Office of the Historian

212. Memorandum From the Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern, South Asian, and African Affairs (Rountree) to the Secretary of State1

Washington, April 4, 1957.

SUBJECT

  • Richards Mission—Libya, March 17–202

Discussions

The King and Prime Minister approved the American Doctrine without reservation, indicating that Libya has no fear of U.S. intentions. The Prime Minister argued for special consideration since the United States is the only power which could raise the Libyan standard of living. He warned that aid to the bad boys at the expense of our friends would invite the overthrow of friendly governments and encourage blackmail. Libya is confronted by a “little Russia” next door, but the U.S. should not worry about Nasser propaganda.

Findings

Richards observes Libya is a desert Kingdom dependent on subsidies, the government is primitive, and it is like a marionette with Egypt, Russia and the U.S. pulling the strings. Nasser is the most popular person in the country due to his emotional appeal, but the government is committed firmly to the West. The problem of the Mission was not to sell the Doctrine but simply to determine the level of aid, taking into account that Libya is already getting $20 million from us, plus $8 million from Wheelus Base goods and services. The Libyan shopping list totalled $30 million, but Richards decided to concentrate on broadcasting and education for their immediate political impact.

Commitment

Economic development grant aid for broadcasting, teachers college, economic survey, water supply—$4.5 million

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Comments

The Libyans were deeply disappointed, requested that the commitment not be announced, and urged postponement of the final decision until the end of the trip. Richards agreed to consider this, and feels that the Libyans have a strong case. The Embassy has argued strongly for a “contingent” program of $10 million.

  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 120.1580/5–1057. Secret. Drafted by Bliss. Also addressed to the Under Secretary of State.↩
  2. For documentation on the Richards Mission visit to Libya, see vol. XVIII, pp. 472–479. For text of the joint communiqué issued on March 20 in Tripoli, see Department of State Bulletin, May 6, 1957, p. 726.↩