119. Telegram From the Legation in Yemen to the Department of State0
Taiz, December 22,
1962, 6 p.m.
240. Presented confirmation US recognition YAR to Baydani December 20.
Principal points ensuing private conversation follow:
- 1.
- I strongly and repeatedly stressed importance restraint Sallal and other YAR leaders as well as Sanaa Radio in public statements, saying inflammatory propaganda could have adverse effect on future course US-YAR relations. Baydani mentioned violent attacks by Mecca Radio against YAR and said he would be willing order Sanaa Radio moderate anti-Saudi line for 5 days and cease campaign entirely if Radio Mecca reacted by softer line. I said this unrealistic, as 5 days too brief period to permit informing SAG of YAR intentions; furthermore, behooves YAR adopt statesmanlike attitude rather than engage in “chicken or egg” controversy based on reciprocity principle. I added perpetuation propaganda battle jeopardizes prospect success disengagement process contemplated in President Kennedy’s message as next step after US recognition. [Page 274] Baydani asserted that, despite statements made for psychological effect, YAR fully intends fulfill all promises he had made to me during past month of negotiations.
- 2.
- Baydani asked whether I had anything to propose along line moralities [modalities] disengagement, e.g. meeting of representatives countries involved. I replied in negative but said I available discuss any YAR ideas on subject as mentioned President’s message.
- 3.
- In response enquiry re raising level US-YAR representation I replied our Mission would become an Embassy “in due course”.1 Further pressed re timing I said I not aware Department’s thinking, but assumed change might occur when I replaced by Resident Chief of Mission; also, time factor might be affected if YAR requested accreditation of Ambassador to US.
- 4.
- Re PL-480, I replied as instructed this under consideration. In reply his question I said he could so state publicly although it generally preferable avoid public discussion any US activities until definite decision reached.
- 5.
- Baydani reverted to subject US loan. I made clear YAR should not expect budget-support type credit and emphasized our lending agencies required thorough advance study establish fact project suitable and would result in sufficient economic benefit permit servicing of loan. He stated project YAR has in mind is Wadi Sirdud development, including sugar production. I said we would be glad study how we might be of help on this project and others within limits resources available; I emphasized, however, our present projects must be placed on efficient and cooperative operating basis before any new activity undertaken. I undertook ask AID/Y Director with key members staff proceed Sanaa in near future discuss all phases US aid program with him and other appropriate YAR officials.
Comment: Baydani is incorrigible publicity hound and prone distort facts and some elements foregoing conversation reached radio and press media in unrecognizable form.
Stookey