House Situation Room.↩
- In telegram 796 from Rabat, February 4, the Embassy reported: “In an interview with a Parisian Arabic weekly, Foreign Minister Boucetta took a conciliatory line on the Western Sahara and related issues. Boucetta reaffirmed Morocco’s desire for a dialogue with Algeria and King Hassan’s continued willingness to meet with Algerian President Bendjedid. Boucetta did not rule out Polisario representation in an Algerian delegation during Moroccan-Algerian talks.” (National Archives, RG 59, Central Foreign Policy File, D800067–0975)↩