881.00/9–1947: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in France
4028. Urdesp 9644, Sep 19. French North African plans undergoing careful study Dept but several questions have arisen which require clarification. We agree with you that “time table” for successive evolutionary steps is essential and must be included in plans if we are to support them. Of even more importance, however, is lack any indication French plans for making known their long-range program to North Africans. Until this done and in manner best designed appeal to latter we have no grounds for approach to Nationalist leaders contemplated by North African Paris meeting. We would welcome Emb’s views whether French plans could most effectively be made known to Arabs through public announcement or through more private meeting between high French officials and Nationalist leaders, bearing in mind that several important leaders reside Cairo. Has FonOff indicated approval US approach to Nationalists?
In this connection not clear Dept exactly what French envisage as eventual political connection between Metropole and Tunisia and Morocco because although self-govt is mentioned on page 5, par 3 same page makes reference “modus vivendi similar to that which has been achieved by the French and British in Canada.” We assume this does not mean French envisage Tunisia and Morocco as becoming “Quebecs” but rather refers only to relationship between French and Moslem peoples living in North Africa.
To what specifically does FonOff refer on page 8 wherein mentioned “great value placed by French Govt on formal assurances which have recently been given to it by London and Washington Govts?”
We would welcome Emb’s preliminary estimate effect on relations between France and Empire in general and North Africa in particular of possible accession to power in France of De Gaulle.1
- Gen. Charles de Gaulle, former President of the Provisional French Government, head of the political party called RPF (Rassemblement du peuple français).↩