234. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Morocco1
22608.
Washington, January 24, 1985, 1952Z
For Ambassador. Subject: Informing King Hassan of Bendjedid Visit.
- 1.
- S—Entire text
- 2.
- We are postponing the simultaneous USG–GOA public announcement of Algerian President
Bendjedid’s state visit
until you have the opportunity privately to inform King Hassan.
Following points are provided for your use:
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- As you know, President Reagan extended an invitation to President Bendjedid to make a state visit in 1985. Bendjedid, accepted and a date for the visit now has been set—April 17.
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- This will be the first visit to the US by President Bendjedid, and the first visit by an Algerian head of state since 1972 when President Boumedienne visited.
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- We welcome our improving bilateral relations with Algeria. These relationships do not detract from our long-standing close ties with Morocco.
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- Indeed, we strongly believe that strengthened US relations with Algiers will enhance our ability to contribute to stability and progress in the Maghreb.
Shultz
- Source: Department of State, Central Foreign Policy File, Electronic Telegrams, D850054–0426. Secret; Immediate. Drafted by Thomas Wukitsch (NEA/AFN); cleared by Zweifel and Linda Mysliwy; approved by Nassif. Sent for information Immediate to Algiers.↩