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Tunisia - President Bourguiba
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1555859
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Tunisia - President Bourguiba
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Presidential Correspondence with Foreign Leaders (Ford Administration)
Presidential Correspondence with Foreign Leaders
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Angola
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American Revolution Bicentennial, 1776-1976
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The original documents are located in Box 4, folder "Tunisia - President Bourguiba" of
the National Security Adviser's Presidential Correspondence with Foreign Leaders
Collection at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Copyright Notice
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Gerald Ford donated to the United
States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.
Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public
domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to
remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid
copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Digitized from Box 4 of the NSA Presidential Correspondence with Foreign Leaders Collection at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
OF STATE
Department of State
oF STATE AMERICA UNITED
TELEGRAM
CONFIDENTIAL 6958
PAGE 01 STATE 050847
65
ORIGIN SS=25
INFO OCT-01 ISO=00 SSO-00 NSCE-00 /026 R
DRAFTED BY NEA/AFN*DLMACK
APPROVED BY NEA:SSOBER
S/S: REWOODS
WHITE HOUSE: MR. OAKLEY
057320
0 0622377 MAR 75
FM SECSTATE WASHDC
TO AMEMBASSY TUNIS IMMEDIATE
CONFIDENTIALSTATE050847
EXDIS
E.O. 11652: GDS
EXPEN
TAGS: PFOR, OVIR, TS
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL MESSAGE TO PRESIDENT BOURGUIBA
VISITS OF NOUIRA AND BOURGUIBA, JR.
REF: TUNIS 0954
1. FOLLOWING MESSAGE FROM PRES. FORD HAS BEEN DELIVERED TO
AMB. HEDDA FOR PRES. BOURGUIBA:
QUOTE DEAR
MR. PRESIDENT: I SINCERELY REGRET THAT YOU WILL BE UNABLE
TO VISIT ME IN WASHINGTON THIS SPRING, BUT I WANT TO
ASSURE YOU OF MY FULL UNDERSTANDING OF THE REASONS WHICH
PROMPTED YOUR DECISION. WHILE I GREATLY LOOKED FORWARD
TO A PERSONAL MEETING WITH YOU AND THE BENEFIT OF YOUR
UISE COUNSEL, I ALSO BELIEVE -- KNOWING THE BURDENS OF
YOUR OFFICE -- THAT YOUR PERSONAL HEALTH IS OF THE
UTMOST IMPORTANCE TO THE GREAT TASKS WHICH YOU FACE IN
SERVING THE TUNISIAN NATION. I AM REASSURED, AS MY
PREDECESSORS HAVE BEEN, BY YOUR STRENGTH AND LEADERSHIP
WHICH HAS MEANT SO MUCH TO THE WARM AND CLOSE RELATIONS
BETWEEN OUR TWO COUNTRIES.
P
FORD
2. I WANT TO REAFFIRM THE GREAT IMPORTANCE THE UNITED
STATES ATTACHES TO THE CONTINUATION OF CLOSE TIES BETWEEN
GERALD
LIBRARY
CONFIDENTIAL
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
Oda 3/9/04
for SIVIS of A
Department of State
OF STATE AMERICA UNITED
TELEGRAM
CONF IDENTIAL
PAGE 02 STATE 050847
TUNISIA AND THE UNITED STATES WHICH HAVE BROUGHT US
TOGETHER IN A COMMON SEARCH FOR PEACE AND PROGRESS IN
TUNISIA IN YOUR REGION AND AROUND THE WORLD. I BELIEVE
IT WOULD BE VERY USEFUL TO HAVE A HIGH-LEVEL EXCHANGE OF
VIEWS, INASMUCH AS YOU ARE PRECLUDED FROM COMING TO
WASHINGTON AT THIS TIME, I WOULD VERY MUCH WELCOME THE
OPPORTUNITY OF A MEETING WITH PRIME MINISTER NOUIRA, IF
YOU BELIEVE THIS WOULD BE USEFUL AND APPROPRIATE.
3. MR. PRESIDENT, MAY I EXTEND TO YOU MY VERY BEST
PERSONAL WISHES AND APPRECIATION FOR THE ROLE WHICH YOU
ARE PLAYING IN SUPPORT OF CONTINUED CLOSE RELATIONS
BETWEEN OUR NATIONS. SINCERELY, GERALD R. FORD. UNQUOTE.
4, PLEASE INFORM GOT THAT DEPARTMENT HAS PROVIDED
SIGNED COPY OF LETTER TO AMBASSADOR HEDDA FOR TRANSMITTAL
TO PRESIDENT BOURGUIBA. AMBASSADOR SEELYE MAY ALSO
INFORM GOT THAT INVITATION TO NOUIRA IS FOR AN OFFICIAL
VISIT ON MAY 1, TO INCLUDE A MEETING WITH THE PRESIDENT
AND A SMALL WORKING DINNER AND THAT, IF PRESIDENT
BOURGUIBA IS AGREEABLE, WE WOULD APPRECIATE CONFIRMA-
TION OF THAT DATE ASAP.
5. FYI: DEPARTMENT HAS ALSO MADE THE FOLLOWING POINTS
ORALLY TO AMBASSADOR HEDDA ON THE ISSUE OF THE REQUEST
FOR BOURGUIBA, JR08 THE PRESIDENT FULLY UNDERSTANDS
THE REASONS FOR THE CANCELLATION OF PRESIDENT BOURGUIBA'S
STATE VISIT BUT HE IS DELIGHTED TO INVITE PRIME MINISTER
NOUIRA FOR AN OFFICIAL VISIT IN HIS PLACE. BOTH
THE PRESIDENT AND SECRETARY KISSINGER'S SCHEDULES
ARE EXTREMELY HEAVY FOR THE NEXT TWO MONTHS, MAKING
AN ADDED MEETING WITH THE PRESIDENT FOR BOURGUIBA, JR.
VERY DIFFICULT SINCE THEY WOULD WANT TO RECEIVE HIM
PROPERLY. IT WOULD BE USEFUL TO HAVE PRESIDENT BOURGUIBA'S
OWN VIEWS ON THE IMPORTANCE OF A MEETING WITH BOURGUIBA,
JR. AT THIS TIME, IN LIGHT OF THE PRESIDENT'S INVITATION
TO PRIME MINISTER NOUIRA. END FYI.
6, WE ASSUME THAT AMBASSADOR SEELYE WILL BE ASKED
ABOUT THE REQUEST FOR A PRESIDENTIAL MEETING WITH
DERALD
R
FORD
CONF IDENTIAL
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
FORM
OF #TATE
*
Department of State
AMERICA UNITED
TELEGRAM
STATES OF
CONFIDENTIAL
PAGE 03 STATE 050847
BOURGUIBA, JR. UNTIL YOU RECEIVE FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS,
YOU SHOULD REPLY THAT YOU UNDERSTAND THAT THE DEPART-
MENT IS DISCUSSING THE MATTER WITH AMBASSADOR HEDDA. INGERSOLL
& FORD VIBRARY
CONF IDENTIAL
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
FORM
2
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Department of State
UNITED OF AMERICA
TELEGRAM
SECRET
NOD140
STATES
MAGE 41 TUNIS 00141 100039Z Copy
1
of 15 copies
61
ACTION NOD5-00
INFO OCT-01 ISO-00 1001 W
041312
0 0922452 JAN 75
FM AMEMBASSY TUNIS
TO SECSTATE WASHDC NIACT IMMEDIATE 1279
S ECRET TUNIS 0141
NODIS
E.O.: 11652: GOS
TAGS: PFOR, AO
SUBJI PRESIDENTIAL LETTER
REF I TUNIS 0140
FOLLOWING IS INFORMAL ENGASY TRANSLATION OF LETTER BY
PRESIDENT BOURGUIBA TO PRESIDENT FOR TRANSMITTED REFTEL:
MR. PRESIDENT:
I HAVE STUDIED WITH KEEN INTEREST THE LETTER WHICH YOU WERE
KIND ENOUGH TO SEND ME INFORMING ME OF YOUR VIEWS REGARDING
THE ANGOLA PROBLEM.
AS YOU KNOW) TUNISIA HAS ALWAYS SUPPORTED THE PEOPLE OF ANGOLA
IN THE FIGHT MHICH IT WAGED TO LIBERATE ITSELF FROM
PORTUGUESE COLONIALISM IN THE HOPE THAT IT WOULD OFTERMINE
ITS FUTURE IN A DEMOCHATIC AND SOVEREIGH WAY ONCE ITS
INDEPENDENCE HAS ACQUIRED.
I HAVE PERSONALLY. COME TO THE CONLUSION THAT EACH OF THE
THREE NATIONAL LIBERATION MOVEMENTS OF ANGOLA HAS INDIS-
PUTABLE POPULAR SUPPORT AND THAT THEY SHOULD, THEREFORE,
ALL THREE BE ASSOCIATED IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE NEW STATE.
THERFORE, I HAVE MADE EVERY POSSIBLE EFFORT TO HELP IN THE
CREATION OF A FAVORABLE CLIMATE FOR DIALOGUE AND RECONCILIATION.
SECRET
DECLASSIFIED
E.O. 12958, Sec. 3.5
By Cula
State Dept. Guidelines stateleview 9/17/03
, NARA, Date 3/9/04
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
DEPARTMENT
of
STATE
Department of State
LINED
AMERICA
SERRET
TELEGRAM
STATES
OF
PAGE 32 TUNIS 00141 1000392
ALSO, I HAVE ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS EXPRESSED TUNISIA'S
DESIRE TO SEE THE END OF FOREIGN INTERVENTION IN ANGOLAN
S
AFFAIRS, JUDGING THAT IF IT IS THE DUTY OF EVERY FREEDOM-
LOVING NATION TO GIVE AID TO PEOPLES CASTING OFF THE YOKE
OF COLONIALISM, NO COUNTRY HAS THE RIGHT TO INTERVENE IN
THE DOMESTIC AFFAIRS OF ANOTHER AND TO IMPOSE ON AN ENTIRE
PEOPLE ANY OF ITS FACTIONS.
THIS IS WHY TUNISIA HAS DECIDED TO OPPOSE ALL FOREIGN
INTERVENTION IN ANGOLA, IN AFFIARS WHICH CONCERN THE
EXCLUSIVE SOVEREIGNTY OF THE ANGOLAN PEOPLE.
I AM ESPECIALLY FIRMLY OPPOSED TO THE INTERVENTION BY THE
SOUTH AFRICAN REPUBLIC AND REJECT THE ARGUMENTS IT ADVANCES
TO JUSTIFY ITS PRESENCE IN ANGOLA, AND PARTICULARLY, THE
FALACIOUS PRETEXT OF "HOT PERSUIT".
I AM OF TE OPINON THAT THE CONTINUATION OF THIS PRESENCE IS
SUCH AS TO BRING THE MOST SERIOS HARM TO THEINTERSTS OF THE
FNLA AND LIUNITA, BY MAKING THESE TWO MOVEMENTS APPEAR TO
BE DE FACTO ALLIES OF THE APARTHEID REGIME.
S
FOR THIS REASON, I BELIEVE THAT THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
SHOULD AIM AT PERSUADING THE SOUTH AFRICAN REPUBLIC TO WITHDRAW
FROM ANGOLAN TERRITORY, SOMETHING WHICH WOULD NOT FAIL TO
INCITE THE OTHER FOREIGN FORCES TO DO THE SAME OR, AT THE VERY
LEAST, TO SUBJOCT THEM TO THE DISAPPROVAL OF THE AFRICAN
PEOPLES AND OTHER BY DEPRIVING THEM OF A MAJOR JUSTIFICATION.
I SHARE YOUR CONVICTION THAT GREAT POWER RIVALRIES SHOULD BE
EXCLUDED FROM AFRICA BUT I REMAIN CONVINCED THAT TO OBTAIN
A PROMPT WITHORAWAL OF THE PRO-SOVIET FORCES IN ANGOLA, THE
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA SHOULD PUT SERIOUS PRESSURES ON THE
SOVIET UNION.
SUCH A DEMARCHE ACCOMPANIED BY ACTION IN REGARD TO SOUTH
AFRICA -- WILL, WITHOUT & DOUBT, HAVE CONSIDERABLE REPER-
CUSSIONS ON THE ENTIRE CONTINENT AND A DECISIVE EFFECT ON THE
POLITICAL EQUILIBRIUM IN THE MEDITERRANEAN AND IN THE
S
WORLD BECAUSE IT HILL DEMONSTRATE THE DETERMINATION OF THE
UNITED STATES TO OPPOSE ALL ATTEMPTS BY THE SOVIETS TO EXTEND
SECRET
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Department of State
of UNITED AMERICA
TELEGRAM
STATES
SECRET
PAGE 03 TUNIS 00141 100030Z
THEIR INFLUENCE "OUTSIDE THEIR TRADITIONAL SECURITY AREA."
S
TUNISIA IS CONTINUING ITS EFFORTS FOR A RECONCILAIATION
AMONG THE THREE LIBERATION MOVEMENTS IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE A
GOVERNMENT OF NATIONAL UNITY WHICH COULD PENMIT THE COUNTRY
TO UNDERTAKE MEASURES TO ALLOW THE ANGOLAN PEOPLE TO EXPRESS
ITS VIEWS ON THE REGIME AND THE LEADERS OF ITS CHOICE,
THIS, IN ITS BROAD LINES, IS THE POSITION WHICH TUNISIA
WILL STRIVE TO SEE PREVAIL AT ADDIS ABABA ON THE OCCASION
OF THE FORTHCOMING SUMMIT MEETING OF THE ORGANIZATION OF
AFRICAN UNITY. SALUTARY CLOSE, SIGNED HABIB BOURGHIBA.
KING
S
CHECK
SECRET
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
DEPARTMENT
OF
LDX
3
STATE
CREDIT
Department of State
UNITED STATES OF
TELEGRAM
SEPRET
NOn126
STATES
PAGE 01 TUNIS 00140 m92217Z
COPY
/
OF 15 COPIES
61
ACTION NODS-00
S
INFO OCT-01 ISC-00 1001 W
039575
0 0922007 JAN 76
FM AMEMBASSY TUNIS
TO SECSTATE WASHDC NIACT IMMEDIATE 1278
S E 0 R E F TUNIS 0140
NODIS
CLEANED
E.O.: 11652: GDS
TAGS: PFOR, AO
SOBJ: PRESIDENTIAL LETTER
THERE FOLLOWS FRENCH ORIGINAL OF PRESIDENT BOURGIUBA'S
REPLY TO PRESIDENT FORD'S LETTER ON ANGOLA. INFORMAL TRANS-
LATION AND ORAL COMMENTS OF PRESIDENTIAL AIUE DELIVERING
LETTER CONTAINED NEXT TWO TELS,
S
CARTHAGE, LE 9 JANVIER 1976
MONSIGNN LE PRESIDENT,
JPAI PRIS CONNAISSANCE AVEC UN VIF INTERET DE LA LETTRE
QUE vous AVEZ BIEN VOULU MIADRESSER POUR ME FAIRE PART DE
YUS VOES CONCERNANT LE PROBLEME ANGCLAIS.
COMME VOUS LE SAVEZ, LA TUNISIE 4 TOUJOURS APPORTE SON AIDE
CHILD
AU REURLE ANGOLAIS DANS LA LUTTE QUTIL A MENEE POUR SE
LIBERER DU COLONIALISME PORTUGAIS EN SOUHAITANT GU'IL
SE PRONONCE, SOUVERAINEMENT ET DEMOCRA TIQUEMENT, SUR SON
CHECKED
AVENIA. UNE FOIS SON INDEPENDANCE ACQUISE.
JIAL, PERSOUNELLEMENT, ABOUTI A LA CONCLUSION QUE CHACUN
DES THOIS MOUVEMENTS DE LIBERATION ANGOLAIS, DISPOSE
DIASSISES PUPULAIRES INDISCUTABLES ET QU'ILS DOIVENT DONC
ETRE TOUS TROIS ASSOCIES DANS LA CONTRUCTION DU NOUVEL ETAT.
S
AUSSI, AI-JE DEPLOYE TOUS LES EFFORTS POSSIBLES POUR AIDER
SECRET
DECLASSIFIED
E.O. 12958, Sec. 3.5
State Dept. Guidelines state Review 9/17/03
men
,
NARA, Date 3/9/04
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
DEPARTMENT
OP
STATE
HUMBER
Department of State
UNITED STATES OF
TELEGRAM
SECRET
PAGE 02 TUNIS 00140 0922177
A L'INSTAURATION DIUN CLIMAT FAVORABLE AU DIALOGUE ET A LA
S
RECONCILIATION.
PAR AILLEURS, JIAI EXPRIME A MAINTES REPRISES LE DESIR DE LA
TUNISIE DE VOIR CESSER LES INTERVENTIONS ETRANGERES DANS LES
AFFAIRES ANGOLIAISES ESTIMANT QUE, S'IL EST DU DEVOIR DE
TOUT ETAT EPRIS DE LIBERTE D'AIDER LES PEUPLES A SE DEFAIRE
DU JOUG DOLONIAL, AUCUN PAYS, PAR CONTRE, NIA LE DROIT
D'INTERVENIR DANS LES AFFAIRES INTERIEURES D'UN AUTRE ET
DIIMPOSER LIUNE DE SES FACTIONS A TOUT UN PEUPLE.
CIEST POURQUOI LA TUNISIE EST DECIDEE A S'OPPOSER A TOUTE
IMMIXTION ETRANGERE EN ANGOLA, DANS DES AFFAIRES QUI RELEVENT
DE LA SOUVERAINETE EXCLUSIVE DU PEOPLE ANGOLIAS.
JE SUIS EN PARTICULIER FERMEMENT OPPOSE A L'INTERVENTION DE
LA REPUBL IQUE SUD AFRICAINE, ET REJETTE LES ARGUMENTS QU'ELLE
AVANCE POUR JUSTIFIER SA PRESENCE EN ANGOLA E-T NOTAMMENT LE
PRETEXTE FALLACIEUX DU "DROIT DE SUITE".
JIESTIME QUE LE MAINTIEN DE CETTE PRESENCE EST DE NATURE A
PORTER LE PLUS GRAVE PREJUDICE AUX INTERETS A PORTER LE PLUS
GRAVE PREJUDICE AUX INTERETS DU F.L.N.A. ET DE LIU.N.I.T.A,
EN PRESENTENT CES DEUX MOUVEMENTS COMME LES ALLIES DE FAIT
DU REGIME DE L' APARTHEID.
POUR CETTE RAISON, JE CONSIDERE QUE L'ACTION DES ETATS-UNIS
D'AMERIQUE DEVRAIT TENDRE A AMENER LA REPUBLIQUE SUD AFRICAINE
A SE RETIRER DU TERRITOIRE ANGOLAIS, CE QUI NE MANQUERA PAS
D'INCITER LES AUTRES FORCES ETRANGERES A EN FAIRE AUTANT, 00,
CONTAINED
A TOUT LE MOINS, DE LES DESIGNER A LA DESAPPROBATION
DES PEUPLES AFRICAINS ET AUTRES EN LES PRIVANT DIUNE JUSTIF-
ICATION MAJEURE,
JE PARTAGE VOTRE COVICTION QUE LES RIVILITES DES GRANDES
PUISSANCES DEVRAIENT ETRE EXCLUES DE LIAFRIQUE, MAINS
DEMEURE PERSUADE QUE, POUR ORTENIR UN RETRAIT RAPIDE DES
DORCES PROSOVIETIQUES EN ANGOLA, LES ETATS-UNIS DEVRAIENT
S
EXERCER UNE PRESSION SERIEUSE SUR LIUNION SOVIETIQUE.
UNE TELLE DEMARCHE, DOUBLEE DIUNE ACTION. SUR L'AFRIQUE ou
SECRET
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETAR
PC
OF STATE
CHILLID
Department of State
UNITED STATES OF
TELEGRAM
-
SEARET
PAGE 03 TUNIS 00140 0922177
suo, AURA, A NIEN PAS DOUTER, DES REPERCUSSIONS CONSIDERABLES
SUR LIENSEMBLE DU CONTIENT ET DES EFFETS DETERMINANTS SUR
S
LIEQUILIBRE POLITIQUE EN MEDITERRANEE ET DANS LE MONDE,
DANS LA MESURE OU ELLE DEMONTRER LA DETERMINATION DES
ETATS-UNIS A S'OPPOSER A TOUTE TENTATIVE DES SOVIETIQUES
DIETENDRE HEUR INFLUENCE "EN DEHORS DE LEUR ZONE TRADITION-
NELLE DE SECURITE".
LA TUNISIE CONTINUE SES EFFORTS POUR UNE RECONCILIATION ENTRE
LES TROIS MOUVEMENTS DE LIBERATION EN VUE DE LA FORMATION
D'UN GOUVERNEMENT DIUNION NATIONALE QUI POURRAIT ENGAGER LE
PAYS DANS UN PROCESSUS PERMETTANT AU PEUPLE ANGOLAIS DE SE
PRONONCER SUR LE REGIME ET LES HOMMES DE SON CHOIX.
Green
TELLE EST, DANS SES GRANDES LIGNES, LA POSITION QUE LA
TUNISIE ESSAIERA DE FAIRE VALDIR A ADDIS-ABDBA, A L'OCCASION
DE LA PROCHAINE CONFERENCE AU SOMMET DE LIORGANISATION DE
LIUNITE AFRICAINE.
VEUILLEZ AGREER, MONSIEUR LE PRESIDENT, L'ASSURANCE DE MA
S
TRES HAUTE CONSIDERATION.
HABIB BOURGUIBA
S
SEPRET
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETAR
594
4a
7601276
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Washington, D.C. 20520
January 29, 1976
SECRET/NODIS
MEMORANDUM FOR MR. BRENT SCOWCROFT
THE WHITE HOUSE
SUBJECT: Tunisian President Bourguiba's Reply to
President Ford's Letter on Angola
Attached is the original of President Bourguiba's
January 9 letter to President Ford in response to
President Ford's January 3 letter to President Bourguiba
regarding Angola.
Both the French text and the informal English
translations were submitted by the American Embassy
in Tunis by cable on January 9, (Tunis telegrams
00140 and 00141 respectively).
No response is required.
Ein W. Newson
for
George S. Springsteen
Executive Secretary
Attachment:
Original January 9 letter to President Ford
DECLASSIFIED
SECRET/NODIS
E.O. 12958, Sec. 3.5
XGDS-1
State Dept. Guidelines
By
Wa
, NARA, Date 3/9/ON
RÉPUBLIQUE TUNISIENNE
Le Président
Carthage, le 9 Janvier I976
Monsieur le Président,
J'ai pris connaissance avec un vif intérêt
de la lettre que vous avez bien voulu m'adresser pour me
faire part de vos vues concernant le problème angolais.
Comme vous le savez, la Tunisie a toujours
apporté son aide au peuple angolais dans la lutte qu'il
a menée pour se libérer du colonialisme portugais en
souhaitant qu'il se prononce, souverainement et démocra-
tiquement, sur son avenir, une fois son indépendance
acquise.
J'ai, personnellement, abouti à la conclusion
que chacun des trois mouvements de libération angolais,
dispose d'assises populaires indiscutables et qu'ils
doivent donc être tous trois associés dans la construction
DECLASSIPIED
12958, Sec. 3.5
B.O. Guidelines stale Review 9/17/03
du nouvel Etat. Aussi, ai-je déployé tous les efforts
possibles pour aider à l'instauration d'un climat favorable
NARA, Date 3/9/04
au dialogue et à la réconciliation.
Par ailleurs, j'ai exprimé à maintes
reprises le désir de la Tunisie de voir cesser les
Dept. State
interventions étrangères dans les affaires angolaises
estimant que, s'il est du devoir de tout Etat épris de
2.-
liberté d'aider les peuples à se défaire du joug colonial,
aucun pays, par contre, n'a le droit d'intervenir dans
les affaires intérieures d'un autre et d'imposer l'une
de ses factions à tout un peuple.
C'est pourquoi la Tunisie est décidée à
s'opposer à toute immixtion étrangère en Angola, dans des
affaires qui relèvent de la souveraineté exclusive du
peuple angolais.
Je suis en particulier fermement opposé à
l'intervention de la République Sud Africaine, et rejette
les arguments qu'elle avance pour justifier sa présence
en Angola et notamment le prétexte fallacieux du "droit
de suite".
J'estime que le maintien de cette présence
est de nature à porter le plus grave préjudice aux
intérêts du F.L.N.A et de l'U.N.I.T.A , en présentant ces
deux mouvements comme les alliés de fait du régime de
1' apartheid.
Pour cette raison, je considère que l'action
des Etats-Unis d'Amérique devrait tendre à amener la
République Sud Africaine à se retirer du territoire
angolais, ce qui ne manquera pas d'inciter les autres
forces étrangères a en faire autant, ou, à tout le moins,
de les désigner à la désapprobation des peuples africains
et autres en les privant d'une justification majeure.
Je partage votre conviction que les
rivalités des grandes puissances devraient être exclues
de l'Afrique, mais demeure persuadé que, pour obtenir
un retrait rapide des forces prosoviétiques en Angola,
les Etats-Unis devraient exercer une pression sérieuse sur
l'Union Soviétique.
Une telle démarche, doublée d'une action
sur l'Afrique du Sud, aura, à n'en pas douter, des
répercussions considérables sur l'ensemble du continent
et des effets déterminants sur l'équilibre politique en
Méditerranée et dans le monde, dans la mesure où elle
démontrera la détermination des Etats-Unis à s'opposer à
toute tentative des Soviétiques d'étendre leur influence
"en dehors de leur zone traditionnelle de sécurité".
La Tunisie continue ses efforts pour une
reconciliation entre les trois mouvements de libération
en vue de la formation d'un Gouvernement d'union nationale
qui pourrait engager le pays dans un processus permettant
au peuple angolais de se prononcer sur le régime et les
hommes de son choix.
Telle est, dans ses grandes lignes, la
position que la Tunisie essaiera de faire valoir à
Addis-Abeba, à l'occasion de la prochaine conférence
au sommet de l'Organisation de l'Unité Africaine.
Veuillez agréer, Monsieur le Président,
l'assurance de ma très haute considération.
Son Excellence
Monsieur Gérald R. FORD
Président des Etats Unis
d'Amérique
Habib BOURGUIBA
DOC
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LOG NBR
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29
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REFERENCE:
CIRCLE AS APPROPRIATE
TO: PRES
FROM: KISSINGER, H
S/S 7601276
UNCLAS LOG IN/OUT
KISSINGER
COLBY, W
OTHER
LOU
NO FORN
NODIS
SOURCE/CLASS/DESCRIPTION
SCOWCROFT
SCHLESINGER, J
C
EYES ONLY EXDIS
DAVIS
ST EX SEC
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CODEWORD
TS
SENSITIVE
SUBJECT Ack ltr to Pres fm Pres HABIB BOUREUIBA
re Pres recent lte to him re angela
INTERNAL ROUTING AND DISTRIBUTION
REC
ACTION REQUIRED
ACTION
INFO.
CY
ADVANCE CYS TO HAK/SCOWCROFT
FOR
MEMO FOR HAK
(
)
STAFF SECRETARY
MEMO FOR PRES
(
)
REPL) FOR
FAR EAST
(
)
PPROPRIATE ACTION
(
)
DISTRIBUTION/INITIAL ACTION ASGMT
SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA
MID EAST / NO. AFRICA / SO. ASIA
MEMO
TO
(
)
EUROPE / CANADA
RECOMMENDATIONS
(
)
JOINT MEMO
(
LATIN AMERICA
)
REFER TO
FOR:
(
)
UNITED NATIONS
ECONOMIC
ANY ACTION NECESSARY?
(
)
SCIENTIFIC
CONCURRENCE.
(
)
PROGRAM ANALYSIS
DUE DATE:
NSC PLANNING
COMMENTS: (INCLUDING SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS)
CONGRESSIONAL
OCEANS POLICY
INTELLIGENCE
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WH
EP
PA
DY
(NSC.75-22)
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 18, 1976
Dear Mr. President:
It is with great pleasure that I extend to you and to
your fellow citizens my warmest congratulations on
the historic occasion of the 20th Anniversary of the
independence of the Republic of Tunisia.
This is a very special time for you and your people.
In recognition of the deep admiration we have for you
and your country, and in the spirit of close friendship
our countries have enjoyed for two decades, I have
asked Vice President Rockefeller to represent the
United States of America at your celebration.
Throughout the twenty years of your independence,
the United States and Tunisia have enjoyed warm
and constructive relations based on mutual respect
and on our common belief in human dignity. This
is a relationship in which the United States takes
great pride. We are committed to maintaining and
strengthening our ties in the future.
Your wise leadership of Tunisia and its benefits to
your people are recognized and applauded throughout
the world. Tunisia, guided by moderation and
realism, has served as a model for many other
nations. We are gratified to have been able to play
a role in the development of your successful economic
and social programs.
rono
?
GERALD
Mr. President, you have my deepest admiration
for the courage and vigor with which you have
pursued the policies which have led your nation
forward with success and confidence. I extend to
you and to the people of Tunisia the warmest
greetings of the American people on this special
day. You may be assured of my continuing commit-
ment to the closest possible relations between
Tunisia and the United States.
Warm personal regards,
HeraldR Ford
His Excellency
Habib Bourguiba
President of the Republic of Tunisia
Tunis
THE WHITE HOUSE SITUATION ROOM
5B
TIME SENT:
RECEIVED:
'76 MAR 19 AM 8:00
MAR 19 08 04:76
State
LDX NR: 272 JATION HOUSE REAGES: 2
11P
CIA
DIA/G
STATE
DIA/H
NMCC
TREAS
ANMCC
NPIC
RETURN TO
NSA
ERDA
FROM: Situation Room
-IL-
TO: MR. GeoRge SpRingsteen
Exec. Secretary
form
4
GERALD
5C
THE WHITE HOUSE SITUATION ROOM
wet
TIME SENT:
RECEIVED:
MAR 18 1718'76
'76 MAR 18 PM 5:15
LDX NR: # 266 To HOUSE PAGES: 2
ATION ROOM
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STATE
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NMCC
TREAS
ANMCC
NPIC
BEST copy
USA
ERDA
AVAILABLE
FROM
MIKE HORNBLOW
TO:
FOR
LOU MURRAY
RM 6253
632-2294
with The
> NSC/S
for your files
sues
add
Mike Hornblow
Retyped: 1470
Dear Mr. President:
It is with great pleasure that I extend to you and to
your fellow citizens my warmest congratulations on
the historic occasion of the 20th Anniversary of the
independence of the Republic of Tunisia.
This is a very special time for you and your people.
In recognition of the deep admiration we have for you
and your country, and in the spirit of close friendship
our countries have enjoyed for two decades, I have
asked Vice President Rockefeller to represent the
United States of America at your celebration.
Throughout the twenty years of your independence,
the United States and Tunisia have enjoyed warm
and constructive relations based on mutual respect
and on our common belief in human dignity. This
is a relationship in which the United States takes
great pride. We are committed to maintaining and
strengthening our ties in the future.
Your wise leadership of Tunisia and its benefits to
your people are recognized and applauded throughout
the world. Tunisia, guided by moderation and
realism, has served as a model for many other
nations. We are gratified to have been able to play
a role in the development of your successful economic
and social programs.
Mr. President, you have my deepest admiration
for the courage and vigor with which you have
pursued the policies which have led your nation
forward with success and confidence. I extend to
you and to the people of Tunisia the warmest
greetings of the American people on this special
day. You may be assured of my continuing commit-
ment to the closest possible relations between
Tunisla and the United States.
Warm personal regards,
His Excellency
Habib Bourguiba
President of the Republic of Tunisia
Tunis
Retyped:GRF:BS:feg:3/17/76
SE
LDX MESSAGE RECEIPT
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
SITE
MAR is 11 40'76
S/S # B05878
'76 MAR 19 AM 11 4
WHILE HOUSE
SITUATION RG
LDX MESSAGE NO.
2261
CLASSIFICATION LIMITED OFFICIAL USE No. Pages 2
FROM:
S/S
(Officer name)
(Office symbol)
(Extension)
(Room number)
MESSAGE DESCRIPTION Springsteen/Scowcroft re French Translation of Bourquit
Letter
LDX TO: (Agency) DELIVER TO:
Extension
Room No.
NSC - Mrs. Jeanne Davis
REMARKS:
PER REQUEST
yk
URGENT
S/S Officer:
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
S/S 7605878
Washington, D.C. 20520
maller
March 19, 1976
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
MEMORANDUM FOR MR. BRENT SCOWCROFT
THE WHITE HOUSE
SUBJECT: Vice President Rockefeller's Visit to
Tunisia - French Translation of Letter
to President Bourguiba
Attached is a copy of the French Translation of
President Ford's letter to President Bourguiba.
C. arth Bong
for
George S. Springsteen
Executive Secretary
Attachment
President Ford's letter to President Bourguiba
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
18 mars 1976
Monsieur le Président,
C est avec grand plaisir que je vous adresse, ainsi qu' à vos concitoyens,
mes félicitations les plus chaleureuses à l' occasion de la date historique du
vingtième anniversaire de 1' independance de la République tunisienne.
Cette journée revêt une signification toute particulière pour vous-même
et pour votre peuple. En témoignage de 1' admiration profonde que nous eprou-
vons pour vous et pour votre pays, et dans l' esprit d' amitié étroite qui unit
nos pays depuis deux decennies, j' ai chargé le Vice President Rockefeller de
representer les Etats-Unis d' Amerique à votre commemoration.
Depuis que votre pays est independant, les Etats-Unis et la Tunisie
jouissent de relations chaleureuses et constructives fondées sur le respect
mutuel et notre foi commune en la dignité humaine. C' est un rapport dont
les Etats-Unis s' enorgueillissent. Nous nous devons de maintenir et de
renforcer nos liens dans 1' avenir.
La sage direction que vous donnez à la Tunisie et les avantages que votre
peuple en retire sont reconnus et applaudis de par le monde. Guidee par la
moderation et le réalisme, la Tunisie a servi de modèle à de nombreuses autres
nations. C" est pour nous un motif de satisfaction que d' avoir pu participer
au succès de vos programmes économiques et sociaux.
Monsieur le Président, mon admiration la plus profonde vous est acquise
pour le courage et la vigueur dont vous avez fait preuve en poursuivant les
politiques qui ont mené votre pays de l' avant dans le succès et la confiance.
En ce grand jour, je vous adresse, j' adresse au peuple tunisien, les souhaits
les plus chaleureux du peuple americain. Soyez assure que j' ai pris l' enga-
gement de maintenir les relations les plus étroites possibles entre la Tunisie
et les Etats-Unis.
Je vous prie de croire, Monsieur le Président, à ma très haute et très
chaleureuse consideration.
/signé/ Gerald R. Ford
MEMORANDUM
THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN
5H
THE WHITE HOUSE
1470
ACTION
WASHINGTON
March 17, 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR:
THE PRESIDENT
B
FROM:
BRENT SCOWCROFT
SUBJECT:
Letter to President Bourguiba of Tunisia
The Vice President will represent you and the American people at
celebrations in honor of the 20th anniversary of Tunisian independence,
on Saturday, March 20, in Tunis. This visit, as a first stop in the
Vice President's travels to the Far East, will be a concrete and much
appreciated manifestation of US interest in Tunisia.
Since this is a special occasion, I believe it would be fitting for you to
send a warm letter to President Bourguiba, to be presented by the Vice
President. President Bourguiba would be extremely pleased; he still
regrets that his health made it impossible for him to visit you last year.
US-Tunisian relations are excellent, in considerable part a result of
President Bourguiba's immense affection for our country over the past
twenty years.
The proposed letter for your signature to Bourguiba at Tab A extends
your congratulations and your admiration for him and for the Tunisian
people. Mr. Hartmann's office has cleared the text of the proposed
letter.
RECOMMENDATION:
That you sign the letter to President Bourguiba of Tunisia at Tab A.
[The Vice President will carry this with him when he departs on Friday.]
FORD
Job
GERALD ?
RM
mH
1470
AH
MEMORANDUM
Add-on
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
ACTION
March 16, 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR
BRENT SCOWCROFT
FROM:
ROBERT B. OAKLEY
TWO
SUBJECT:
Presidential Message to President Bourguiba
of Tunisia -- The Vice President's Visit
State recommends that the Vice President carry a letter from the
President to President Bourguiba of Tunisia when he visits there
this Saturday. Though we understand that the Vice President may
not be doing this for other stops, this is a special occasion in Tunis
by virtue of its 20th anniversary and I agree a Presidential letter
would be appropriate.
Attached is the State draft. At Tab I is a memo for the President
with a revised suggested letter cleared with Doug Smith.
RECOMMENDATION: That you forward the memo at Tab I to the
President seeking his signature on the letter to President Bourguiba.
We should have the final signed version by Thursday afternoon since
the Vice President departs Friday.
APPROVE TAB I
APPROVE TAB I AS AMENDED
SUGGESTED LETTER
Dear Mr. President:
It gives me particular pleasure to congratulate
you and the Tunisian people on the twentieth anniver-
sary of Tunisia's independence, and I am asking Vice
President Rockefeller to deliver this letter to you
personally on my behalf and on behalf of the people
of the United States of America.
Tunisia and the United States have enjoyed close
and mutually beneficial relations during the entire
twenty years of Tunisia's independence. This is a
relationship in which the United States takes great
pride, and one we will strive to maintain and
strengthen in the future.
We admire the dramatic progress which the
Tunisian people have made since independence and are
gratified that we have been able to participate with
your Government in many of your successful economic
and social development programs.
His Excellency
Habib Bourguiba,
President of the Republic of Tunisia,
Tunis.
Department of State
- 2 -
The results of your wise and pragmatic leadership
of the Tunisian people since independence are well known
and recognized throughout the world community. Tunisia,
guided by its sense of moderation and realism, has
indeed served as a model for many other nations as
they have entered the post-colonial period.
It gives me great personal satisfaction to send
to you, Mr. President, and to the Government and people
of Tunisia, the warmest greetings of the American people
on this twentieth anniversary of your Country's indepen-
dence. May Tunisia continue to progress and prosper in
friendship with all nations.
Sincerely,
Gerald R. Ford
1470
MEMORANDUM
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
March 15, 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR:
JON HOWE
FROM:
JEANNE W. DAVIS
just
SUBJECT:
fn
Vice Presidential Public
:
Statements Tunisia
At Tab B are State's suggested arrival statement, departure statement
and toast for the visit to Tunisia. At Tab A are our revised texts of
each of these three items.
The proposed letter from the President to President Bourguiba is
b eing staffed separately.
A
5m
Suggested Arrival Statement
It is with great personal pleasure that I come to Tunisia to
represent President Ford and the American people at the ceremonies
marking the twentieth anniversary of Tunisian independence. I have
long admired the wisdom and courage of Tunisia's President Bourguiba.
I look forward to meeting with him again, and to conveying the best
wishes of my Government and the American people on this historic day.
The United States values highly the close relations we have enjoyed
with Tunisia over the past two decades. We intend to make every
effort to ensure that these friendly ties are maintained and strengthened
in coming years.
Tunisia is a good and honored friend. The United States admires
in particular the energetic and pragmatic manner in which Tunisia has
a pproached the challenge of development. It has set a dramatic example
for many other developing countries as they have emerged
m
colonial
rule. We have also admired the ability of the Tunisian people to con-
struct new and mutually beneficial ties both with old associates and
with the many new countries that have appeared on the world scene in
the past twenty years.
Indeed, Tunisia can be said to have only friends. One needs no
other measure that this to gauge the success of Tunisia's first twenty
years as an independent nation. This can only augur well for Tunisia's
continued progress toward the full achievement of her goals and aspirations.
PAGE 2
I am grateful for this opportunity to share with President Bourguiba,
his Government, and the Tunisian people the commemoration of this
historic day, and to wish them continued success in the future.
-
Suggested Toast (if required)
I'am deeply honored to have been asked by President Ford to
represent him and the American people at these ceremonies marking
the twentieth anniversary of Tunisian independence. I deeply appreciate
the opportunity to respond to the Prime Minister's gracious remarks
on behalf of the other delegations.
First, if I may, I would like to note the very close relationship
which exists between my country and Tunisia. The United States has
been closely associated with Tunisia for the past two decades, and
this association is based on a sense of mutual respect and friendship.
It is also based on the common belief that national goals are best set
by the consent of the governed through democratic processes, and that
a duty of any state is the protection of the political, economic and social
rights of their citizenry.
The efforts of the Tunisian people have shown impressive results.
The important lesson of the Tunisian experiment is that political, economic
and social gains can be achieved and freedom preserved if wise leader-
ship is coupled with a broadly supported sense of national purpose res-
pecting the rights of others. These are the two essentials to progress,
peace, and democracy. President Bourguiba and the Tunisian people
can justly be proud of the fruits of their effort.
The United States and Tunisia have not always agreed on all
international issues, but we have never disagreed on the role of reason
PAGE 2
and moderation in world affairs. Tunisia has always supported dialogue
rather than confrontation among states, and this is essential if peaceful
solutions are to be found to the many problems which still face the world
community.
I believe that the clear mark of the success of the Tunisian experiment
is that Tunisia enjoys cordial relations with virtually every country of
the world. It can truly be said that Tunisia is the friend of all, and we
raise our glasses, Mr. Prime Minister, that this shall ever be.
Departure Statement
My only regret is that I have been able to spend so short a time
in Tunisia on this brief trip representing President Ford and the American
people on the twentieth anniversary of Tunisian independence.
We have seen the enormous economic and social progress which
has been achieved in the few years since Tunisia gained its independence, but
even more importantly, we have seen that Tunisia has been able to make
and preserve these successes while remaining true to its democratic
ideals. President Bourguiba and the Tunisian people share in the credit
for this achievement.
I have valued the opportunity of meeting again with President
Bourguiba and Prime Minister Nouira, and of hearing their views on
the many issues in which the United States and Tunisia have a common
interest. I shall, upon my return, convey to President Ford their
thoughtful comments.
The United States looks forward to the continuation of the excellent
relations we enjoy with the Government and people of Tunisia. My wife
joins me in thank you for your unforgettable hospitality. We hope to visit
again soon.
B
1470
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
7605045
Washington, D.C. 20520
March 11, 1976
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
MEMORANDUM FOR MR. BRENT SCOWCROFT
THE WHITE HOUSE
Subject: Visit of Vice President Rockefeller to
Tunisia for the 20th Anniversary of
Tunisian Independence, March 20-21, 1976
Attached are the suggested texts for public state-
ments which the Vice President may wish to make during
his visit to Tunisia. These include arrival and
departure statements, and a toast should one be required.
As the visit will take place on a Saturday and the
Embassy will be officially closed, Ambassador Seelye and
the Vice President's office believe it would be inconven-
ient for Mr. Rockefeller to address the staff in Tunis.
Consequently no talking points for this meeting are
included.
Also attached is a draft letter from President Ford
to President Bourguiba.
C.
George S. Springsteen Exg
arthur
Executive Secretary
Attachments:
1. Arrival Statement
2. Departure Statement
3. Toast
4. Letter from President to President Bourguiba
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
57
Suggested Arrival Statement
It is with great personal pleasure that I come to
Tunisia to represent President Ford and the American
people at the ceremonies marking the twentieth anniver-
sary of Tunisian independence. I have long admired
the wisdom and courage of Tunisia's President Bourguiba
and I look forward to meeting with him again, and to
conveying the best wishes of my Government and the
American people on this historic day. The United
States values highly the close relations we have
enjoyed with Tunisia over the past two decades, and
we will make every effort to ensure that these
friendly ties are maintained and strengthened in
coming years.
Tunisia is a good and honored friend, and the
United States admires the energetic and pragmatic manner
in which Tunisia has approached the challenge of develop-
ment. It has set a worthy example for many other developing
countries as they have emerged from colonial rule. We
have also admired the ability of the Tunisian people
to put past differences behind them, and to construct
new and mutually beneficial ties both with old associates
and with the many new countries that have appeared on
the world scene in the past twenty years.
- 2 -
Indeed Tunisia can be said to have no enemies, and
only friends. One needs no other measure than this
to gauge the success of Tunisia's first twenty years as
an independent nation. This can only augur well for
Tunisia's continued progress toward achieving in full
measure the high goals which have been set by the
Tunisian people.
I am grateful for this opportunity to share with
President Bourguiba, his Government, and the Tunisian
people the commemoration of this historic day, and to
wish them continued success in the future.
FORD
+
Departure Statement
My only regret is that I have been able to spend
SO, short a time in Tunisia on this brief trip representing
President Ford and the American people on the twentieth
anniversary of Tunisian independence.
We have seen the enormous economic and social
progress which has been achieved in the few years since
Tunisia gained its independence, but even more importantly,
we have seen that Tunisia has been able to make and
preserve these successes while remaining true to its
democratic ideals. President Bourguiba and the Tunisian
people share in the credit for this achievement.
I have valued the opportunity of meeting again with
President Bourguiba and Prime Minister Nouira, and of
hearing their views on the many issues in which the
United States and Tunisia have a common interest. Presi-
dent Ford will be interested in their thoughtful comments.
The United States looks forward to the continuation
of the excellent relations we enjoy with the Government
and people of Tunisia, and my wife joins me in thanking
you for your unforgettable hospitality. We hope to visit
again soon.
Suggested Toast (if required)
I am deeply honored to have been asked by Presi-
dent Ford to represent him and the American people at
these ceremonies marking the twentieth anniversary
of Tunisian independence, and I appreciate the oppor-
tunity of responding to the Prime Minister's gracious
remarks on behalf of the other delegations.
First, if I may, I would like to note the very
special relationship which exists between my country
and Tunisia. The United States has been closely
associated with Tunisia for the past two decades, and
this association is based on a sense of mutual respect
and friendship. It is also based on the common under-
standing that governments exist to achieve the national
goals which peoples set for themselves through democratic
processes, and that states must also be committed to
the protection of the inalienable political, economic
and social rights of their citizenry.
The efforts of the Tunisian people have indeed
shown impressive results. The important lesson of the
Tunisian experiment is that political, economic and
social gains can be achieved and freedom preserved
if wise leadership is coupled with a broadly supported
sense of national purpose respecting the rights of others.
These are the two essentials to progress, peace, and
- 2 -
democracy. President Bourguiba and the Tunisian
people can justly be proud of the fruits of their
effort.
The United States and Tunisia have not always
agreed on all international issues, but we have never
disagreed on the role of reason and moderation in world
affairs. Tunisia has always supported dialogue rather
than confrontation among states, and this is essential
if peaceful solutions are to be found to the many
problems which still face the world community.
I believe that the clear mark of the success of
the Tunisian experiment is that Tunisia has no enemies,
and that she enjoys cordial relations with virtually
every country of the world. It can truly be said that
Tunisia is the friend of all, and we raise our glasses,
Mr. Prime Minister, that this shall ever be.
I
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
March 16
FOR JEANNE DAVIS
Jeanne,
You could send the attached package to
Jon Howe.
Pm
Bob Oakley
1470
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
7605045
Washington, D.C. 20520
March 11, 1976
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
MEMORANDUM FOR MR. BRENT SCOWCROFT
THE WHITE HOUSE
Subject: Visit of Vice President Rockefeller to
Tunisia for the 20th Anniversary of
Tunisian Independence, March 20-21, 1976
Attached are the suggested texts for public state-
ments which the Vice President may wish to make during
his visit to Tunisia. These include arrival and
departure statements, and a toast should one be required.
As the visit will take place on a Saturday and the
Embassy will be officially closed, Ambassador Seelye and
the Vice President's office believe it would be inconven-
ient for Mr. Rockefeller to address the staff in Tunis.
Consequently no talking points for this meeting are
included.
Also attached is a draft letter from President Ford
to President Bourguiba.
C.
George S. Springsteen Goog
arthur
Executive Secretary
Attachments:
already
Arrival Statement
torwarded
fir
2.
Departure Statement
3.
Toast
4. Letter from President to President Bourguiba
Staff
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
Suggested Arrival Statement
It is with great personal pleasure that I come to
Tunisia to represent President Ford and the American
people at the ceremonies marking the twentieth anniver-
sary of Tunisian independence. I have long admired
the wisdom and courage of Tunisia's President Bourguiba
and I look forward to meeting with him again, and to
conveying the best wishes of my Government and the
American people on this historic day. The United
States values highly the close relations we have
enjoyed with Tunisia over the past two decades, and
we will make every effort to ensure that these
friendly ties are maintained and strengthened in
coming years.
Tunisia is a good and honored friend, and the
United States admires the energetic and pragmatic manner
in which Tunisia has approached the challenge of develop-
ment. It has set a worthy example for many other developing
countries as they have emerged from colonial rule. We
have also admired the ability of the Tunisian people
to put past differences behind them, and to construct
new and mutually beneficial ties both with old associates
and with the many new countries that have appeared on
the world scene in the past twenty years.
- 2 -
Indeed Tunisia can be said to have no enemies, and
only friends. One needs no other measure than this
to gauge the successof Tunisia's first twenty years as
an independent nation. This can only augur well for
Tunisia's continued progress toward achieving in full
measure the high goals which have been set by the
Tunisian people.
I am grateful for this opportunity to share with
President Bourguiba, his Government, and the Tunisian
people the commemoration of this historic day, and to
wish them continued success in the future.
Departure Statement
My only regret is that I have been able to spend
so short a time in Tunisia on this brief trip representing
President Ford and the American people on the twentieth
anniversary of Tunisian independence.
We have seen the enormous economic and social
progress which has been achieved in the few years since
Tunisia gained its independence, but even more importantly,
we have seen that Tunisia has been able to make and
preserve these successes while remaining true to its
democratic ideals. President Bourguiba and the Tunisian
people share in the credit for this achievement.
I have valued the opportunity of meeting again with
President Bourguiba and Prime Minister Nouira, and of
hearing their views on the many issues in which the
United States and Tunisia have a common interest. Presi-
dent Ford will be interested in their thoughtful comments.
The United States looks forward to the continuation
of the excellent relations we enjoy with the Government
and people of Tunisia, and my wife joins me in thanking
you for your unforgettable hospitality. We hope to visit
again soon.
Suggested Toast (if required)
I am deeply honored to have been asked by Presi-
dent Ford to represent him and the American people at
these ceremonies marking the twentieth anniversary
of Tunisian independence, and I appreciate the oppor-
tunity of responding to the Prime Minister's gracious
remarks on behalf of the other delegations.
First, if I may, I would like to note the very
special relationship which exists between my country
and Tunisia. The United States has been closely
associated with Tunisia for the past two decades, and
this association is based on a sense of mutual respect
and friendship. It is also based on the common under-
standing that governments exist to achieve the national
goals which peoples set for themselves through democratic
processes, and that states must also be committed to
the protection of the inalienable political, economic
and social rights of their citizenry.
The efforts of the Tunisian people have indeed
shown impressive results. The important lesson of the
Tunisian experiment is that political, economic and
social gains can be achieved and freedom preserved
if wise leadership is coupled with a broadly supported
sense of national purpose respecting the rights of others.
These are the two essentials to progress, peace, and
- 2 -
democracy. President Bourguiba and the Tunisian
people can justly be proud of the fruits of their
effort.
The United States and Tunisia have not always
agreed on all international issues, but we have never
disagreed on the role of reason and moderation in world
affairs. Tunisia has always supported dialogue rather
than confrontation among states, and this is essential
if peaceful solutions are to be found to the many
problems which still face the world community.
I believe that the clear mark of the success of
the Tunisian experiment is that Tunisia has no enemies,
and that she enjoys cordial relations with virtually
every country of the world. It can truly be said that
Tunisia is the friend of all, and we raise our glasses,
Mr. Prime Minister, that this shall ever be.
5AF
Retyped: 1470
Dear Mr. President:
It is with great pleasure that I extend to you and to
your fellow citizens my warmest congratulations on
the historic occasion of the 20th Anniversary of the
independence of the Republic of Tunisis.
This is a very special time for you and your people.
In recognition of the deep admiration we have for you
and your country, and in the spirit of close friendship
our countries have enjoyed for two decades, I have
asked Vice President Rockefeller to represent the
United States of America at your celebration.
Throughout the twenty years of your independence,
the United States and Tunisia have enjoyed warm
and constructive relations based on mutual respect
and on our common belief in human dignity. This
is a relationship in which the United States takes
great pride. We are committed to maintaining and
strengthening our ties in the future.
Your wise leadership of Tunisia and its benefits to
your people are recognized and applauded throughout
the world. Tunisia, guided by moderation and
realism, has served as a model for many other
nations. We are gratified to have been able to play
a role in the development of your successful economic
and social programs.
R
DERALD
Mr. President, you have my deepest admiration
for the courage and vigor with which you have
pursued the policies which have led your nation
forward with success and confidence. I extend to
you and to the people of Tunisia the warmest
greetings of the American people on this special
day. You may be assured of my continuing commit-
ment to the closest possible relations between
Tunisia and the United States.
Warm personal regards,
His Excellency
Habib Bourguiba
President of the Republic of Tunisia
Tunis
Retyped:GRF:BS:feg:3/17/76
&
GERALD
Retyped: 1470
5BB
1470
ACTION
MEMORANDUM FOR:
THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
BRENT SCOWCROFT
SUBJECT:
Letter to President Bourguiba of Tunisia
The Vice President will represent you and the American people at
celebrations in honor of the 20th anniversary of Tunisian independence,
on Saturday, March 20, in Tunis. This visit, as a first stop in the
Vice President's travels to the Far East, will be a concrete and much
appreciated manifestation of US interest in Tunisia.
Since this is a special occasion, I believe it would be fitting for you to
send a warm letter to President Bourguiba, to be presented by the Vice
President. President Bourguiba would be extremely pleased; he still
regrets that his health made it impossible for him to visit you last year.
US-Tunisian relations are excellent, in considerable part a result of
President Bourguiba's immense affection for our country over the past
twenty years.
The proposed letter for your signature to Bourguiba at Tab A extends
your congratulations and your admiration for him and for the Tunisian
people. Mr. Hartmann's office has cleared the text of the proposed
letter.
RECOMMENDATION:
That you sign the letter to President Bourguiba of Tunisia at Tab A.
[The Vice President will carry this with him when he departs on Friday.]
FORD
n
DERALD
5CC
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Dear Mr. President:
It is with greatest pleasure that I extend to you and
to your fellow citizens my warmest congratulations
on th historic occasion of the 20th Anniversary of
the independence of the Republic of Tunisia.
recognition
This is a very special time for you and your people.
In view of the high respect deep and admiration we have
for you and your country, and in the spirit of close
friendship our countries have enjoyed for two decades,
I have asked Vice President Rockefeller to represent
the United States of America at your celebration.
Throughout the twenty years of your independence,
the United States and Tunisia have enjoyed warm
and constructive relations based on mutual respect
and on our common belief in human dignity. This
is a relationship in which the United States takes
great pride. We are committed to maintaining and
strengthening our ties in the future.
Your wise leadership of Tunisia and its benefits to
your people are recognized and applauded throughout
the world. Tunisia, guided by moderation and
realism, has served as a model for many other
nations. We are gratified to have been able to play
a role in the development of your successful economic
and social programs.
Mr. President, you have my deepest admiration
for the courage and vigor with which you have
pursued the policies which have led your nation
forward with success and confidence. I extend to
you and to the people of Tunisia the very warmest
greetings of the American people on this special
day. You can be assured of my continuing commit-
ment to the closest possible relations between
Tunisia and the United States.
Warm personal regards,
His Excellency
Habib Bourguiba
President of the Republic of Tunisia
Tunis
5DD
MEMORANDUM
1470
ACTION
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
MEMORANDUM FOR:
THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
BRENT SCOWCROFT
SUBJECT:
Letter to President Bourguiba of Tunisia
The Vice President will represent you and the American people at
celebrations in honor of the 20th anniversary of Tunisian indepen-
dence, this Saturday, March 20, in Tunis. This visit, as a first
stop in the Vice President's travels to the Far East, will be a very consrete
and appreciated unampestation
timely expression of US interest in Túnisia.
Since this is a special occasion, I/believe it would be fitting for you
to send a warm letter to President Bourguiba, to be presented by the
Vice President. President Bourguiba would be extremely appreciative;
plased;
he still regrets that his health has made it impossible for him emullerable tovisit
you in Washington. US-Tunisian relations are excellent, in la rge part
a result of President Bourguiba's immense affection for our country e
over the past 20 years.
lostysas.
The proposed letter for your signature to Bourguiba at Tab A extends
your congratulations ánd your admiration for him and for the Tunisian
people. Mr. Hartmann's office has cleared the text of the proposed
letter.
RECOMMENDATION:
That you sign the letter to President Bourguiba of Tunisia at Tab A.
[The Vice President will cary this with him when he departs on Friday. ]
AT
GERALD
SEE
Dear Mr. President:
It is with greatest pleasure that I extend to you and to your
fellow citizens my warmest congratulations on this historic
occasion of the 20th Anniversary of the independence of the
Republic of Tunisia.
This is a very special time for you and your people. In view
of the high respect and admiration we have for you and your
country, and in the spirit of close friendship our countries
have enjoyed for two decades, I have asked Vice President
Rockefeller to represent the United States of America at
your celebration.
Throughout the twenty years of your independence, the United
States and Tunisia have enjoyed warm and constructive relations
based on mutual respect and on our common believe in democratic
traditions. This is a relationship in which the United States takes
great pride. We are committed to maintaining and strengthening
our ties in the future.
Your wise leadership of Tunisia and its benefits to your people
are recognized and applaude throughout the world. Tunisia,
guided by moderation and realism, has served as a model for
many other nations. [For our part, We are gratified to have
it has been dramatic and social development programs.
been able to play a role in development, your your standards
Mr. President, you have my deepest admiration for the courage
and vigor with which you have pursued the policies which have led
your nation forward, with success and confidence. I extend to
you and to the people of Tunisia the very warmest greetings of
the American people on this special day. You can be assured
of my continuing commitment to the closest possible relations
between Tunisia and the United States.
With arm personal regards,
His Excellency
Habib Bourguiba
FOILD
President of the Republic of Tunisia
&
Tunis
GERALD
state draft
SUGGESTED LETTER
Dear Mr. President:
It gives me particular pleasure to congratulate,
you and the Tunisian people on the twentieth anniver-
sary of Tunisia's independence, and I am asking Vice
President Rockefeller to deliver this letter to you
personally on my behalf and on behalf of the people
of the United States of America.
Tunisia and the United States have enjoyed close
and mutually beneficial relations during the entire
twenty years of Tunisia's independence. This is a
relationship in which the United States takes great
pride, and one we will strive to maintain and
strengthen in the future.
We admire the dramatic progress which the
Tunisian people have made since independence and are
gratified that we have been able to participate with
your Government in many of your successful edonomic
and social development programs.
His Excellency
Habib Bourguiba,
President of the Republic of Tunisia,
Tunis.
Department of State
- 2 -
The results of your wise and pragmatic leadership
of the Tunisian people since independence are well known
and recognized throughout the world community. Tunisia,
guided by its sense of moderation and realism, has
indeed served as a model for many other nations as
they have entered the post-colonial period.
It gives me great personal satisfaction to send
to you, Mr. President, and to the Government and people
of Tunisia, the warmest greetings of the American people
on this twentieth anniversary of your Country's indepen-
dence. May Tunisia continue to progress and prosper in
friendship with all nations.
Sincerely,
Gerald R. Ford
5th
DOC
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LOG NUMBER
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INITIAL ACTION o
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FROM: SECSTATE
S/S 7605045
UNCLAS Dabley
SCOWCROFT
SECDEF
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EXDIS
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SOURCE/CLASS/DESCRIPTION
OTHER
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SENSITIVE
SUBJECT Draft Pres ltr to Bourguiba & Droft texts
for UP use re UP trip to Tunisia for 2012
anniversary AND CONCUR- of DISTRIBUTION COOR- Independence INFO REC ACTION REQUIRED 20- 21 Mar 1976
CY
RENCE
DINATE
FOR
ADV GYS S'CROFT WGH
MEMO FOR SCOWCROFT
STAFF SECRETARY
MEMO FOR PRES
CONGRESSIONAL
REPLY FOR
ECONOMIC
DISTRIBUTION/INITIAL ACTION ASGMT
APPROPRIATE ACTION
EUR/ CANADA/ OCEANS
MEMO
TO
FAR EAST PRC
RECOMMENDATIONS
INTELLIGENCE
JOINT MEMO
LATIN AMERICA
REFER TO
FOR:
MID EAST/ NO. AFRICA
X
ANY ACTION NECESSARY?
NSC PLANNING
CONCURRENCE
PROGRAM ANALYSIS
SCIENTIFIC
DUE DATE: 3/16
COMMENTS: (INCLUDING SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
SUB-SAH/ AFRICA/ UN
Howe, J
Leonard, m
(ADVAnce
cy)
DATE
FROM
TO
STATUS
SUBSEQUENT ACTION REQUIRED (OR TAKENI:
DUE
CY TO
3/15
SUBSEQUENT ROUTING/ACTIONS
3/16
Suit
Dorin for Remo to Home 35/19
X
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3/18
PRES 59D LTR TO BourguiBA
3/19
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3/19
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HOUE
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MICROFILM a FILE ROMTS
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SPECIAL DISPOSITION: Cy GARWARDED 3/18-76 TO
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NSC 76-21
U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE - 599-022 - 1976
599-022
RÉPUBLIQUE TUNISIENNE
Carthage, le 4 Juin 1976
Le Président
Monsieur le Président,
Les Etats-Unis d'Amérique célèbrent cette année le
bicentenaire de leur indépendance.
Cette commémoration revêt aux yeux de la Tunisie une
signification profonde, car l'évènement avait marqué l'amorce d'un
vaste mouvement de l'Histoire en même temps que l'affermissement
et la mise en oeuvre de principes de gouvernement auxquels nous
sommes particulièrement attachés.
Pour ces raisons, j'ai la conviction que tous les peuples
qui se nourrissent aux sources de la démocratie et de la liberté
prennent une part sincère à cette commémoration.
Pendant des décennies, j'ai personnellement mené un combat
acharné pour le triomphe de ces principes et pour l'établissement
entre nations de relations fondées sur la confiance et le respect
mutuels.
Ce fut pour moi un rêve, c'est aujourd'hui une réalité
pour mon pays.
Au cours de cette longue lutte et aux plus sombres moments
de la période coloniale, j'ai veillé avec un soin particulier à
sauvegarder les liens d'amitié et d'estime que nos deux Etats ont
établis dès l'aube de l'histoire des Etats-Unis.
GERALD
2.
Vous comprendrez pourquoi, Monsieur le Président, j'aurais
eu le plus grand plaisir à prendre part, personnellement, avec vous,
aux manifestations commémoratives du bicentenaire.
Je suis amené, hélas, à y renoncer, mon état de santé ne
me permettant plus de supporter des écarts d'horaires importants.
Aussi je tiens à déléguer mon fils pour me représenter
personnellement et exprimer, au nom de la Tunisie, notre volonté de
maintenir et de renforcer les rapports d'amitié et de coopération
qui existent entre nos deux pays.
Le présent qu'il vous remettra en mon nom, la Tunisie
veut y voir non seulement le symbole antique de la paix, mais aussi
l'arbre dont la fécondité séculaire continue de récompenser la
persévérance dans l'effort.
Qu'il soit l'expression de l'hommage que le peuple
tunisien rend à la fois à l'oeuvre d'édification et de paix de la
nation américaine.
Je saisis cette occasion pour adresser au peuple américain
ami mes félicitations chaleureuses et mes voeux sincères de prospérité
A vous-même, Monsieur le Président, j'adresse les plus
vifs souhaits de succès, de bonheur et de santé en vous priant de
croire à ma très haute et amicale considération.
Habib BOURGUIBA
Président de la République Tunisienne
Son Excellence
Monsieur Gerald R. FORD
Président des Etats-Unis d'Amérique
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
DIVISION OF LANGUAGE SERVICES
(TRANSLATION)
LS NO. 56844
MM/MSS
French
TUNISIAN REPUBLIC
The President
Carthage, June 4, 1976
Mr. President:
This year the United States of America is celebrating the bicenten-
nial of its independence. This commemoration has deep meaning for Tunisia,
because the event marked the beginning of a vast movement of history and
the strengthening and application of principles of government to which we
are particularly attached.
For these reasons, it is my conviction that all peoples who draw
strength from the sources of democracy and freedom join sincerely in
this commemoration. For decades I personally waged a strenuous battle
for the triumph of these principles and for the establishment among
nations of relations based on trust and mutual respect.
This was my dream and it is today a reality for my country. During
that long struggle and in the darkest moments of the colonial period, I
was especially careful to safeguard the bonds of friendship and esteem
which our two States established at the dawning of United States history.
His Excellency
Gerald R. Ford,
President of the
United States of America.
2
You will understand, Mr. President, why it would have been my greatest
pleasure to take part personally with you in the events commemorating the
bicentennial. Regrettably, I shall be unable to attend as my state of
health no longer permits extensive travel.
Therefore, I am appointing my son to represent me personally and to
express, on behalf of Tunisia, our desire to maintain and to strengthen
the relations of friendship and cooperation which exist between our two
countries.
The gift which my son will deliver to you on my behalf represents
for Tunisia not only the ancient symbol of peace, but also the tree whose
age-long fruitfulness continues to reward perseverance in the struggle.
May it serve to express the homage of the Tunisian people to your nation's
work of enlightenment and of peace.
I avail myself of this occasion to convey to the American people my
warm congratulations and sincere wishes of prosperity. To you, Mr. President,
I extend the most ardent wishes for success, happiness, and health, and beg
you to accept the assurances of my very high and friendly consideration.
[s] Bourguiba
Habib Bourguiba
President of the Tunisian Republic