Foreign Relations of the United States, 1981–1988, Volume XXIV, North Africa

6. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassies in Algeria and Tunisia¹

133439.

Washington, May 21, 1981, 3347Z

SUBJECT

• Analysis of Algerian-Tunisian Relations.

1. (C) Entire text.

2. Recent reporting from the field and contacts in Washington have drawn attention to dramatic improvement in Algerian Tunisian relations since Gafsa incident in 1980.² Some have characterized developments as a “sea change.” Department is aware of some elements of the improving relationship, e.g. “hot line” between Tunis and Algiers, reciprocal high-level visits of security officials, and completion of gas pipeline to Italy via Tunisia. We have tended to interpret rapprochement as a common response to Libyan threat both because of timing and substance. We would appreciate your in-house assessment of this subject to complete our understanding of its extent and significance. We would invite you to address as well the following questions:

— What opportunities do these developments offer the US in the context of regional problems, i.e. Qadhafi and the Western Sahara, and our bilateral relations?

— What impact does this rapprochement have on the Soviet position in North Africa?³

3. Many thanks for your help.

Haig

1. Source: Department of State, Central Foreign Policy File, Electronic Telegrams, D810044–0751. Confidential. Drafted by Edmund Hull (NEA/AFN); cleared by John Hamilton (NEA/AFN) and for information by Lillian Harris (INR); approved by Flaten. Sent for information to Rabat.
2. See footnote 2, Document 107.
3. No response from either Embassy has been found.