211. Memorandum From the Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern, South Asian, and African Affairs (Rountree) to the Secretary of State1
SUBJECT
- Richards Mission—Lebanon, March 14–172
Discussions
The President and other top officials received Richards cordially, demonstrated a clear understanding of the American Doctrine, and expressed approval of the United States policy in the Middle East. [Page 485] They emphasized the need for economic aid and indicated they would prefer help over a period of five or six years rather than a large lump sum. Lebanon fears communist penetration more than Soviet attack but needs a small army with modern arms.
Findings
Richards felt that the Lebanese endorsement of the Doctrine showed political courage. There is real fear of subversive activities supported by Egypt and Syria, but no intention or capability of attacking another country. Richards justifies economic aid on political rather than economic grounds, and is satisfied that limited military aid would have no effect on arms balance in the area.
Commitments
- (1)
- Economic development assistance on grant basis for housing, highways, irrigation, flood control, airport extension, etc.—$10 million.
- (2)
- Military defense assistance on grant basis for transport, engineering equipment, a few guns, etc., details to be decided by experts— $2.2 million.
Comments
Richards felt that the public impact would be particularly important in Lebanon, the first country on his itinerary. The Lebanese Government was apparently quite happy over the results of the visit.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 120.1580/5–1057. Secret. Drafted by Don C. Bliss. Also addressed to the Under Secretary of State.↩
- Regarding the Richards Mission visit to Lebanon, see vol. XIII, pp. 208–212.↩