161. Telegram From the Mission to the United Nations to the Department of State1
2084. 16th GA Presidency. Deptel 1346.2Stevenson met with Slim (Tunisia) during translation in SC this morning. He told him of high regard in which US holds him and his talents and expressed hope that these would be at service GA as presiding officer 16th Session which will mark moment of great crises and need for UN. This would be tribute both personally, to his country, and to continent of Africa. Stevenson added hope that Slim might make announcement his candidacy as early as possible and appropriate.
Slim replied by expressing gratitude for confidence shown and indicated his definite intention to run. He said his candidacy would be on behalf of all of Africa and for that reason he intended announce it as soon as he had been able ascertain backing of Africans was available. He therefore felt it not possible make announcement before resumed session commenced, at which time he would actively pursue his goal.
In response to Stevenson’s question Slim said he felt confident he would be able obtain support from all of Africans. He mentioned having heard of possibility Ali (Indonesia) had been considering running, but he thought it doubtful Asia would be entitled to consideration for Presidency when Africans had for so long been denied it. We noted report that several Asians seeking discourage Ali from running which would confirm his feeling about candidacy of African state being entitled consideration this year.
- Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Central Files 1960–63, 320/2–261. Confidential.↩
- See footnote 2, Document 160.↩