Foreign Relations of the United States, 1955–1957, Africa, Volume XVIII

198. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Morocco¹

Washington, September 23, 1956—2:39 p.m.

108. Rabat’s 142.² Department believes we should make all appropriate effort discourage Moroccans from establishing diplomatic relations Soviets and satellites at this time, recognizing, however, there are limits to which we can go in light over-all US relations that country. In general we leave Ambassador’s discretion manner of presentation and extent to which he feels it wise press Moroccans this subject.

Department approves line suggested antepenultimate paragraph reference telegram³ although believes we should be careful avoid any implication of threat re future US-Moroccan relations. You are free make clear Moroccans would have appropriate support this Government in event decision is to reject Soviet request.

You may also point out that sudden interest Soviets and satellites in Morocco where legitimate interests are minimal after long period indifference surely reflects on their motives and must raise suspicions re real intentions. This has been familiar Soviet maneuver in newly independent areas where they have worked against established authority and national unity. At this time when no compelling reason establish diplomatic relations with Soviets, such action could needlessly complicate Morocco’s internal problems and relations with West which is so sympathetic to her stable and prosperous development.

In rejecting Soviet note, Moroccans may wish make use following arguments:

1. Before extending its diplomatic establishment further GOM considers it necessary concentrate on and dispose of basic problems of transition affecting general welfare Moroccan people.

2. Thereafter GOM will be better able assess justification for assuming burden supporting additional diplomatic missions.

3. Moroccan diplomatic establishments in third countries and Delegation at UN available for conduct any essential business between two countries.

You are authorized attribute foregoing to Department in discussions with Balafrej.

Dulles

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 661.71/9–2656. Secret; Priority. Drafted by Palmer. Repeated to Paris and by pouch to Tangier, London, Casablanca, Algiers, and Tunis.
2. Telegram 142, September 22, stated that Balafrej informed Ambassador Cannon that the Soviets for the third time indicated their interest in establishing diplomatic relations and that Bulgaria and Czechoslovakia were also interested. (Ibid., 661.71/9–2256)
3. Cannon suggested that the Department of State might recommend deferring action until Morocco and the United States had resolved outstanding matters of common concern. He also raised the possibility of referring to U.S. objections to the establishment of a Soviet mission close to Western defense positions.