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Liberia - President Tolbert (2)
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1555832
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Liberia - President Tolbert (2)
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collections
Presidential Correspondence with Foreign Leaders (Ford Administration)
Presidential Correspondence with Foreign Leaders
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Angola
Liberia
Africa
Cuba
Soviet Union
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1555832
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1976-10-31
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10
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1976
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1975-07-01
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7
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1975
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The original documents are located in Box 3, folder "Liberia - President Tolbert (2)" 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States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.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 3 of the NSA Presidential Correspondence with Foreign Leaders Collection at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
(
The White House
Washington
1975 JUL 20 PM I 02
WN2 328 VIARCA
MONROVIA JULY 20 1975
THE PRESIDENT
WHITE HOUSE
MY GREAT AND GOOD FRIEND CMA WE IN LIBERIA HAVE
RECEIVED WITH DEEP SATISFACTION AND PROFOUND
GRATIFICATION THE JOYOUS NEWS OF THE SUCCESSFUL
EVENT OF A LINK-UP IN SPACE BETWEEN THE
AMERICAN APOLLO AND THE RUSSIAN SOYUZ 19
SPACECRAFTS FORMING A SPACETRAIN WHICH PERMITTED
EXCHANGE OF VISITS IN SPACE BY THE RUSSIAN
COSMONAUTS AND THE AMERICA ASTRONAUTS WHO WARMLY
GREETED EACH OTHER AS FRIENDS AND ENABLED THEM
TO PERFORM JOINT EXPERIMENTS OF GREAT SCIENTIFIC
VALUE TO MANKIND STOP THIS REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENT
IS NO DOUBT AN AFFIRMATION OF THE CORRECTNESS
OF A POLICY OF OBJECTIVE COOPERATION BY
AMERICAN AND SOVIET SCIENTISTS CMA DESIGNERS CMA
FORD
?
GERALD
4084
(
(
1
(
2
3
4
(
5
6
ENGINEERS AND SPACEMEN WHICH NOW OPENS VAST NEW
7
(
8
POSSIBILITIES IN THE PURSUIT OF SCIENTIFIC
9
10
KNOWLEDGE FOR PEACEFUL PURPOSES STOP IT IS OUR
( 11
12
FERVENT HOPE THAT THIS TYPE OF INTERNATIONAL
13
( 14
COOPERATION IN SPACE TECHNOLOGY WILL REFLECT
15
16
ITSELF IN ALL AREAS OF HUMAN ENDEAVOURS BRINGING
( 17
18
19
20
21
22
(
23
24
25
(
26
5
6
TOGETHER ALL MEN TO GOODWILL EVERYWHERE so THAT
7
(
8
THE RESOURCES OF THIS PLANET WILL BE UTILIZED
9
10
FOR THE IMPROVEMENT IN THE STANDARD OF LIVING
( , 11
12
AND THE ESTABLISHMENT AND MAINTENANCE OF PEACE
13
(
14
AND SECURITY THROUGHOUT OUR ONE WORLD STOP ON
15
16
BEHALF OF THE GOVERNMENT AND PEOPLE OF LIBERIA
(
17
18
19
(
20
21
22
( : 23
24
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GERALD n FORD
1
2
3
4
5
6
EYE EXTEND HEARTIEST CONGRATULATIONS TO YOUR
7
8
EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNMENT AND PEOPLE OF THE
9
10
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THROUGH YOU TO
=
12
THE DAUNTLESS AND GALLANT ASTRONAUTS FOR THEIR
13
14
INDEFATIGABLE AND DEDICATED SERVICES TO HUMANITY
15
16
STOP IN COMMEMORATION OF THIS OUTSTANDING FEAT
7
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
6
OF ACHIEVEMENT IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY THE
7
8
GOVERNMENT OF LIBERIA HAS COMMISSIONED THE
STRIKING OF POSTAGE STAMPS WHICH WILL BE USED
2
FOR MAIL DISTRIBUTION THROUGHOUT THE WORLD
EVIDENCING OUR BELIEF IN THE NEED OF COMMUNICATION
AS A PREREQUISITE TO INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION FOR
FORD LIBRARY
4081
4004.
HUMAN PROGRESS CMA ADVANCEMENT AND WORLD PEACE
STOP WITH RENEWED ASSURANCES OF MY HIGHEST
CONSIDERATION AND PERSONAL ESTEEM SIMCERELY
WR TOLBERT JR
FORM 0805 PRINTED BY THE STANDARD REGISTER COMPANY u S
DERALD R FORD
2
N
slp
OF STATE
Department of State
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
TELEGRAM
SEFRET
NO0965
PAGE at MONROV 00130 0815547
C
41
ACTION NODS-00
S
ACTION COPY
INFO OCT-01 ISO-00 1001 W
019031
R 0811322 JAN 76
FM AMEMBASSY MONROVIA
TO SECSTATE WASHDC 8499
8 R E T MONROVIA 0130
NODIS
EO 116521 XGOS
TAGS: PFOR, AO, LI
SUBJi PRESIDENT TOLBERT'S LETTER TO PRESIDENT FORD ON ANGOLA
REF: MONROVIA 0107
1. FOREIGN MINISTER DENNIS GAVE ME PHOTOCOPY OF LETTER TO
S
PRESIDENT FORD HANGED BY PRESIDENT TOLBERT TO SPECIAL AM5ASSADUR
SPAULDING, HEAD OF USDEL TO TOLBERT'S INAUGURATION.
FOLLOWING TEXT:
2. QUOTE: DEAR MR. PRESIDENT: I WAS PLEASED TO RECEIVE YOUR
TELEGRAPHIC MESSAGE INFORMING ME OF YOUR VIEWS ON THE UNFORTUNATE
AND DISTRESSING SITUATION IN ANGOLA AND ALSO TO LEARN FIRST HAND
C
N
OF THE ORJECTIVE OF YOUR GOVERNMENT'S POLICY IN THAT COUNTRY.
AS I HAVE ALWAYS ENDEAVOURED TO ADVOCATE THAT ON MATTERS OF
MUTUAL CONCERN WITH FAR-REACHING IMPLICATIONS FOR THE FUTURE
PEACE AND PROGRESS OF AFRICA AND THE WORLD, THE LINE OF COMMUNIC-
ATION BETWEEN INTERESTED WORLD LEADERS PARTICULARLY YOU AND ME
SHOULD 4E COMPLETELY OPEN, I WISH TO STATE MY OWN THINKING
ON THIS FRATRICIDAL CONFLICT.
MY GOVERNMENT IS CEEP, Y CONCERNED AND DISTURBED THAT AFTER
SOME 500 YEARS OF COLONIALISM, THE ANCOLAN PEOPLE, IN SPITE OF
THEIR REPENTLY WDN INDEPENDENCE AFTER A PROTRACTED PERIOD OF
STRUGGLE. ARE STILL DENIED THE BLESSINGS OF PEACE AND UNITY
S
AND THE POSSIBILITIES UF PROGRESS. WHILE TMIS SITUATION IS IN
PART A RESULT OF THE FAILURE OF THE THREE NATIONALIST MOVEMENTS
SECRET
FORD
DECLASSIFIED
&
E.O. 12958, Sec. 3.5
State Dept. Guidelines state Review 9/16/03
By 1da
GERAZO
LIBRARY
NARA, Date 3/6/04
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
OF STATE
Department of State
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
TELEGRAM
SECRET
PAGE 02 MONROV 00130 081654Z
TO UNITE AND CONSOLIDATE THEIR EFFORTS, IT HAS BEEN EXACERSATED
BY THE UNWARRANTED INTERFERENCE OF FORCES EXTERNAL TO THAT
COUNTRY. THIS FOREIGN INVOLVEMENT ON THE PART OF
MAJOR AND. OTHER POWERS CONSTITUTES A THREAT NOT ONLY TO ANGOLAN
INDEPENDENCE AND AFRICAN UNITY BUT ALSO TO INTERNATIONAL PEACE
AND SECURITY. IT WAS IN FULL REALIZATION OF THIS FACT THAT MY
GOVERNMENT HAS BEEN CALLING UPON ALL OF THE COUNTRIES PROVID-
ING MILITARY AND OTHER ASSISTANCE TO THE FACTIONS TO DESIST THERE*
FROM SINCE SUCH ASSISTANCE WOULD ONLY CONTRIBUTE FURTHER TO THE
PROLONGATION OF THE SUFFERING OF THE ANGOLAN PEOPLE.
FURTHERM-RE, THIS IS ONE OF THE PRINCIPAL REASONS WHY LIBERIA
HAS NOT RECOGNIZED ANY OF THE FACT-ONS WHICH CLAIM TO BE
REPRESENTING THE LEGITIMATE GOVERNMENT OF ANGOLA.
FOR WE REMAIN PERSUAGED THAT ONLY A GOVERNMENT OF A NATIONAL
RECONCILIATION, A GOVERNMENT WHICH EMBODIES ALL
OF THE ANGOLAN PEOPLE IN THEIR UNITY AND SINGLENESS OF PURPOSE
CAN BE THE LEGITIMATE GOVERNMENT OF ANOLA. TO THIS CONVICTION
WE REMAIN COMMITTED. AND THIS IS WHY WE HAVE BEEN HEARTENED
TO LEARN TWAT YOUR GOVERNMENT SHARES A SIMILAR VIEW ON THE
QUESTION OF RECOGNITION,
AS YOU HAVE NOTED, WE ATTACH GREAT IMPORTANCE TO THE FORTH-
COMING SUMMIT OF THE DAU WHICH WILL CONVENE NEXT WEEK IN ETHIOPIA
IN ORDER TO ENDEAVOUR TO EVOLVE A FORMULA THAT WILL END THE
CONFLICT AND BRING PEACE TO ANGOLA. ALTHOUGH I WILL NOT ATTEND
THE SUMMIT IN PERSON DUE TO URGENT MATTERS ASSOCIATED WITH MY
INAUGURATION AND THE FORMATION OF MY NEW GOVERNMENT, I WILL,
NONETHELESS, BE REPRESENTED BY A HIGH LEVEL DELEGATION HEADED
BY THE VICE PRESIDENT OF LIBERIA, THE HONDURABLE JAMES E.
GREENE.
BASICALLY, WE CONSIDER A JUST AND LASTING PEACE IN ANGOLA TO
BE BASED ON PROPOSALS THAT WILL LEAU TO A NEGOTIATED POLITICAL
SOLUTION. AND WE SHALL CLEARLY ADVOCATE THIS APPROACH AT THE
FORTHCOMING DAU MEETING: A SOLUTION WHICH WOULD SEEK TO ACHIEVE,
IN THE FIRST INSTANCE, AN IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE AND AN END TO ALL
HOSTILITIES BY ALL PARTIES CONCERNED IN THE CONFLICT: A
S
COMPLETE AND UNCONDITIONAL WITHDRAWAL OF ALL FOREIGN FORCES,
MILITARY AND PARA-MILITARY, INCLUDING THE MASSIVE SUPPLY OF ARMS"
THE COMING TOGEHER OF THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE THREE MOVEMENTS
BEGRET
FORD
LIBRARY
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
N
OF STATE
0
Department of State
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
TELEGRAM
SEC&ET
PAGE 03 MONDOV 00130 0816542
FO ANGOLA, AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A GOVERNMENT OF
S
NATIONAL UNITY. WE ARE HAPPY TO NOTE THAT THIS APPROACH APPEARS
TO RE IN CONSONANCE WITH YOUR OWN THINKING ON THIS GRAVE AND
SERIOUS MATTER.
WE AL80 COMMEND YOU IN YOUR EFFORTS THAT SEEK TO OBTAIN A
WITHORAWAL OF SOVIET AND ALL FOREIGN FORCES, INCLUDING THOSE OF
SOTH AFRICA, WHICH HAVE INTERVENED IN THE FRATRICIOAL CONFLICT
N
IN ANGOLA. WE WISH FOR YOU SUCCESS IN THESE INITIATIVES.
I FULLY WELCOME THIS OPPORTUNITY FOR THE EXCHANGE OF VIEW WITH
YOU ON THIS URGENT MATTER AS I ENTERTAIN THE HOPE THAT BEFORE
LONG A JUST AND ENDURING SOLUTION TO THIS VEXING PROBLEM
CAN BE FORTHCOMING.
IT IS MY FERVENT HOPE THAT IN THE NEW YEAR AT HAND, THE
ENLIVENING JOYS OF THE PAST YULETIDE WILL GENERATE AN INSATIABLE
AWARENESS OF THE URGENT NEED FOR CLOSER HUMAN CONTACT so THAT
EARNEST COMMUNICATION CAN ENSUE, AND THESE JOYS WILL ENGENDER
FOR MANKINO EVERYWHERE GENUINE UNDERSTANDING AND APPRECIATION
S
FOR OUR ONE WORLD'S PROBLEMS IN THE INTEREST OF LASTING PEACE
AND PROGRESS HERE ON EARTH.
WITH SENTIMENTS OF HIGHEST ESTEEM AND BEST WISHES FOR YOUR
PERSONAL WELL-BEING AND FOR THE GOVERNMENT AND PEOPLE OF THE
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. SINCERELY, W.R. TOLBERT, JR.
END QUOTE.
N
BEAN
FORD
SECRET
&
GERALD
LIBRARY
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
3
102
SECRET
COPY,
OP IMMED
SUP260R
019609 ESA932 TREAT AS ORIGINAL
DE RUTAMA #142368 0571515
0 2615@5Z FEB 76
FM AMEMBASSY MONROVIA
TO SECSTATE WASHDC IMMEDIATE 9163
SECRET MONROVIA 1423
EXDIS
E.O. 116521 XGDS=1
TAGS: PFOR, AO, LI, US
SUBJECT: SOVIET-CUBAN PRESENCE IN ANGOLA
REF: MONROVIA 1293
1. THERE FOLLOWS THE TEXT OF A LETTER FROM PRESIDENT TOLBERT TO
PRESIDENT FORD WHICH WAS HANDED TO ME BY PRESIDENT TOLBERT THIS
MORNING IN A MEETING CALLED AT HIS REQUEST. IT IS THE TEXT OF THE
LETTER REFERRED TO IN PARA 6 OF REFTEL. MY COMMENTS FOLLOW SEPTEL.
ORIGINAL TEXT OF LETTER WILL BE POUCHED TO DEPARTMENT.
2. QTE: MR. PRESIDENT: THANK YOU FOR THE KIND SENTIMENTS EXPRESSED
IN YOUR MESSAGE OF EARLY FEBRUARY, REGARDING THE LIBERIAN GOVERN-
MENT'S VIEWS ON THE UNFORTUNATE ANGOLAN SITUATION. I WELCOME ANOTHER
OPPORTUNITY TO CONTINUE TO SHARE WITH YOU MY VIEWS ON THIS PROBLEM,
AND EXPRESS THE HOPE THAT OUR TWO COUNTRIES, INDEED ALL PEACE-
LOVING NATIONS, WILL CONTINUE TO DO THE UTMOST IN ENDEAVOURING
TO ENSURE THAT THE BLESSINGS OF
PEACE, SELFODETERMINATION AND PROSPERITY WILL BE ENJOYED NOT ONLY
BY ALL AFRICANS, BUT BY MANKIND EVERYWHERE.
LIBERIA'S POSITION HAS LONG REMAINED CONSISTENT WITH THAT OF THE
ORGANIZATION OF AFRICAN UNITY: THAT A JUST AND LASTING SOLUTION
TO THE ANGOLAN TRAGEDY LIES IN THE IMMEDIATE CESSATION OF HOSTILI-
TIES AND THE INITIATION OF CONSULTATIONS AMONG AUTHENTIC REPRESENTA-
TIVES OF THE PEOPLE LEADING TO THE FORMATION OF A GOVERNMENT OF
NATIONAL UNITY. AND I HAVE THEREFORE PERSONALLY SEIZED EVERY OPPOR-
TUNITY TO URGE THE LEADERS OF THE THREE CONTENDING FACTIONS TO CLOSE
RANKS, FORM A UNITED FRONT, AND NOT ALLOW EXTERNAL DETRACTORS TO
DETER THEM FROM THIS COURSE.
AS YOU ALREADY KNOW, IN LATE JANUARY I WAS THE GUEST OF PRESI-
DENT IDI AMIN DADA OF THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA WHERE I PARTICIPATED IN
THE FIFTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS OF HIS COMING TO POWER, THE OCCA-
*WHSR COMMENT
SCOWCROFT, HYLAND, LL
RECALLED
PSN#009918
PAGE 01
TOR:058/00:29Z DTG:261505Z FEB 76
FORD
SECRET
*******S COPY
s
GERALD
LIBHARY
DECLASSIFIED
B.O. 12958, Sec. 3.5
State
Guidelines state Deview 9/16/03
By
labi
Dept. 9 NARA, Date 3/6/04
E
COPY
SION WHICH WAS ALSO GRACED BY THE PRESENCE OF PRESIDENT MOBUTU SESE
SEKO OF THE REPUBLIC OF ZAIRE AND PRESIDENT JEAN BEDEL BOKASSA OF
THE CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC AFFORDED A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY BOTH TO
REAFFIRM OUR COMMON COMMITMENT TO THE OBJECTIVE OF UPHOLDING ANGOLAN
INDEPENDENCE AND TO DISCUSS THE IMMINENT THREAT TO AFRICAN
SOLIDARITY AND SECURITY.
AS I INDICATED IN MY MORE RECENT LETTER, WITH WHICH I FORWARDED
FOR YOUR INFORMATION, COPY OF A STATEMENT ON ANGOLA MADE BY THE
LIBERIAN GOVERNMENT ON THE 13TH INSTANT, NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN THE
ANGOLAN SITUATION HAVE ONLY BUTTRESSED THE CONSITENCY OF LIBERIA'S
VIEWS WITH THOSE OF THE ORGANIZATION OF AFRICAN UNITY, DIRECTED
CONTINUINGLY TOWARDS PEACE, RECONCILIATION AND THE CONSOLIDATION OF
ANGOLAN INDEPENDENCE. THIS IS WHY, FOLLOWING MAJORITY DECISION OF
THE DAU TO RECOGNIZE THE GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF
ANGOLA AND TO ADMIT IT TO FULL MEMBERSHIP, LIBERIA DECIDED TO
EXTEND RECOGNITION TO THAT GOVERNMENT. AND SHE
DID 80 WITH THE FERVENT HOPE AND TRUST THAT THAT ACT WOULD ASSIST
IN OCCASIONING AN EARLY TERMINATION OF HOSTILITIES, IN BRINGING
GENUINE CONCILIATION, AND IN SECURING AN
ENDURING AND JUST SOLUTION TO THE DISTRESSFUL CONFLICT.
WHILE WE SHALL NOT FAIL TO URGE THE GOVERNMENT OF THE
PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF ANGOLA TO BE AS MAGNANIMOUS IN VICTORY AS SHE
WAS DECISIVE IN THE STRUGGLE, WE BELIEVE THAT THE POST-ANGOLAN ERA
OF SOUTHERN AFRICAN OFFERS SUCH CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES AS MAY
REQUIRE THE URGENT AND VIGOROUS DIPLOMATIC INITIATIVES OF COUNTRIES
SUCH AS YOUR OWN, SINCE A PEACEFUL CHANGE AND A STABLE WORLD
ORDER ARE IMPORTANT OBJECTIVES WHICH I AM CERTAIN WE SHARE IN COMMON.
IT CAN ONLY BE CONSIDERED REALISTIC FOR ONE TO PERCEIVE THAT
WITH THE LEGALIZATION AND LEGITIMIZATION OF THE GOVERNMENT OF THE
PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF ANGOLA, BY THE ACTS OF RECOGNITION BY THE DAU
MEMBERSHIP, THE CUBAN FORCES AND THE SOVIET INTERVENTION WHICH WERE
DECISIVE FACTORS IN THIS MPLA VICTORY ARE NOT LIKELY TO BE WITH
DRAWN FROM ANGOLA IMMEDIATELY. IT WOULD ONLY BE REASONABLE FOR us
TO RECOGNIZE THAT THEY WILL REMAIN TO HELP CONSOLIDATE THE MPLA IN
POWER. MORE THAN THAT, IT IS REASONABLE TO BELIEVE THAT THE CUBANS
AND RUSSIANS COULD CHOOSE TO REMAIN IN SOUTHERN AFRICAN AND ACTIVELY
AID THE ON-GOING STRUGGLE TO LIBERATE NAMIBIA, ZIMBABWE, AND PERHAPS
EVEN APARTHEID SOUTH AFRICA. AND THEY MAY NO DOUBT BE ENCOURAGED
BY A UNITED APRICA WHICH IS NOW DETERMINED AND WHOLLY COMMITTED TO
LIBERATE ITS CONTINENTAL HOMELAND.
AS SUCH, A NEW FEVER OF INCANDESCENCE MAY RISE HIGH IN THE
AFRICAN THEATER.
I NEED NOT MENTION THE CLEAR THREAT SUCH A LIKELY PROSPECT
HOLDS NOT ONLY FOR AFRICAN PEACE AND PROGRESS BUT ALSO FOR INTER-
NATIONAL PEACE AND SECURITY. FOR AFRICA WOULD THEN FIND HERSELF,
WITH THE SUBSTANTIAL SUPPORT FROM CUBA AND THE SOVIET UNION AND
OTHER SOCIALIST COUNTRIES, IN A HEAD-ON COLLISION WITH THE REMNANTS
OF COLONIALISM IN THE SUB-REGION, ESPECIALLY THE APARTHEID REGIME
OF SOUTH AFRICA.
RECALLED
PSN#009918
PAGE 02
TOR:058/00:29Z
DTG#261505Z FEB 76
FORD
COPY
GERALD
SEGRET
*******5 COPY
I WOULD WANT YOU TO UNDERSTAND THAT THESE THOUGHTS ARE COMING
FROM ONE WHO PREFERS TO FACE REALITIES CONSCIENTIOUSLY AND WITH CON-
SISTENCY. AS I AM COMMITTED AND UNDER OBLIGATION TO DO EVERYTHING
WITHIN MY POWER TO ASSIST IN BRINGING PEACE AND SECURITY TO OUR
ONE WORLD, MANKIND BEING MY CHALLENGE, I DO NOT HESITATE TO COMMUNI-
CATE MY CONCERN TO THOSE WHO ARE POSSESSED WITH GOOD-WILL AND WHO IN
SOME MANNER HAVE THE POWER TO INFLUENCE THE COURSE OF INTERNATIONAL
EVENTS.
IN VIEW OF THE FACT THAT THE CHANNELS OF COMMUNICATION BETWEEN
YOUR GOVERNMENT AND THAT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA HAVE FOR-
TUNATELY REMAINED OPEN, I WISH TO SUGGEST, MR. PRESIDENT, THAT THE
CRITICAL SCENARIO WHICH I HAVE ATTEMPTED TO DESCRIBE HEREIN COULD BE
SEEN AS UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY FOR COUNTRIES SUCH AS YOUR OWN TO
URGENTLY UNDERTAKE DIPLOMATIC MEASURES DESIGNED TO PERSUADE SOUTH
AFRICA TO GRANT IMMEDIATE INDEPENCENCE TO NAMIBIA, AND PERSUASIVELY
URGE MR. SMITH TO MAKE POSSIBLE MAJORITY RULE IN ZIMBABWE WITHOUT
FURTHER DELAY,
SUCH TIMELY POSITIVE ACTIONS BY MR. VORSTER OF SOUTH AFRICA AND
MR. SMITH OF ZIMBABWE WOULD CONSIDERABLY STRENGTHEN THE HANDS OF
THOSE AFRICAN LEADERS WHO SHARE VIEWS SIMILAR TO MINE AND AID IN
BRINGING SUCCESS TO APPROPRIATE INITIATIVES DESIGNED TO RESOLVE
THE CRISIS IN SOUTHERN AFRICA WITHOUT CONTINUING BLOODSHED. THEY
WOULD PURTHER, IN MY OPINION, CONTRIBUTE IMMEASURABLY TO PEACEFUL
CHANGE ON THE AFRICAN CONTINENT, AND COULD SURELY REMOVE THE SERIOUS
THREAT WHICH PROSPECTIVE CONDITIONS IN SOUTHERN AFRICA POSE TO
WORLD PEACE AND SECURITY.
WITH SENTIMENTS OF HIGHEST ESTEEM AND CONSIDERATION,
SINCERELY, W.R. TOLBERT, JR. UNQTE.
BEAN
BT
RECALLED
PSN#009918
PAGE 03
OF 03
TOR:058/00:29Z
DTG:251505Z FEB FORD 76
SECRET
COPY
o
GERALD
LIBRARY
President dedmot
4a
MEMORANDUM
see.
THE WHITE HOUSE
1598
WASHINGTON
CONFIDENTIAL (GDS)
ACTION
April 10, 1976
OBE
lab 3/6/04
MEMORANDUM FOR: THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
Brent Scowcroft
B
SUBJECT:
Suggested Reply to a Letter from
William R. Tolbert, Jr., President
of Liberia
Recently President Tolbert wrote to you concerning Liberia's
recognition of the Government of the People's Republic of Angola
(MPLA) and urging you to use your good offices to attempt to avert
potential violence in southern Africa (Tab B).
I recommend that you acknowledge President Tolbert's letter and
have attached a suggested text (Tab A). In addition to thanking
President Tolbert for his views, in your reply you assure him that
the United States desires a negotiated settlement to the problems
confronting southern Africa, that you strongly support majority rule
in Rhodesia, independence for Namibia and an end to apartheid in
South Africa. You express your hope that these goals can be
achieved by the process of peaceful change and that the United
States will do what it can to encourage that process. You also
express your concern over the threat posed to Africa by the Soviet
and Cuban intervention there and your feeling that the problems of
southern Africa should be resolved by the Africansthemselves.
Doug Smith of Robert Hartmann's office has cleared the text of the
proposed reply.
RECOMMENDATION:
That you sign the letter to President Tolbert at Tab A.
FORD LIBRARY & OERALD
46
Tab1 Fud 4-10
MH
1030
MEMORANDUM
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
1598
with
1653
CONFIDENTIAL (GDS)
ACTION
March 31, 1976
Calor 3/6/04
MEMORANDUM FOR:
BRENT SCOWCROFT
FROM:
Hal Horan HD
SUBJECT:
Presidential Correspondence: Suggested Reply
to a Letter from William R. Tolbert, Jr.,
President of Liberia.
President Tolbert wrote the President on February 26 giving the
reasons for Liberia's recognition of the Government of People's
Republic of Angola (MPLA), and expressing his concern over the
problems confronting southern Africa.
I recommend that the President acknowledge this correspondence
and have attached a draft reply. Doug Smith of Robert Hartmann's
office has cleared the text of the proposed letter (Tab A).
RECOMMENDATION:
That you forward to the President the memorandum at Tab I.
FORD
a
GERALD
LIBRARY
THE EXECUTIVE MANSION
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
MONROVIA, LIBERIA
February 26, 1976
Mr. President:
Thank you for the kind sentiments expressed in your
message of early February, regarding the Liberian Govern-
ment's views on the unfortunate Angolan situation. I
welcome another opportunity to continue to share with you
my views on this problem, and express the hope that our
two countries, indeed all peace-loving nations, will continue
to do the utmost in endeavouring to ensure that the blessings
of peace, self-determination and prosperity will be enjoyed
not only by all Africans, but by mankind everywhere.
Liberia's position has long remained consistent with
that of the Organization of African Unity: That a just and
lasting solution to the Angolan tragedy lies in the immediate
cessation of hostilities and the initiation of consultations
among authentic representatives of the people leading to the
formation of a Government of National Unity. And I have
therefore personally seized every opportunity to urge the
leaders of the three contending factions to close ranks, form
a united front, and not allow external detractors to deter
them from this course.
As you already know, in late January I was the guest of
President Idi Amin Dada of the Republic of Uganda where I
participated in the Fifth Anniversary Celebrations of his
His Excellency Gerald R. Ford
President of the United States of America
FORD
The White House, Washington D.C.,
&
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
GERALD
DECLASSIFIED
B.O. 12958, Sec. 3.5
State Dept.
Guidelines stateleview 9/16/03
By
Wa
, NARA, Date 3/6/04
THE EXECUTIVE MANSION
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
MONROVIA, LIBERIA
- 2 -
coming to power. The occasion which was also graced
by the presence of President Mobutu Sese Seko of the
Republic of Zaire and President Jean Bedel Bokassa of
the Central African Republic afforded a unique oppor-
tunity both to reaffirm our common commitment to the
objective of upholding Angolan independence and to
discuss the imminent threat to African solidarity and
security.
As I indicated in my more recent letter, with which
I forwarded for your information copy of a statement on
Angola made by the Liberian Government on the 13th instant,
new development in the Angolan situation have only
buttressed the consistency of Liberia's views with those of
the Organization of African Unity, directed continuingly
towards peace, reconciliation and the consolidation of
Angolan independence. This is why, following majority
decision of the OAU to recognize the Government of the
People's Republic of Angola and to admit it to full member-
ship, Liberia decided to extend recognition to that Govern-
ment. And she did so with the fervent hope and trust that
that act would assist in occasioning an early termination
of hostilities, in bringing genuine conciliation, and in
securing an enduring and just solution to the distressful
conflict.
FORD LIBRARY &
THE EXECUTIVE MANSION
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
MONROVIA, LIBERIA
- 3 -
While we shall not fail to urge the Government of the
People's Republic of Angola to be as magnanimous in victory
as she was decisive in the struggle, we believe that the
post-Angola era of Southern Africa offers such challenges
and opportunities as may require the urgent and vigorous
diplomatic initiatives of countries such as your own, since
a peaceful change and a stable world order are important
objectives which I am certain we share in common.
It can only be considered realistic for one to perceive
that with the legalization and legitimization of the Govern-
ment of the People's Republic of Angola, by the acts of
recognition by the OAU Membership, the Cuban forces and the
Soviet intervention which were decisive factors in this
MPLA victory are not likely to be withdrawn from Angola
immediately. It would only be reasonable for us to recognize
that they will remain to help consolidate the MPLA in power.
More than that, it is reasonable to believe that the Cubans
and Russians could choose to remain in Southern Africa and
actively aid the on-going struggle to liberate Namibia,
Zimbabwe, and perhaps even apartheid South Africa. And they
may no doubt be encouraged by a united Africa which is now
determined and wholly committed to liberate its continental
homeland.
POFD
THE EXECUTIVE MANSION
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
MONROVIA, LIBERIA
- 4 -
As such, a new fever of incandescence may rise high
in the African theater.
I need not mention the clear threat such a likely
prospect holds not only for African peace and progress
but also for international peace and security. For Africa
would then find herself, with the substantial support from
Cuba and the Soviet Union and other Socialist countries, in
a head-on collision with the remnants of colonialism in the
sub-region, especially the apartheid regime of South Africa.
I would want you to understand that these thoughts
are coming from one who prefers to face realities conscien-
tiously and with consistency. As I am committed and under
obligation to do everything within my power to assist in
bringing peace and security to our one world, mankind being
my challenge, I do not hesitate to communicate my concern to
those who are possessed with good-will and who in some
manner have the power to influence the course of international
events.
In view of the fact that the channels of communication
between your Government and that of the Republic of South
Africa have fortunately remained open, I wish to suggest,
Mr. President, that the critical scenario which I have
attempted to describe herein could be seen as unique opportu-
nity for countries such as your own to urgently undertake
and & FORD
THE EXECUTIVE MANSION
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
MONROVIA, LIBERIA
- 5 -
diplomatic measures designed to persuade South Africa to
grant immediate independence to Namibia, and persuasively
urge Mr. Smith to make possible majority rule in Zimbabwe
without further delay.
Such timely positive actions by Mr. Vorster of South
Africa and Mr. Smith of Zimbabwe would considerably
strengthen the hands of those African leaders who share
views similar to mine and aid in bringing success to appro-
priate initiatives designed to resolve the crisis in
Southern Africa without continuing bloodshed. They would
further, in my opinion, contribute immeasurably to peaceful
change on the African continent, and could surely remove
the serious threat which prospective conditions in Southern
Africa pose to world peace and security.
With sentiments of highest esteem and consideration,
Sincerely,
K.
Tolbert, Jr.
FORD
&
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Mr. Smith:
I am returning the original copy you sent
me on the Presidential reply to Liberia's
President Tolbert.
Attached is a copy of the remarks with my
editing.
MJ
3/25/76
-
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
3/23/76
TO:
Doug Smith
Mr. Hartmann's Office
FROM:
Hal Horan, A Rm 301, OEOB x5022
SUBJECT: Presidential Reply to Liberia's
President Tolbert
For your clearance.
DRAFT
3/23/76
Dear Mr. President:
I am most grateful to you for the frank expression of your views
on the issues of majority rule and racial justice in southern Africa
expressed in your letter of February 26 and in your comments to
our Charge in Monrovia.
and Libenia
The United States share with-Libe 1 the same goals in southern
Africa. We strongly support majority rule in Rhodesia, independence
for Namibia, and an end to apartheid in South Africa. We remain
hopeful that these goals can be achieved by the process of peaceful
change, and we will continue to do what we can to encourage that
process. Our determination to be helpful is reflected in recent
public statements that both I and Secretary Kissinger have made
us
concerning our su pport for majority rule and minority rights in
minority
southern Africa. We will giveno encouragement to Mugal regimes
and
e will continue to express the view that rapid change is
required and that the opportunity for negotiated solutions must be seized.
At the same time, we remain deeply concerned over the threat
posed to Africa and to the world by the large number of Cuban troops
supported by Soviet arms and advisers in Angola. We believe the
problems of Angola and of southern Africa should be settled by the
Africans themselves, and we have made known our willingness to
accept whatever agreements the Africans reach. We have nothing
-2-
against the MPLA per se in Angola and ) in fact we quickly moved to
establish relations with another government of similar ideology -- the
People's Republic of Mozambique -- after it achieved independence. lest
Events
From the experience of Angola we are concerned that the Soviets
and Cubans may be misled to believe they have the right to impose their
An Africa or elsewhere in the world. It is our common
interest to demonstrate clearly that we will not allow them to decide
who will govern independent and sovereign countries.
I hope that we shall continue to keep in close touch on these
matters of mutual concern so that I may have the benefit of your
insight and advice.
Sincerely,
His Excellency
William R. Tolbert
President of Liberia
ok Smith
Monrovia
ok 03/26/76 aminded
3/29/2:80
FORD
MJ
4g
DRIFT
3/3/76
Dear Mr. President:
notel Rs
I am most grateful to you for the frank expression of your views
on the issues of majority rule and racial justice in southern Africa
expressed in your letter of February 26 and in your comments to
our Charge in Monrovia.
and Liberia
The United States share with Liberia the same goals in southern
Africa. We strongly support majority rule in Rhodesia, independence
for Namibia, and an end to apartheid in South Africa We remain
hopeful that these goals can be achieved by the process of peace
toward that end?
change, and we will continue to do what we can encourage that
desire
precess. Our determination to be helpful is reflected in recent
public statements that both I and Secretary Kissinger have made
us
concerning our su pport for majority rule and minority rights in
offer
minity
southern Africa. We will STATE no encouragement to mingal regimes
we will continue to express the view that rapid change is
required and that the opportunity for negotiated solutions must be seized.
At the same time, we remain deeply concerned over the threat
posed to Africa and to the world by the large number of Cuban troops
supported by Soviet arms and advisers in Angola. We believe the
problems of Angola and of southern Africa should be settled by the
Africans themselves, and we have made known our willingness to
accept whatever agreements the Africans reach. We have nothing
-2-
against the MPLA per se in Angola and in fact. we quickly moved to
establish relations with another government of similar ideology -- the
People's Republic of Mozambique -- after it achieved independence.
From the experience of Angola we are concerned that the Soviets
and Cubans may be misled to believe they have the right to impose their
governments in Africa or elsewhere in the world. It is our common
interest to demonstrate clearly that we will not allow them to decide
who will govern independent and sovereign countries.
I hope that we shall continue to keep in close touch on these
matters of mutual concern so that I may have the benefit of your
insight and advice.
Sincerely,
His Excellency
William R. Tolbert
President of Liberia
Monrovia
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
3/23/76
TO:
Doug Smith
Mr. Hartmann's Office
FROM:
Hal Horan, A Rm 301, OEOB x5022
SUBJECT: Presidential Reply to Liberia's -
President Tolbert
For your clearance.
DRAFT
3/23/76
Dear Mr. President:
I am most grateful to you for the frank expression of your views
on the issues of majority rule and racial justice in southern Africa
expressed in your letter of February 26 and in your comments to
our Charge in Monrovia.
The United States shares with Liberia the same goals in southern
Africa. We strongly support majority rule in Rhodesia, independence
for Namibia, and an end to apartheid in South Africa. We remain
hopeful that these goals can be achieved by the process of peaceful
change, and we will continue to do what we can to encourage that
process. Our determination to be helpful is reflected in recent
public statements that both I and Secretary Kissinger have made
us
concerning our su pport for majority rule and minority rights in
memority
southern Africa. We will giveno encouragement to illugal regimes,
and we will continue to express the view that rapid change is
required and that the opportunity for negotiated solutions must be seized.
At the same time, we remain deeply concerned over the threat
posed to Africa and to the world by the large numbers of Cuban troops
supported by Soviet arms and advisers in Angola. We believe the
problems of Angola and of southern Africa should be settled by the
Africans themselves, and we have made known our willingness to
GENALD ? FORD
accept whatever agreements the Africans reach. We have nothing
-2-
against the MPLA per se in Angola and in fact we quickly moved to
establish relations with another government of similar ideology -- the
People's Republic of Mozambique -- after it achieved independence.
From the experience of Angola we are concerned that the Soviets
and Cubans may be misled to believe they have the right to impose
governments in Africa or elsewhere in the world. It is our common
interest to demonstrate clearly that we will not allow them to decide
who will govern independent and sovereign countries.
I hope that we shall continue to keep in close touch on these
matters of mutual concern so that I may have the benefit of your
insight and advice.
Sincerely,
His Excellency
William R. Tolbert
President of Liberia
Monrovia
S/S 7605663
1653
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Washington, D.C. 20520
March 18, 1976
CONFIDENTIAL
MEMORANDUM FOR MR. BRENT SCOWCROFT
THE WHITE HOUSE
Subject: Suggested Presidential Response to
President Tolbert of Liberia
The attached letter is a suggested Presidential
response to President Tolbert's February 26 letter to
President Ford (also attached) in which Tolbert discussed
Liberia's recognition of the MPLA, and urged President Ford
to use his good office to attempt to avert potential vio-
lence in southern Africa.
In addition to thanking Tolbert for his views, President
Ford's letter assures him that the United States still
desires a negotiated settlement to the problems confronting
southern Africa and will consider peaceful means of increas-
ing pressure on Rhodesia and South Africa in order to bring
this settlement about.
for
George e. Arthur S. Springsteen Boxy
Executive Secretary
Attachments:
As stated
CONFIDENTIAL
GDS
th 3/6/04
4h
SUGGESTED LETTER
Dear Mr. President:
I am most grateful to you for the frank expression of
your views in your letter of February 26th and in your
comments and those of your Foreign Minister to our Charge in
Monrovia. Coming at a time when the burning issues of
majority rule and racial justice in southern Africa have
become a focus of worldwide attention, your views have been
of particular value to me.
As I am sure you are aware, I fully share your appre-
hension over the increasing prospects for a violent solution
to these problems N Let me also reassure you that the United
States continues to support majority rule in Rhodesia,
independence in Namibia and an end to apartheid in South
Africa.
As for Namibia, we supported the United Nations Security
Council resolution withdrawing South Africa's mandate in
that territory, and we accepted the advisory opinion of the
International Court of Justice upholding the Security
Council decision. We view South Africa's occupation as
illegal and have urged them to withdraw and permit the
exercise of self-determination under UN auspices by the
people of Namibia.
FORD
His Excellency,
a
William R. Tolbert, Jr.,
GERALD
LIBRARY
President of the Republic of Liberia,
Monrovia.
Department of State
independence In Namibia and an end
to apartheid I South aprica
We shough support magority rule in
I think, therefore, that the United States and Liberia
shares
continue to seek the same goals in southern Africa:
We
with
continue to believe that these goals should be achieved by
peaceful negotiations and non-violent change rather than
violent confrontation.
We also remain deeply concerned, as we were in Angola,
over the threat posed to Africa and to the world by the
presence of large numbers of Cuban troops supported by
Soviet arms and advisors in Africa. We believe the
problems of southern Africa should be settled by the Africans
themselves and we have made known our willingness to accept
whatever agreements the Africans reach. We have nothing
against the MPLA per se in Angola and in fact we quickly
moved to establish relations with another government of
similar ideology - The Peoples Republic of Mozambique - soon
after it achieved independence.
The
for we stimming from the angolan situation
concern
(over Soviet and Cuban involvement of the
type witnessed in Angola is that they should not be
the Soviets and Cubans may
be misled
aged to believe they have the right to impose governments in
Africa or elsewhere in the world. It is in our common
interest to demonstrate clearly that we will not allow themso
to decide who will govern independent and sovereign coun-
tries.
we
for our part, are prepared to consider ways that we
>
might give suitable support to the achievement of the goals
we share for majority rule in Rhodesia, UN supervised
Southern aprea
- 3 -
independence in Namibia, and an end to apartheid in South
Africa.
I wish to assure you that I view the present situation
with deep concern. In Rhodesia, which is the area of
greatest current interest, the white minority regime perhaps
faces its last opportunity to negotiate the transition to
majority rule. TI I hope that we shall continue to keep in
close touch as the situation develops so that I may have the
benefit of your insights and your advice.
Sincerely,
Gerald R. Ford
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Dear Mr. President:
I am most grateful to you for the frank expression of
your views on the issues of majority rule and racial
justice in southern Africa expressed in your letter of
February 26 and in your comments to our Charge in
Monrovia.
The United States and Liberia share many of the same
goals in southern Africa. We strongly support majority
rule in Rhodesia, independence for Namibia, and an
end to apartheid in South Africa. We remain hopeful
that these goals can be achieved by the process of
peaceful change, and we will continue to do what we
can to encourage that process. Our determination to
be helpful is reflected in recent public statements that
both I and Secretary Kissinger have made concerning
United States support for majority rule in southern
Africa. We will give no encouragement to minority
regimes. We will continue to express the view that
rapid change is required and that the opportunity for
negotiated solutions must be seized.
At the same time, we remain deeply concerned over
the threat posed to Africa and to the world by the
large number of Cuban troops, supported by Soviet
arms and advisers, in Angola. We believe the problems
of Angola and of southern Africa should be settled by
the Africans themselves, and we have made known our
willingness to accept whatever agreements the Africans
reach. We have nothing against the MPLA per se in
Angola and, in fact, we quickly moved to establish
-2-
relations with another government of similar ideology --
the People's Republic of Mozambique -- after it achieved
independence.
Events in Angola give us concern lest the Soviets and
Cubans be misled to believe they can, with impunity,
impose their will in Africa or elsewhere. It is our
common interest to demonstrate clearly that we will
not allow them to decide who will govern independent
and sovereign countries.
I hope that we shall continue to keep in close touch
on these matters of mutual concern so that I may have
the benefit of your insight and advice.
Sincerely,
His Excellency
William R. Tolbert, Jr.
President of Liberia
Monrovia
DOC
RECD
LOG NUMBER
4m
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INITIAL ACTION o
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3
18
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7601653
FROM: SECSTATE
7605663
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FOR:
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ANY ACTION NECESSARY?
NSC PLANNING
CONCURRENCE
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DUE DATE: 3/22
SCIENTIFIC
COMMENTS: INCLUDING SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
SUB-SAH/ AFRICA/ UN
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NSC 76-21
U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE - 599-022 - 1976
599-022
7607815
50
1714
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Washington, D.C. 20520
April 21, 1976
CONFIDENTIAL
MEMORANDUM FOR MR. BRENT SCOWCROFT
THE WHITE HOUSE
Subject: State Visit Invitation from President
Gerald R. Ford to President William R. Tolbert, Jr.
of Liberia (Ref NSC-1714, April 13, 1976)
The President has approved an invitation for
President William R. Tolbert, Jr., of Liberia to make
a State Visit to the United States at a mutually con-
venient time during the latter half of 1976. Attached
is a suggested personal invitation from President Ford
to President Tolbert.
Secretary Kissinger departs April 23 on a tour of
Africa which includes a visit to Liberia on April 30.
He would like to deliver the invitation personally
to President Tolbert.
C.Arth Bay
b
George S. Springsteen
Executive Secretary
Attachment:
Suggested letter from President Ford to
President Tolbert
CONFIDENTIAL
FORD
&
GDS
ha 3/6/04
GERALD
LIBRARY
Sf
SUGGESTED LETTER
Dear Mr. President:
The celebration of the United States' bicentennial
anniversary is an occasion to give particular attention
to the relationships which have special historic importance
for the American people. Over 20 million Americans trace
their origin to the African continent, and our relations
with Liberia date back over 150 years. I have, therefore,
asked Secretary Kissinger to convey to you my invitation
to participate in our bicentennial celebrations by making
a state visit to this country at a mutually convenient
date during the latter half of the year.
I hope you will be able to accept this invitation,
for I believe your visit would permit us to demonstrate
the importance Americans attach to Africa as well as
the special place Liberia occupies in our affections.
It also would allow you and me to discuss personally
those issues affecting Africa and the United States
which have been the subject of our correspondence since
your last visit to Washington. I look forward to seeing
you once again.
Sincerely,
Gerald R. Ford
FORD
?
His Excellency
William R. Tolbert, Jr.,
President of the Republic of Liberia,
GERALD
LIBRARY
Monrovia.
Department of State
Sc
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20506
VIA LDX
NSC - 1714
CONFIDENTIALGDS
April 13, 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR:
Mr. George S. Springsteen
Executive Secretary
Department of State
SUBJECT:
State Visit for Liberian President Tolbert
(S/S 7605235)
The President has approved an invitation for President Tolbert
to make a State Visit at a mutually convenient time to be
determined. The Secretary may wish to convey the President's
invitation to Tolbert during his forthcoming visit to Liberia. It
will not be possible to provide a specific time frame for the visit
because of the growing travel and schedule commitments for the
President during the second half of the year. (For your planning,
we would not expect that the visit could take place in August, but
more likely to be considered in September or October, and would
include an arrival ceremony, office meeting and dinner.) It should
be understood that the invitation should not commit the President
to a specific period other than at a mutually convenient time during
the second half of the year.
Jeanne Davis
Staff mm Secretary
CONFIDENTIAL GDS
Wa 3/6/04
5d
THE WHITE HOUSE SITUATION ROOM
TIME SENT:
RECEIVED:
'76 APR 13 PM 5:13 :
DEPARTM WI OF STATE
Will
LOX NR: 434
PAGES: SI UATION ROOM
DIA/G
DESCRIPTION/COMMENT
CIA
STATE
DIA/H
NMCC
TREAS
ANMCC
NPIC
NSA
ERDA
FROM: JEANNE DAUIS
TO: GEORGE SPRINGSTEEN
EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
STATE DEPT.
NSC/S
FORD LIBRARY & GERALD
5e
1714
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
CONFIDENTIAL (GDS)
SCHEDULE PROPOSAL
DATE: March 31, 1976
FROM: Brent Scowcroft water
VIA: William Nicholson
MEETING:
State visit by William R. Tolbert, Jr. ,
President of Liberia
DATE:
At a mutually convenient time in August or
September 1976
PURPOSE:
To receive in the United States, during our
bicentennial year, the President of an African
nation with which we have special and long-
enduring ties.
FORMAT:
- Arrival ceremony, Oval Office meeting
and black tie dinner
- Oval Office participants - President Tolbert,
Secretary Kissinger, Brent Scowcroft and
appropriate Liberian officials
- Expected length of Oval Office meeting -
60 minutes
CABINET
PARTICIPATION:
Secretary Kissinger
SPEECH
Arrival ceremony remarks, talking points, and
MATERIAL:
toast to be provided.
PRESS
COVERAGE:
Full press coverage. Meeting to be announced.
STAFF:
Brent Scowcroft
RECOMMEND:
Brent Scowcroft
OPPOSED:
None
BRARI
CONFIDENTIAL (GDS)
Cola 3/6/04
CONFIDENTIAL (GDS)
-2-
PREVIOUS
President Tolbert paid you an office call on
PARTICIPATION:
November 5, 1974.
BACKGROUND:
President Tolbert is the only African Head of
State to be proposed for a state visit during
the bicentennial year. He is recommended
because of the unique historic relationship
between our two countries as well as for his
personal qualities as a moderate African leader.
Because our special relationship with Liberia
is widely recognized, this invitation would not
need to be balanced or offset by invitations to
other African heads of state. President Tolbert
is a frequent visitor to the United States but is
most anxious that his next visit here be a state
visit.
I believe it is important for our overall rela-
tions with Africa that this invitation be extended.
It would be welcomed by the Africans, as well
as by important segments of the American public
and Congress, as a sign of United States interest
in Africa. The visit would also be beneficial
to the maintenance of our close ties with Liberia
where we have important political, economic and
strategic interests.
APPROVE
DISAPPROVE
FUND
&
CONFIDENTIAL (GDS)
GERALD
LIBHARY
sf
MH
MEMORANDUM
1714
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
CONFIDENTIAL (GDS)
ACTION
3/6/04
March 24, 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR:
BRENT SCOWCROFT
FROM:
Hal Horan Hh
SUBJECT:
Request for State Visit for William R.
Tolbert, Jr., President of Liberia
Subsequent to discussions I have had over the past couple of months
with the African Bureau, the Department of State is now recommending
that President Tolbert of Liberia be invited to pay a state visit to
the United States during the bicentennial year (Tab B). For what
reasons I am not sure, no African heads of state have been included
on the global recommendation for 1976 state and official visits sub-
mitted by the Department. The Department of State believes, and I
concur, that it is important in our bicentennial year that at least one
African head of state be invited here for a state visit. President
Tolbert is a highly recommended candidate. We have longstanding
and special ties with Liberia, and a state visit by him will be recog-
nized by the Africans as an appropriate symbol of U.S. African
relations. In addition, a visit would be in keeping with President
Tolbert's expressed desire that his next visit to the United States
(he frequently comes here) be by formal invitation. A state visit
would also be beneficial to the maintenance of our close ties with
Liberia where we have important political, economic and strategic
interests.
RECOMMENDATION:
That you forward to the President the Schedule Proposal at Tab A
recommending a state visit for President Tolbert.
7604651
XR-7605235
1714
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Washington, D.C. 20520
March 22, 1976
CONFIDENTIAL
MEMORANDUM FOR MR. BRENT SCOWCROFT
THE WHITE HOUSE
Subject: State Visit for President William R.
Tolbert Jr. - Liberia
The Department of State suggests that President
Tolbert of Liberia be invited to pay a state visit
to the United States during the bicentennial year.
President Tolbert is the only African Head of State
the Department will propose for a state visit during
the bicentennial year. He has been selected because
of the unique historic relationship between this
country and Liberia, as well as for his personal
qualities as a moderate African leader. Because our
special relationship with Liberia is widely recognized,
this invitation will not nèed to be balanced or offset
by an invitation to any other African head of state.
Liberia was established as a haven for freed
American slaves with the financial and material
support of the United States Government. Throughout
Liberia's early history the United States Government
exercised its good offices to protect Liberia against
encroachment by foreign powers. American private
investment in Liberia has been substantial and now
totals almost half a billion dollars. On a per capita
basis our public assistance to Liberia has been the
greatest on the African continent.
Liberian institutions are copied from American
models. Liberians seeking education abroad usually
attend American schools. The American dollar is
CONFIDENTIAL
DECLASSIFIED
GDS
B.O. 12958, Sec. 3.5
State Dept. Guidelines
statelariew 9/16/03
by
, NARA, Date 3/6/04
CONFIDENTIAL
- 2 -
Liberia's currency. As their contribution to our
special relationship, the Liberians have permitted
us to site three strategic communications facilities
in their country and they consistently have given
us their diplomatic support on issues important to
us, e.g. Korea, Zionism and Angola. A confidential
agreement gives us military access to the country's
principal airport and harbor in the event of
national emergency.
A Baptist minister, President Tolbert has been
a vigorous proponent of peaceful change in Africa.
At some political risk he has endorsed publicly the
concept of dialogue with South Africa. On repeated
occasions he has helped negotiate disputes between
African governments. He condemned Soviet and Cuban
intervention in Angola. He corresponds frequently
with President Ford and met with the President in
November 1974 while in the United States to receive
the Family of Man Award for his humanitarian activities.
A skilled statesman, Tolbert has been able to
both retain a close association with the United
States and maintain his credentials within the Third
World community. A state visit to the United States
would enhance his status in Africa and reassure him
of American interest in Liberia at a moment when
African moderates are worried by the MPLA's apparent
victory in Angola.
The Department recommends that President Tolbert
be invited to the United States on a state visit and
suggests that this visit take place sometime in August.
n
George S. Springsteen
C. arthm Bag
Executive Secretary
CONFIDENTIAL
5h
DOC
RECD
LOG NUMBER
MO
DA
MO
DA
HR
INITIAL ACTION o
NSC CORRESPONDENCE PROFILE
3
22
3
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18
7601714
7605235
TO: PRES
FROM: SECSTATE
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SUBJECT STole proposed with invitation to Pew Tabert
of Liseria 6 Jay -STate visit to Us during
Becontenuial INTERNAL ACTION ROUTING AND CONCUR- DISTRIBUTION COOR you INFO
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MEMO
TO
FAR EAST PRC
RECOMMENDATIONS
INTELLIGENCE
JOINT MEMO
LATIN AMERICA
REFER TO
FOR:
MID EAST/ NO. AFRICA
ANY ACTION NECESSARY?
NSC PLANNING
CONCURRENCE
PROGRAM ANALYSIS
SCIENTIFIC
DUE DATE: 3/25
COMMENTS: INCLUDING SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
SUB-SAH/ AFRICA/ UN
x
DATE
FROM
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STATUS
SUBSEQUENT ACTION REQUIRED (OR TAKENI:
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CY TO
3-31
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3-24
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4/13
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NSC 76-21
U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE - 599-022 - 1976
599-022
2313
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 22, 1976
Dear Mr. President:
The celebration of the United States Bicentennial
Anniversary this year will focus attention on rela-
tionships which have special historic importance
for the American people. More than 20 million
Americans trace their origin to the African conti-
nent, and our relations with Liberia date back to
the early years of our Republic.
I have asked Secretary Kissinger to convey to you
personally my invitation to pay a State visit to this
country at a mutually convenient date during the
latter half of our Bicentennial. I hope you will be
able to accept this invitation, for I believe your
visit would permit us to demonstrate the importance
Americans attach to Africa and the special place
Liberia occupies in our relations with other nations.
It would also enable us to discuss personally those
issues affecting Africa and the United States which
have been the subject of our correspondence since
your last visit to Washington.
Sincerely,
Heral R. 3rd
His Excellency
William R. Tolbert
FORD
President of Liberia
&
Monrovia
GERALD
MEMORANDUM
$4/22/76
bB
2313
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
CONFIDENTIAL (GDS)
ACTION
hh 3/6/04
April 22, 1976
THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN
MEMORANDUM FOR: THE PRESIDENT
B
FROM:
BRENT SCOWCROFT
SUBJECT:
State Visit of Liberia's President Tolbert
You have approved a state visit for President Tolbert during our
bicentennial celebrations at a mutually convenient date in the latter
half of 1976. The Liberian Government has not been informed of
this invitation, and in view of his pending visit to Liberia during
his African trip, it would be appropriate for Secretary Kissinger
to extend this invitation on your behalf. The Department of State
has recommended that the Secretary deliver to President Tolbert
a personal letter from you formally extending that invitation.
I concur in this recommendation and have attached an appropriate
suggested letter. Doug Smith in Robert Hartmann's office has
cleared the text of the letter.
RECOMMENDATION:
That you sign the letter at Tab A to President Tolbert.
FORD
?
GERALD
AH
MEMORANDUM
bc
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
2313
CONFIDENTIAL (GDS)
ACTION
lobe 3/6/04
April 20, 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR:
BRENT SCOWCROFT
FROM:
Hal Horan DA
SUBJECT:
Presidential Correspondence: Invitation to
Liberia's President Tolbert to Make a
State Visit in 1976.
Attached is a self-explanatory memo to the President forwarding for
his signature an invitation to Liberian President Tolbert to make a
state visit to the United States during the latter part of 1976. If
signed, Secretary Kissinger plans to deliver this letter to President
Tolbert personally when he visits Liberia during his trip to Africa.
I believe it is appropriate for the President to extend this invitation
and for Secretary Kissinger to deliver it. A suggested letter of
invitation is attached at Tab A. Doug Smith in Robert Hartmann's
office has cleared the text of the letter.
RECOMMENDATION:
That you forward to the President the memorandum at Tab I.
FORD
?
GERALD
2313
CONFIDENTIAL (GDS)
ACTION
lobs 3/6/04
MEMORANDUM FOR: THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
BRENT SCOWCROFT
SUBJECT:
State Visit of Liberia's President Tolbert
You have approved a state visit for President Tolbert during our
bicentennial celebrations at a mutually convenient date in the latter
half of 1976. The Liberian Government has not been informed of
this invitation, and in view of his pending visit to Liberia during
his African trip, it would be appropriate for Secretary Kissinger
to extend this invitation on your behalf. The Department of State
has recommended that the Secretary Meliver to President Tolbert
a personal letter from you formally extending that invitation.
I concur in this recommendation and have attached an appropriate
suggested letter. Doug Smith in Robert Hartmann's office has
cleared the text of the letter.
RECOMMENDATION:
That you sign the letter at Tab A to President Tolbert.
FORD & LIBRARY OERALD
6E
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
2313
WASHINGTON
CONFIDENTIAL (GDS)
ACTION
lab 3/6/04
MEMORANDUM FOR: THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
Brent Scowcroft
SUBJECT:
State Visit of Liberia's President Tolbert
You have approved a state visit for President Tolbert during our
bicentennial celebrations at a mutually convenient date in the latter
half of 1976. The Liberian Government has not been informed of
this invitation, and in view of his pending visit to Liberia during
his African trip, it would be appropriate for Secretary Kissinger
to extend this invitation on your behalf. The Department of State
has recommended that the Secretary deliver to President Tolbert
a personal letter from you reiterating that invitation.
foremally extending
I concur in this recommendation and have attached an appropriate
suggested letter. Doug Smith in Robert Hartmann's office has
cleared the text of the letter.
RECOMMENDATION:
That you sign the letter at Tab A to President Tolbert.
R.
FORD
GERALD
LIBHARY
68
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
4/20/76
TO:
Doug Smith
FROM:
Hal Horan, *x 5022, OEOB 301
SUBJECT: Presidential Letter to President
of Liberia
For your clearance. URGENT
another letter Secretary k
wants to take to africa w/
hing.
FORD LIBRARY &
4/20/76
1:40 p.m.
SUGGESTED LETTER TO
bb
His Excellency
William R. Tolbert
President of Liberia
Monrovia
Dear Mr. President:
The celebration of the United States Bicentennial Anniversary
this year will focus
on
is an oceasion too give particular attention to relationships which have
More than
special historic importance for the American people. Over 20 million
Americans trace their origin to the African continent and our relations
with Liberia date back to the early years of the American our republic.
99
personally
I have asked Secretary Kissinger to convey to you ^ my invitation to
participate in our Bicentennial celebrations by making pay a State visit
to this country at a mutually convenient date during the latter half
our Bicertennial.
of
the year I hope you will be able to accept this invitation, for
I believe your visit would permit us to demonstrate the importance
and
Americans attach to Africa as well as the special place Liberia
relations with aprica 0 thet nations.
occupies in our affections. It would also me to discuss
personally those issues affecting Africa and the United States which
have been the subject of our correspondence since your last visit to
Washington.
Sincerely,
FORD LIDRA by
(GRF)
LS PALD
Jeanne David 6H
SUGGESTED LETTER TO
His Excellency
President of Liberia
/ Climmu
Returnsto H Howans
William R. Tolbert
Monrovia
Dear Mr. President:
m
The celebration of the United States Bicentennial Anniversary
is an occasion to give particular attention to relationships which have
special historic importance for the American people. Over 20 million
Americans trace their origin to the African continent and our relations
with Liberia date back to the early years of the American republic.
personally
I have asked Secretary Kissinger to convey to you my invitation to
participate in our Bicentennial celebrations by Janes making a State visit
to this country at a mutually convenient date during the latter half
our Cicruttrucial
of the year. I hope you will be able to accept this invitation, for
I believe your visit would permit us to demonstrate the importance
Americans attach to Africa as well as the special place Liberia
relations with aprica
occupies in our affections. It would also allow you and me to discuss
personally those issues affecting Africa and the United States which
have been the subject of our correspondence since your last visit to
Washington.
Sincerely,
FORD
&
(GRF)
EMALD
DOC
RECD
LOG NUMBER
61
MO
DA
MO
DA
HR
INITIAL ACTION o
NSC CORRESPONDENCE PROFILE
4204
7602313
TO: PRES
FROM: SECSTATE
S/S
UNCLAS LOG OUT
SCOWCROFT
+
SECDEF
LOU
NO FORN
NODIS
HYLAND
REF
EYES ONLY
EXDIS
DAVIS
S
CODEWORD
SOURCE/CLASS/DESCRIPTION
STATE DCI Doran EXSEC X
C
SUBJECT Res OTHER Invitation TS to SENSITIVE
Liberia hes Inchect to make a
State Usit in 1976
INTERNAL ROUTING AND DISTRIBUTION
REC
ACTION REQUIRED
ACTION
CONCUR-
COOR-
INFO
CY
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DINATE
FOR
ADV CYS 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
ANY ACTION NECESSARY?
NSC PLANNING
CONCURRENCE
PROGRAM ANALYSIS
DUE DATE:
SCIENTIFIC
COMMENTS: (INCLUDING SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
SUB-SAH/ AFRICA/ UN
Leonend, m
DATE
FROM
July
STATUS
4/20
hes SUBSEQUENT for ACTION decision REQUIRED (OR TAKENI:
DUE
CY TO
X
4/27
BYPASS
4-21
Pus
P
Degnistr to Talhest
SUBSEQUENT ROUTING/ACTIONS
4-22
NSCS
C
Pressed lx to Tolhest
&
JERALO
MICROFILM a FILE ROMTS
NSC/S DISP INSTR
DISPATCH hand Comund by Horan NOTIFY 4/22
M/F'D
SPECIAL DISPOSITION:
CR APR-26-1976 1976 NS
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SPECIAL INDEXING:
OPEN
B
WH SA FP
4
CLOSE
PA
SUSPENSE CY ATTACHED
NSC 76-21
U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE - 599-022
1976
599-022
OF STATE
EXC-S
*
Department of State
UNITED OF /
TELEGRAM
I
Wtt
CONFIDENTIAL 9874
PAGE 01 MONROV 29947 281640Z
47
ACTION 58-25
INFO OCT-01 ISO-00 SSO-00 CCO-00 1026 W
039131
o 281608Z APR 75
FM AMEMBASSY MONROVIA
TO SECSTATE WASHDC IMMEDIATE 9981
INFO AMEMBASSY KINSHASA IMMEDIATE
6 N N I MONROVIA 29947
EXDIS
FOR SECRETARY
E.O. 11652: GDS
TAGS: -OVIP (KISSINGER, HENRY A.), PFOR, US
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL MESSAGE
REF: MONROVIA 2853, STATE 97581
!. I HAVE JUST RECEIVED FROM F. REGINALD TOWNSEND, GOL'S MINISTER
OF STATE FOR PRESIDENTIAL AFFAIRS, THE FOLLOWING:
ATF
DEAR AMBASSADOR CARTER:
BECAUSE OF THE URGENCY AND IMPORTANCE OF THE ATTACHED MESSAGE
WHICH PRESIDENT TOLBERT IS SENDING TO PRESIDENT FORD, I SHALL
BE MOST GRATEFUL WERE YOU TO BE KIND ENOUGH TO COOPERATE WITH US
BY HAVING IT CABLED OFF THROUGH YOUR MISSION'S FACILITIES TO
ENSURE THAT IT REACHES ITS HIGH DESTINATION. UNQTE.
2. PRESIDENT TOLBERT'S MESSAGE FOLLOWS:
QTE
PRESIDENT GERALD FORD
THE WHITE HOUSE
GERALO R FORD LIBRANT
CONFIDENTIAL
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
tala 3/6/04/9
FORM
OF & STATE
Department of State
of AMERICA CELINO
TELEGRAM
CONFIDENTIAL
PAGE 02 MONROV 29947 281640Z
WASHINGTON DC
DEAR MR. PRESIDENT:
I ACKNOWLEDGE WITH APPRECIATION YOUR VERY KIND MESSAGE IN WHICH
EXPIS
YOU INDICATED THE IMPORTANCE WHICH YOU ATTACH TO SECRETARY
KISSINGER'S VISIT TO LIBERIA AND TO AFRICA. NOT ONLY DO I
WELCOME THIS MOST TIMELY VISIT WHICH OFFERS YOUR GOVERNMENT A
FRESH OPPORTUNITY TO ASSESS AT A HIGH LEVEL THE UNFOLDING CRISIS
IN SOUTHERN AFRICA, BUT I AM LOOKING FORWARD WITH SOME ANTICIPATION
FOR THE POSSIBILITIES IT WILL AFFORD OUR TWO COUNTRIES TO ADD NEWER
DIMENSIONS TO A RELATIONSHIP UNIQUE IN THE ANNALS 0F AMERICAN
AFRICAN COLLABORATION. I AM IMMENSELY HEARTENED TO LEARN OF THE
RENEWED DISPOSITION OF YOUR COUNTRY TO STRENGTHEN ITS RELATIONSHIP
WITH AFRICA AT THIS CRUCIAL STAGE OF THE STRUGGLE TO ELIMINATE
COLONIALISM, RACIALISM AND OTHER FORMS OF INJUSTICES AND INDIGNITIES
FROM THE AFRICAN CONTINENT. FOR I HAVE REMAINED CONVINCED THAT
IN A CRISIS SITUATION OF GLOBAL PROPORTIONS SUCH AS WE NOW HAVE
EVOLVING IN SOUTHERN AFRICA, THERE IS A ROLE THAT CAN CONSTRUCTIVELY
CONTRIBUTE TO AN ENDURING SOLUTION WHICH HISTORY HAS IMPOSED ON
THE UNITED STATES. THIS IS WHY FOLLOWING THE RECENT EVENTS IN
ANGULA, I WROTE TO YOU IN A SIMILAR VEIN AND ALSO CALLED
UPON OTHER WESTERN DEMOCRACIES TO ACT DECISIVELY TO AVERT A
CRISIS so THAT MAJORITY RULE AND RACIAL JUSTICE MAY COME TO THE
REGION OF SOUTHERN AFRICA. THAT SECRETARY KISSINGER'S VISIT CAN
ALSO SERVE AS AN OPPORTUNITY OF FURTHERING THE EXCHANGES WHICH
WE INITIATED IN WASHINGTON ON OUR BILATERAL RELATIONS, I FULLY
WELCOME. AND I DO so THE MORE AT A TIME WHEN AMERICA CELEBRATES
TWO HUNDRED YEARS OF EXEMPLARY DEMOCRACY AND CONSTRUCTIVE
CONTRIBUTIONS TO INTERNATIONAL PEACE, SECURITY AND PROGRESS, AND
LIBERIA, WHICH SHARES HISTORICAL AFFINITY WITH AMERICA, IS PRE-
OCCUPIED WITH A SUSTAINED AND DEDICATED EFFORT TO BRING SPEEDY
AND MEANINGFUL DEVELOPMENT TO ALL OF ITS CITIZENS. THE
INGREDIENTS SEEM TRULY ASSEMBLED FOR ADDING NEWER DIMENSIONS TO
OUR HISTORIC SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP. I FULLY SHARE YOUR HOPE,
MR. PRESIDENT, THAT SECRETARY KISSINGER'S TRIP WILL GENERATE
MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING AND COOPERATION BETWEEN THE AMERICAN AND
AFRICAN PEOPLES AT THIS MOMENT WHEN AFRICAN NATIONS ARE MOVING
COMMITTEDLY TO ACHIEVE FOR ALL OF THE PEOPLES OF THE CONTINENT
THAT POLITICAL LIBERTY AND ECONOMIC WELLBEING WITH WHICH THE
AMERICAN PEOPLE ARE NOW SO FAMILIAR. WITH SENTIMENTS OF HIGHEST
R.
GERALD
FORMOS
CONFIDENTIAL
LIBRA
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
*
Department of State
AMERICA UNITED
TELEGRAM
ST. TES OF
CONFIDENTIAL
PAGE 03 MONROV 29947 281640Z
CONSIDERATION AND ESTEEM
SINCERELY,
w. R. TOLBERT, JR. UNQTE.
3. EMBASSY IS TRANSMITTING BY POUCH ABOVE DOCUMENTS IN THE
EXPIS EXATS
ORIGINAL.
CARTER
GERALD LIBRARY ? FORD
CONFIDENTIAL
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE AUTHORIZATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
8A
028
0
N
COPY
OP IMMED
LFI668
DE RUEHLF #3706 1200240
0 290240Z APR 76 ZFF-4
FM USEL SECRETARY IN KINSHASA
TO AMEMBASSY MONROVIA IMMEDIATE
INFO SECSTATE WASHDC IMMEDIATE 1710
CONPIDENTIALSECTO 11150
E.O. 116521 GDS
TAGS: PFOR, LI
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL MESSAGE
REF: MONROVIA 29481 MONROVIA 2947
NO OBJECTION IF WHITE HOUSE CONCURS.
KISSINGER
BT
via
OK
B
FORD
?
GERALD
PSN#019346
PAGE 01
OF 01
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DTG1290240Z APR 75
0
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lake 3/6/04
8B
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OP IMMED
MAA099
DE RUEHAM #2948 1191650
0 281645Z APR 76
FM AMEMBASSY MONROVIA
TO SECSTATE WASHDC IMMEDIATE 9982
INFO AMEMBASSY KINSHASA IMMEDIATE 762
0 N D N I M MONROVIA 2948
EXDIS
FOR SECRETARY
E.O. 116521 GDS
TAGS: OVIP CKISSINGER, HENRY As3, PFOR, us
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL MESSAGE
REF: MONROVIA 2947
FOREIGN MINISTER DENNIS HAS JUST PHONED ME TO INQUIRE IF THE USG
WOULD HAVE ANY OBJECTION TO THE PUBLIC RELEASE OF PRESIDENT
TOLBERTIS LETTER TO PRESIDENT FORD (REFTEL). HE ASKED TO BE
ADVISED IF AT ALL POSSIBLE ON THURSDAY, 29 APRIL.
CARTER
BT
FORD
RALD ERALD R
LIBRARY
RECALLED
PSN:019090
PAGE 01
OF 01
TOR:119/23:532 079:281645Z APR 76
0
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0
lala 3/6/04
8c
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OP IMMED
CRL098
DE RUEHAM #2947 1190620
0 281608Z APR 76
FM AMEMBASSY MONROVIA
TO SECSTATE WASHDC IMMEDIATE 9981
INFO AMEMBASSY KINSHASA IMMEDIATE 761
N A MONROVIA 29947
EXDIS
FOR SECRETARY
E.O. 11652: GDS
TAGS: OVIP (KISSINGER, HENRY And, PFOR, us
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL MESSAGE
REF: MONROVIA 2853, STATE 97581
1. I HAVE JUST RECEIVED FROM E. REGINALD TOWNSEND, GOL'S MINISTER
OF STATE FOR PRESIDENTIAL AFFAIRS, THE FOLLOWING:
QTE
DEAR AMBASSADOR CARTER:
BECAUSE OF THE URGENCY AND IMPORTANCE OF THE ATTACHED MESSAGE
WHICH PRESIDENT TOLBERT IS SENDING TO PRESIDENT FORD, I SHALL
BE MOST GRATEFUL WERE YOU TO BE KIND ENOUGH TO COOPERATE WITH US
BY HAVING IT CABLED OFF THROUGH YOUR MISSION!!S FACILITIES TO
ENSURE THAT IT REACHES ITS HIGH DESTINATION. UNQTE.
2. PRESIDENT TOLBERT'S MESSAGE FOLLOWS:
QTE
PRESIDENT GERALD FORD
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON DC
DEAR MR. PRESIDENT:
I ACKNOWLEDGE WITH APPRECIATION YOUR VERY KIND MESSAGE IN WHICH
YOU INDICATED THE IMPORTANCE WHICH You ATTACH TO SECRETARY
KISSINGER'S VISIT TO LIBERIA AND TO AFRICA. NOT ONLY DO I
WELCOME THIS MOST TIMELY VISIT WHICH OFFERS YOUR GOVERNMENT A
FRESH OPPORTUNITY TO ASSESS AT A HIGH LEVEL THE UNFOLDING CRISIS
IN SOUTHERN AFRICA, BUT I AM LOOKING FORWARD WITH SOME ANTICIPATION
FOR THE POSSIBILITIES IT WILL AFFORD OUR TWO COUNTRIES TO ADD NEWER
DIMENSIONS TO A RELATIONSHIP UNIQUE IN THE ANNALS OF AMERICAN
AFRICAN COLLABORATION. I AM IMMENSELY HEARTENED TO LEARN OF THE
*WHSR COMMENT
SCOW, HY, BUD, HORAN
RECALLED
FORD
PSN:019153
PAGE 01
TOR:120/00:302
DTG1281608Z APR 76
N
N
COPY
GERALD
LIBRARY
bla 3/6/04
N
COPY
RENEWED DISPOSITION OF YOUR COUNTRY TO STRENGTHEN ITS RELATIONSHIP
WITH AFRICA AT THIS CRUCIAL STAGE OF THE STRUGGLE TO ELIMINATE
COLONIALISM, RACIALISM AND OTHER FORMS OF INJUSTICES AND INDIGNITIES
FROM THE AFRICAN CONTINENT. FOR I HAVE REMAINED CONVINCED THAT
IN A CRISIS SITUATION OF GLOBAL PROPORTIONS SUCH AS WE NOW HAVE
EVOLVING IN SOUTHERN AFRICA, THERE IS A ROLE THAT CAN CONSTRUCTIVELY
CONTRIBUTE TO AN ENDURING SOLUTION WHICH HISTORY HAS IMPOSED ON
THE UNITED STATES. THIS IS WHY FOLLOWING THE RECENT EVENTS IN
ANGOLA, I WROTE TO YOU IN A SIMILAR VEIN AND ALSO CALLED
UPON OTHER WESTERN DEMOCRACIES TO ACT DECISIVELY TO AVERT A
CRISIS SO THAT MAJORITY RULE AND RACIAL JUSTICE MAY COME TO THE
REGION OF SOUTHERN AFRICA. THAT SECRETARY KISSINGER'S VISIT CAN
ALSO SERVE AS AN OPPORTUNITY OF FURTHERING THE EXCHANGES WHICH
WE INITIATED IN WASHINGTON ON OUR BILATERAL RELATIONS, I FULLY
WELCOME. AND I DO so THE MORE AT A TIME WHEN AMERICA CELEBRATES
TWO HUNDRED YEARS OF EXEMPLARY DEMOCRACY AND CONSTRUCTIVE
CONTRIBUTIONS TO INTERNATIONAL PEACE, SECURITY AND PROGRESS, AND
LIBERIA, WHICH SHARES HISTORICAL AFFINITY WITH AMERICA, IS PRE-
OCCUPIED WITH A SUSTAINED AND DEDICATED EFFORT TO BRING SPEEDY
AND MEANINGFUL DEVELOPMENT TO ALL OF ITS CITIZENS. THE
INGREDIENTS SEEM TRULY ASSEMBLED FOR ADDING NEWER DIMENSIONS TO
OUR HISTORIC SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP. I FULLY SHARE YOUR HOPE,
MR. PRESIDENT, THAT SECRETARY KISSINGER'S TRIP WILL GENERATE
MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING AND COOPERATION BETWEEN THE AMERICAN AND
AFRICAN PEOPLES AT THIS MOMENT WHEN AFRICAN NATIONS ARE MOVING
COMMITTEDLY TO ACHIEVE FOR ALL OF THE PEOPLES OF THE CONTINENT
THAT POLITICAL LIBERTY AND ECONOMIC WELLBEING WITH WHICH THE
AMERICAN PEOPLE ARE NOW SO FAMILIAR. WITH SENTIMENTS OF HIGHEST
CONSIDERATION AND ESTEEM
SINCERELY,
W. R. TOLBERT, JR. UNQTE.
3, EMBASSY IS TRANSMITTING BY POUCH ABOVE DOCUMENTS IN THE
ORIGINAL.
CARTER
BT
FORD
&
OERALO
LIBRARY
RECALLED
PSN#019153
PAGE 02
OF 02
TOR:120/00:30Z
DTG:281608Z APR 76
N
COPY
0
CLASSIFICATION:
9A
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
REFERRAL
Date: June 11, 1976
NSC log # 7602960
MEMORANDUM FOR:
George S. Springsteen
Executive Secretary
Department of State
DOCUMENT DESCRIPTION:
To: Pres Tolbert
From:
Pres
Date: June 11, 1976
Subject: Response to Pres Tolbert's ltrs
ACTION REQUESTED:
Draft reply for:
President's Signature
White House Staff
Other
Direct reply
Furnish info copy
XXX Dispatch
Translation
Recommendations / Comments
Appropriate Handling
Other
Information
DUE DATE:
COMMENTS:
FV FORD LIBRARY
for Jeanne W. Davis
Staff Secretary
CLASSIFICATION:
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
June 11, 1976
Dear Mr. President:
Thank you for your letters of April 28, on the eve of
Secretary Kissinger's visit to Liberia, and of May 12
discussing the outcome of his visit. The Secretary's
statements at Lusaka, Dakar, Nairobi during the
UNCTAD meeting, and of course in Monrovia all
reflect the importance we attach to events in Africa
and to our relations with Africa. Your views expressed
in previous letters on issues affecting Africa, particu-
larly southern Africa, have been most useful in shaping
our approach to these problems, and I want to thank
you for sharing them with me.
Upon Secretary Kissinger's return to the United States
I reviewed with him the results of his trip, including
his meetings with you and Foreign Minister Dennis.
I am delighted that you have accepted my invitation
to visit the United States and look forward to welcoming
you here again, when we can continue our useful
exchange on issues of importance to our two govern-
ments.
Sincerely, Herold R. 3rd
His Excellency
William R. Tolbert, Jr.
President of the Republic of Liberia
Monrovia
&6/10/96
9L
MEMORANDUM
THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN
THE WHITE HOUSE
2960
ACTION
WASHINGTON
CONFIDENTIAL (GDS)
June 9, 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR:
THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
BRENT SCOWCROFT
B
SUBJECT:
Suggested Response to Letters from
President Tolbert of Liberia
President Tolbert wrote to you on April 28 (Tab B) welcoming
Secretary Kissinger's then prospective April 30 visit to Liberia, and
again on May 12 (Tab C) to express his pleasure at that visit and his
hope that the Secretary's pronouncements will result in concrete
action by the United States Government. In his second letter President
Tolbert also informs you of the positive reactions of Liberia's neighbors--
Guinea's President Toure and Sierra Leone's President Stevens -- to
these pronouncements. Lastly, he expresses appreciation for your
invitation to visit the United States later this year.
I believe it would be appropriate for you briefly to acknowledge this
correspondence from President Tolbert. Your proposed response
indicates that the Secretary's statements in Africa reflect the increased
importance we attach to our relations with that continent and that Tolbert's
own views on these issues have been most useful to us. The letter also
expresses your pleasure that President Tolbert has accepted your invita-
tion to visit the United States. Doug Smith in Bob Hartmann's office has
cleared the text of the proposed letter.
RECOMMENDATION
That you forward to President Tolbert the letter at Tab A.
CONFIDENTIAL (GDS)
Wa 3/6/04
Tab 1 Fud to T1
MH
MEMORANDUM
6 9 915 9
aD
far
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
2960
CONFIDENTIAL (GDS)
ACTION
June 4, 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR:
BRENT SCOWCROFT
FROM:
Hal Horan
SUBJECT:
Presidential Correspondence: Suggested
Response to President Tolbert of Liberia
Attached is a self-explanatory memorandum to the President recom-
mending he send a letter to President Tolbert acknowledging recent
correspondence from him on the Secretary's trip to Africa and the
President's invitation to Tolbert to visit the United States this year.
RECOMMENDATION:
That you forward to the President the memorandum at Tab I.
CONFIDENTIAL (GDS)
lda 3/6/04
GERALO fl. FORD LIBRARY
LIMITED OFFICIAL USE
CLASSIFICATION
S/S# 7611549
Date June 4, 1976
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
EXECUTIVE SECRETARIAT
TRANSMITTAL FORM
for: Mr. Brent Scowcroft
National Security Council
The White House
REFERENCE:
TO: The President
FROM: President William R. Tolbert
DATE: May 12, 1976
SUBJECT: Secretary Kissinger's
trip to Liberia
WHITE HOUSE REFERRAL DATE:
NSC# 2960 APD- on
(if any)
THE ATTACHED ITEM WAS SENT DIRECTLY
X TO THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE from the Embassy, Monrovia
ACTION TAKEN:
A draft replyis attached.
A draft reply will be forwarded.
A translation is attached.
An information copy of a direct reply is attached.
We believe no response is necessary for the
reason cited below.
X Other
REMARKS:
A response was prepared by the Department and forwarded to
11
the White House on May 20 under a Memorandum for Mr. Brent Scowcroft
numbered 7610329. Its corresponding NSC number is 2960.
En D. Newson
George S. Springsteen
R. FORD
for
Executive Secretary
7610329
2960
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Washington, D.C. 20520
May 20, 1976
CONFIDENTIAL (EXDIS ATTACHMENT)
MEMORANDUM FOR MR. BRENT SCOWCROFT
THE WHITE HOUSE
Subject: Suggested Presidential Response to President
Tolbert of Liberia
The attached letter is a suggested response by
President Ford to President Tolbert's letters of April 28
and May 12. The original of the April 28 letter and a copy
of the May 12 letter are attached.
In his first letter President Tolbert welcomes the
prospective April 30 arrival of Secretary Kissinger in
Liberia and the opportunity thus afforded for a continuing
exchange of ideas on issues affecting Africa and the world.
The second letter records President Tolbert's pleasure in
the Secretary's visit and his hope that the Secretary's
pronouncements will result in concrete action by the U.S.
Government. It also reports the positive reactions of
Liberia's neighbors--Guinea President Ahmed Sekou Toure and
Sierra Leone President Siaka P. Stevens--to these pronounce-
ments and expresses President Tolbert's appreciation for the
invitation from President Ford to visit the United States.
In addition to thanking President Tolbert for his views
on African questions, the attached draft expresses President
Ford's interest in continuing their exchange during Tolbert's
visit to the United States later this year.
C.
arth
George S. Springsteen
Executive Secretary
Attachments:
As stated
R.
FORD
CONFIDENTIAL
GDS
lab 3/6/04
LIBRARY
Dear Mr. President:
Thank you very much for your letters of April 28,
on the eve of Secretary Kissinger's visit to Liberia,
and of May 12 discussing the outcome. The Secretary's
Dahn,
pronouncements at Lusaka, Nairobi during the UNCTAD meeting,
and of course in Monrovia all reflect the increased im-
and to our relations with africa,
portance we attach to events in Africa. Your views ex-
pressed in previous letters on issues affecting Africa,
particularly southern Africa, have been most useful in
shaping our approach to these problems, and I want to
thank you for sharing them with me.
Secretary Kissinger has returned to the United
States, and I have reviewed with him the results of his
trip to Africa, including his meetings with you and Foreign
Minister Dennis. I am delighted that you have accepted
my invitation to visit the United States and look forward
to welcoming you here again later this year, when we can
continue our useful exchange on issues of importance to
our two governments.
Sincerely,
Gerald R. Ford
His Excellency
William R. Tolbert, Jr.,
President of the Republic of Liberia,
Monrovia.
Department of State
GERALD R. FORD
9H
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
TO:
DOUG SMITH
FROM: HAL HORAN #44 OEB 301, X 5022
SUBJECT: Presidential Letter to Liberia's
President Tolbert
For your clearance.
FORD & LIBRANT
5/21/76
91
3:35p.m.
3:35
g.
Dear Mr. President:
Thank you very much for your letters of April 28,
on the eve of Secretary Kissinger's visit to Liberia,
and of May 12 discussing the outcome. The Secretary's
)
pronouncements at Lusaka, Nairobi during the UNCTAD meeting,
J
and of course in Monrovia all reflect the increased im-
and to our relations with afrea.
portance we attach to events in Africa. N Your views ex-
pressed in previous letters on issues affecting Africa,
particularly southern Africa, have been most useful in
shaping our approach to these problems, and I want to
thank you for sharing them with me.
Upon Secretary Kissingers has returne to the United
States,
and
I
reviewed with him the results of his
trip to Africa, including his meetings with you and Foreign
Minister Dennis. I am delighted that you have accepted
my invitation to visit the United States and look forward
to welcoming you here again later this year, when we can
continue our useful exchange on issues of importance to
are
our two governments.
Sincerely,
will
Gerald R. Ford
OR
His Excellency
William R. Tolbert, Jr
,
President of the Republic of Liberia,
5/1/71
Monrovia.
Department of State
RATO R FORD
THE EXECUTIVE MANSION
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
MONROVIA, LIBERIA
May 12, 1976
Dear Mr. President:
As Secretary Kissinger has already no doubt
reported to you, we were delighted by his visit
to Liberia and the opportunity which his brief stay
in Monrovia afforded for us to exchange views with
him on matters of mutual interest between traditional
friends. I am happy to say that the unique character
of the relationship between the United States and
Liberia was reflected throughout our discussions.
We want to take this occasion to commend you for
the timeliness of Secretary Kissinger's visit to
Africa to espouse your new African policy which appears
to us to be more harmonious with the aspirations of the
African peoples. We are now all looking forward to see-
ing the pronouncements so well made by Secretary Kissinger
on your behalf and that of your Government reflected in
positive and concrete action.
I indicated to Secretary Kissinger during his visit
to Monrovia that I would be communicating with my
Colleagues in countries neighbouring Liberia to brief
them on the discussions we had held especially as they
concerned problems of Southern Africa and the question
of economic development of the continent. As Secretary
Kissinger was to be meeting with President Houphouet
Boigny of the Republic of the Ivory Coast in Paris, I
His Excellency Gerald R. Ford
President of the United States of America
The White House, Washington, D.C.
R.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
FORD
GERALD
LIBRATY
THE EXECUTIVE MANSION
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
MONROVIA, LIBERIA
- 2 -
sent my Foreign Minister with special messages to my
Colleagues, President Ahmed Sekou Toure of the
Republic of Guinea and President Siaka Stevens of the
Republic of Sierra Leone. I am pleased to inform you
of the positive reactions of these two African Leaders
to what apparently is a new American willingness to
cooperate with Africa as she endeavours to make greater
strides in the attainment of her legitimate political
and economic aspirations. In this light I am enclosing
herewith copy of a letter I have written to Secretary
Kissinger which I hope you will find informative.
Finally, allow me to express to you my deepest
appreciation for the kind invitation you extended me
through Secretary Kissinger, to pay a State Visit to
the United States during the second half of this year.
I look forward to seeing you then and to continue the
very useful exchanges which we commenced during our
first meeting in Washington in November 1974.
With sentiments of highest consideration and esteem,
Sincerely,
.f
R. Tolbert, Jr.
FORD & LIBRARY
COPY
THE EXECUTIVE MANSION
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
MONROVIA, LIBERIA
May 12, 1976
Dear Secretary Kissinger:
Let me take this occasion to again express to
you how pleased we were to have you with us in Liberia
during your recent visit to Africa. Although your stay
with us was brief, it did afford the opportunity for an
exchange of views with you as your Government evolves a
new policy toward Africa, which seems to be much more
in harmony with the political and economic aspirations
of the peoples of this Continent. You told us during
your visit that the pronouncements you have been making
were the beginning of a process and not an end in itself.
As we indicated to you and have confirmed in our earlier
message to President Ford, we are always pleased to offer
such advice and counsel as the circumstances may require.
During our meeting in Monrovia, I informed you that
since my incumbency as President of Liberia I have
endeavoured to keep my Colleagues in countries neigh-
bouring Liberia informed of important events which occur
in Liberia from time to time. Because of the significance
of your visit, I indicated that I would be briefing
President Sekou Toure of the Republic of Guinea and
President Siaka Stevens of the Republic of Sierra Leone
on the highlights of our discussions, especially as they
affected Southern Africa and economic development for
this continent. My Minister of Foreign Affairs who was
His Excellency Henry A. Kissinger
Secretary of State of the United States of America
The State Department, Washington, D.C.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
FORD
&
kla
DERALD
THE EXECUTIVE MANSION
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
MONROVIA, LIBERIA
- 2 -
the bearer of special messages to these two Heads of
State has returned to me and reported the very positive
reactions of both President Toure and President Stevens
with regard to the new and promising direction which
United States foreign policy toward Africa seems to be
taking. Both of them made particular reference to your
pronouncements in Lusaka and Monrovia and commended you
for them. I trust that you found your talks in Paris
with President Houphouet-Boigny of the Republic of the
Ivory Coast most rewarding.
President Sekou Toure has shared with me his views
on your visit to Africa, and has offered an advice
which you may want to take into consideration as you
move toward implementation of the very forthright pro-
nouncements you made during your visit to Africa. I
quote hereunder relevant portions of his letter to me
on the question:
"We have followed through radio the tour of the
American Secretary of State, Mr. Kissinger, we
have registered his Lusaka Declaration as a new
orientation of the United States African policy.
We have been very much impressed by it because,
like you, we noted that a very great country like
the United States of America was wrong for not
having clearly enough indicated the orientation
of their policy in Africa. Until now, the United
States of America appeared as the policeman of
Europe which colonized us and as being always
ready to bring their contribution to this Europe,
&
FORD
GERALD
LIBRARY
THE EXECUTIVE MANSION
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
MONROVIA, LIBERIA
- 3 -
against the legitimate interest of our peoples.
Now that the United States of America are
defining a clear position, favourable to the
acceleration of the decolonization movement in
Africa, we feel that they are thereby creating
a new context which will cause the rise and growth
of the confidence and esteem of our peoples for
them. This fact will create in history a new
situation beneficiary both to the people of the
United States of America themselves and the African
peoples as well.
We entertain the hope that beyond the speeches,
since intentions do not make history, but actions
instead, we entertain the hope, we say, that the
United States of America will pass to concrete
actions and these actions will be in favour of Africa
and to the honour of the American Government and
people. The sincere and strong support of the
United States of America for the struggle of Africa
to throw off the yoke of all foreign domination
could create a solid basis for cooperation between
America and Africa as a whole. One should not
delude himself on the division of Africa, because if
Africa is ideologically, racially and religiously
divided, it remains however very much united on
the watch word of national independence which regains
the dignity of the Continent as a whole, and that
on this point, no division is possible even though
some isolated individuals could be demented enough
to adopt an attitude contrary to this reality.
My dear Brother President, here we think that it
is our duty to suggest to you a few words of advice
which you could give to the American authorities:
henceforth not to consider the African problems
through the version given by Europe or by the
FORD
?
CARLO
9817
THE EXECUTIVE MANSION
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
MONROVIA, LIBERIA
- 4 -
partisans of apartheid. The United States of
America must consider the African problems as
problems specific to the African peoples and any
just stand, concerning Africa, must respect the
unanimous will of our peoples and their aspira-
tions for freedom and self-determination on their
soil. One may not share the ideology practiced
by a regime, but this cannot be a just pretext to
be opposed to the freedom of the people concerned.
When the American press, in assessing the events
of Angola, announced that "the United States of
America have been surprised, but will not stand
idly by, with regards to Namibia and Rhodesia"
such a statement, or such a policy could only offend
the conscience of the Africans and allienate them
from the United States of America.
We have said that for the sake of freedom, Africa
welcomes any assistance, because it has severely
experienced slavery, for many centuries. Its only
glimmer of hope is in its freedom. It is therefore
up to the foreign countries to define themselves
either for or against African freedom.
The right of peoples to national independence,
sovereignty, full and complete freedom, the right
of peoples to dispose of themselves, the right of
peoples to the free choice of their regime is an
indefeasible right, an unconditional right. Nothing
nor any power can limit it. Nothing nor any power
can venture to postpone its actualization. It is
not a right which can be satisfied with being simply
enunciated without undertaking what must achieve it.
It is not an abstract right, a potential right.
It is a concrete right, the achievement of which
cannot legitimately suffer any delay. The violation
9. FORD LICRARY
THE EXECUTIVE MANSION
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
MONROVIA, LIBERIA
- 5 -
of this right is a crime against humanity as a
whole. Any indifference towards this right is
a culpable behaviour.
The struggle among the great powers is a
strategic subject which is of interest to them.
The importance and legitimacy of this struggle
are lesser compared with the importance and legi-
timacy of the liberation struggle of a people,
however small that people can be.
Thus, if the United States of America accelerate
decolonization, Africa will not utilize arms nor
ask other assistance to achieve its necessary and
total liberation. And we feel, as for us, that
it would be a political and moral duty for such
a great power as the United States of America to
assist, through deeds to the realization of this
liberation.
The speeches made in Lusaka and Monrovia by
the American Secretary of State confirmed in us
the impression that a new era is being opened for
American policy in Africa. Facts will show whether
our impression is well founded."
You may rest assured that I shall continue to
utilize my finest energies in any manner I can to be
helpful in inspiring greater confidence in the interest
of world peace and security and the relationship between
the United States of America and Africa.
With kindest regards and best wishes,
Sincerely,
Sgd.
W. R. Tolbert, Jr.
1 FORD
LIBERIA
THE EXECUTIVE MANSION
MINISTRY OF STATE FOR PRESIDENTIAL AFFAIRS
MONROVIA, LIBERIA
MONROVIA
TELEGRAM
APRIL 28, 1976
PRESIDENT GERALD FORD
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON DC
USA
DEAR MR PRESIDENT I ACKNOWLEDGE WITH APPRECIATION YOUR
VERY KIND MESSAGE IN WHICH YOU INDICATED THE IMPOR-
TANCE WHICH YOU ATTACH TO SECRETARY KISSINGERS VISIT
TO LIBERIA AND TO AFRICA STOP NOT ONLY DO I
WELCOME THIS MOST TIMELY VISIT WHICH OFFERS YOUR
GOVERNMENT A FRESH OPPORTUNITY TO ASSESS AT A HIGH
LEVEL THE UNFOLDING CRISIS IN SOUTHERN AFRICA CMA
BUT I AM LOOKING FORWARD WITH SOME ANTICIPATION FOR
THE POSSIBILITIES IT WILL AFFORD OUR TWO COUNTRIES
TO ADD NEWER DIMENSIONS TO A RELATIONSHIP UNIQUE IN
THE ANNALS OF AMERICAN AFRICAN COLLABORATION STOP I
AM IMMENSELY HEARTENED TO LEARN OF THE RENEWED DIS-
POSITION OF YOUR COUNTRY TO STRENGTHEN ITS RELATIONSHIP
WITH AFRICA AT THIS CRUCIAL STAGE OF THE STRUGGLE TO
ELIMINATE COLONIALISM CMA RACIALISM AND OTHER FORMS
OF INJUSTICES AND INDIGNITIES FROM THE AFRICAN CONTINENT
STOP FOR I HAVE REMAINED CONVINCED THAT IN A CRISIS
SITUATION OF GLOBAL PROPORTIONS SUCH AS WE NOW HAVE
EVOLVING IN SOUTHERN AFRICA CMA THERE IS A ROLE THAT
CAN CONSTRUCTIVELY CONTRIBUTE TO AN ENDURING SOLUTION
TRALD P. FORD LIB
IBERTY
REPUBLIC LIBERIA
THE EXECUTIVE MANSION
MINISTRY OF STATE FOR PRESIDENTIAL AFFAIRS
MONROVIA, LIBERIA
- 2 -
WHICH HISTORY HAS IMPOSED ON THE UNITED STATES STOP
THIS IS WHY FOLLOWING THE RECENT EVENTS IN ANGOLA
CMA I WROTE TO YOU IN A SIMILAR VEIN AND ALSO
CALLED UPON OTHER WESTERN DEMOCRACIES TO ACT DECI-
SIVELY TO AVERT A CRISIS so THAT MAJORITY RULE
AND RACIAL JUSTICE MAY COME TO THE REGION OF SOUTHERN
AFRICA STOP THAT SECRETARY KISSINGERS VISIT CAN ALSO
SERVE AS AN OPPORTUNITY OF FURTHERING THE EXCHANGES
WHICH WE INITIATED IN WASHINGTON ON OUR BILATERAL
RELATIONS CMA I FULLY WELCOME STOP AND I DO so THE
MORE AT A TIME WHEN AMERICA CELEBRATES TWO HUNDRED
YEARS OF EXEMPLARY DEMOCRACY AND CONSTRUCTIVE CONTRI-
BUTIONS TO INTERNATIONAL PEACE CMA SECURITY AND
PROGRESS CMA AND LIBERIA CMA WHICH SHARES HISTORICAL
AFFINITY WITH AMERICA CMA IS PREOCCUPIED WITH A
SUSTAINED AND DEDICATED EFFORT TO BRING SPEEDY AND
MEANINGFUL DEVELOPMENT TO ALL OF ITS CITIZENS STOP
THE INGREDIENTS SEEM TRULY ASSEMBLED FOR ADDING NEWER
DIMENSIONS TO OUR HISTORIC SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP STOP
I FULLY SHARE YOUR HOPE CMA MR PRESIDENT CMA THAT
SECRETARY KISSINGERS TRIP WILL GENERATE MUTUAL UNDER
STANDING AND COOPERATION BETWEEN THE AMERICAN AND
GERALD
a FORD LIBRARY
CTHELOVEOF LIBERTY
REPUBLIC LIBERIA
THE EXECUTIVE MANSION
MINISTRY OF STATE FOR PRESIDENTIAL AFFAIRS
MONROVIA, LIBERIA
- 3 -
AFRICAN PEOPLES AT THIS MOMENT WHEN AFRICAN NATIONS
ARE MOVING COMMITTEDLY TO ACHIEVE FOR ALL OF THE
POEPLES OF THE CONTINENT THAT POLITICAL LIBERTY AND
ECONOMIC WELLBEING WITH WHICH THE AMERICAN PEOPLE
ARE NOW so FAMILIAR STOP WITH SENTIENTS OF HIGHEST
CONSIDERATION AND ESTEEM SINCERELY
WR TOLBERT JR
FOR SENDER: MINISTER OF STATE FOR
PRESIDENTIAL AFFAIRS
GERALD
pi. FORD LIBRARY
am
Retype:BS:mb 6/8/76
2960
ACTION
CONFIDENTIAL (GDS)
MEMORANDUM FOR:
THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
BRENT SCOWCROFT
SUBJECT:
Suggested Response to Letters from
President Tolbert of Liberia
President Tolbert wrote to you on April 28 (Tab B) welcoming
Secretary Kissinger's then prospective April 30 visit to Liberia, and
again on May 12 (Tab C) to express his pleasure at that visit and his
hope that the Secretary's pronouncements will result in concrete
action by the United States Government. In his second letter President
Tolbert also informs you of the positive reactions of Liberia's neighbors--
Guinea's President Toure and Sierra Leone's President Stevens -- to
these pronouncements. Lastly, he expresses appreciation for your
invitation to visit the United States later this year.
I believe it would be appropriate for you briefly to acknowledge this
correspondence from President Tolbert. Your proposed response
indicates that the Secretary's statements in Africa reflect the increased
importance we attach to our relations with that continent and that Tolbert's
own views on these issues have been most useful to us. The letter also
expresses your pleasure that President Tolbert has accepted your invita-
tion to visit the United States. Doug Smith in Bob Hartmann's office has
cleared the text of the proposed letter.
RECOMMENDATION
That you forward to President Tolbert the letter at Tab A.
CONFIDENTIAL (GDS)
lab 3/6/04
FORD w PERMID
Dear Mr. President:
Thank you for your letters of April 28, on the eve of
Secretary Kissinger's visit to Liberia, and of May 12
discussing the outcome of his visit. The Secretary's
statements at Lusaka, Dakar, Nairobi during the
UNCTAD meeting, and of course in Monrovia all
reflect the importance we attach to events in Africa
and to our relations with Africa. Your views expressed
in previous letters on issues affecting Africa, particu-
larly southern Africa, have been most useful in shaping
our approach to these problems, and I want to thank
you for sharing them with me.
Upon Secretary Kissinger's return to the United States
I reviewed with him the results of his trip, including
his meetings with you and Foreign Minister Dennis.
I am delighted that you have accepted my invitation
to visit the United States and look forward to welcoming
you here again, when we can continue our useful
exchange on issues of importance to our two govern-
ments.
Sincerely,
His Excellency
William R. Tolbert, Jr.
President of the Republic of Liberia
Monrovia
R.
FOA
BS:mb 6/8/76
GERALD
90
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Dear Mr. President:
fhis inst.
of
Thank you for your letters of April 28, on the eve of
Secretary Kissinger's visit to Liberia, and of May 12
discussing the outcome The Secretary's pronounce statements
ments at Lusaka, Dakar, Nairobi during the UNCTAD
meeting, and of course in Monrovia all reflect the in-
creased importance we attach to events in Africa and
to our relations with Africa. Your views expressed
in previous letters on issues affecting Africa, parti-
cularly southern Africa, have been most useful in
shaping our approach to these problems, and I want
to thank you for sharing them with me.
Upon Secretary Kissinger's return to the United States
I reviewed with him the results of his trip, including
his meetings with you and Foreign Minister Dennis.
I am delighted that you have accepted my invitation
to visit the United States and look forward to welcoming
you here again, later this year, when we can continue
our useful exchange on issues of importance to our two
governments.
Sincerely,
His Excellency
William R. Tolbert, Jr.
President of the Republic of Liberia
Monrovia
ap
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
2960
WASHINGTON
CONFIDENTIAL (GDS)
ACTION
MEMORANDUM FOR:
THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
Brent Scowcroft
SUBJECT:
Suggested Response to Letters from
President Tolbert of Liberia
President Tolbert wrote to you on April 28 (Tab B) welcoming Secre-
tary Kissinger's then prospective April 30 visit to Liberia, and again
on May 12 (Tab C) to express his pleasure at that visit and his hope
that the Secretary's pronouncements will result in concrete action by
the United States Government. In his second letter President Tolbert
also informs you of the positive reactions of Liberia's neighbors --
Guinea's President Toure and Sierra Leone's President Stevens --
to these pronouncements. Lastly, he expresses appreciation for your
invitation to visit the United States later this year.
your peoposel response
I believe it would be appropriate for you briefly to acknowledge this
correspondence from President Tolbert. and I have attached a sug
gested text. The letter indicates that the Secretary's statements in
Africa reflect the increased importance we attach to our relations
with that continent and indicates that Tolbert's own views on these
issues have been most useful to us. The letter also indicates Thresses your pleasure
delight that President Tolbert has accepted your invitation to visit
the United States. Doug Smith in Bob Hartmann's office has cleared
the text of the proposed letter.
RECOMMENDATION:
That you forward to President Tolbert the letter at Tab A.
CONFIDENTIAL (GDS)
66 3/6/04
FORD a. DERALD LIBRARY
DOC
RECD
LOG NUMBER
TR
MO
DA
MO
DA
HR
NSC CORRESPONDENCE PROFILE
520
5.
20
16
7602960
Hran INITIAL ACTION o
TO: PRES
FROM: SECSTATE
S/S 7610329
UNCLAS LOG IN/OUT
SCOWCROFT
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recent Resit to afrin & 6s- africa
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LATIN AMERICA
REFER TO
FOR:
MID EAST/ NO. AFRICA
ANY ACTION NECESSARY?
NSC PLANNING
CONCURRENCE
PROGRAM ANALYSIS
DUE DATE:
5-27 5 27
SCIENTIFIC
COMMENTS: INCLUDING SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS)
SUB-SAH/ AFRICA/ UN
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is in "P" status w/ the Pres and has been
WH DATE (cyD FROM
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6/11
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NUN 15 1976
SPECIAL DISPOSITION:
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NSC 76-21
U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE - 599-022 - 1976
599-022
THE EXECUTIVE MANSION
10
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
FYI
MONROVIA, LIBERIA
HBud
October 7, 1976
Dear Mr. President:
Permit me once more to express to you, on behalf
of Mrs. Tolbert, our Suite and myself, our profound
thanks and sincere gratitude for having invited us
to pay a State Visit to the United States during this
historic and memorable year marking the American Bi-
centennial.
Having safely returned to Liberia, we can all
reflect with deep satisfaction upon the warm and
traditional American hospitality, the extraordinary
care and cordiality which attended our visit.
We were thereby inspired. And we are determined
to work particularly with America on the new agenda
for world stability, peace and prosperity.
Our special and historical ties demand this of
us, that with deep conviction and sincerity of pur-
pose we shall promote and defend the cause of freedom
and opportunity for the family of man and of nations.
We are convinced that it is the only renewal of honour
we can pay to the ageless ideals which bind and pre-
serve our common destiny.
With sentiments of my highest esteem,
Sincerely,
GERALO A. FORD VIBRANT
R.
Tolbert, Jr.
His Excellency Gerald R. Ford
President of the United States of America
The White House