162. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Tunisia1
417. Deptel 407.2
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- Following are principal points made during May 20 call on Secretary by Tunisian Ambassador Driss.3 They are FYI, Noforn, and subject revision upon review:
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Bourguiba Visit US.
Referring recent consultations Tunis, Driss expressed President’s appreciation for invitation; indicated that if it envisaged as “working visit” and there something to discuss, it possible Bourguiba arrange to come this year. If question protocol or courtesy visit, then next year might be better. However, did not wish leave impression Bourguiba unwilling to come. Secretary assured Ambassador invitation not protocol one, and visit conceived as opportunity for two Presidents discuss informally not just bilateral matters but also wide range international problems—e.g., Africa and Arab world, UN. We do not view visit as connected with any particular problems between our two govts. We working on these separately in hope of early progress. We do not suggest President alter planned European visits, nor on other hand to postpone US visit indefinitely. Perhaps we can find mutually agreeable time this year; however, if not, then early next year.
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US-Tunisian Relations
Amb said Tunisians hopeful proposed visit might be new take-off point in US–GOT relations to even higher plane than presently exists. Expressed GOT concern over Soviet arms to Egypt and Algeria, and Tunisia’s obligation to protect economy and political system. While grateful for US aid, GOT unhappy with delays in implementation and with quantities. Driss concurred in Secretary’s comment that Tunisia’s per capita aid one of highest, but on other grounds he felt it deserves more. Secretary said we would look into ways of reducing administrative delays, but of course procedures and questions involved of necessity take time.
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Military Assistance
Secretary questioned whether Tunisia’s security could ever be answered primarily by military means, and whether internal security and support by friends outside not more important. Said Survey Team Report under consideration in high levels USG and hoped transmit results soon to GOT. Driss insisted Tunisia had to be able defend itself during initial attack, friends notwithstanding.
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Tunisian-French Relations
Driss said relations seem to be improving; however, Tunisian cooperation with France would not be allowed to occur at expense of cooperation with US. Secretary said we favored improvement, and do not consider ourselves as rivals of France or Europe in Tunisia’s foreign relations.