868.03/11–150: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Yugoslavia
323. Secy today handed Popovic fol reply his note Oct 201:
“The Govt of the US has carefully studied the available info regarding the consequences of the drought and wishes to inform you of its desire to extend assistance to the Yugo people in the present emergency.
“The Govt of the US recognizes the importance of commencing food shipments this month and of having minimum stocks available in Yugo by the end of the year in order to prevent human suffering during the coming winter. I am pleased to inform you that the Govt of the US is prepared to take measures which are immed available to provide foodstuffs for this purpose. It is understood that the Govts of the US and of Yugo will agree promptly on appropriate arrangements covering matters such as supply and transportation, equitable distribution of the foodstuffs to the population of Yugo, and public awareness of this assistance.”
Secy indicated that shortly Dept wld be in touch with Yugo Emb re details and methods for providing food which involve several agencies US Govt. Secy also indicated in addition this stop-gap program Congress when it reconvenes will be requested for funds with which continue program. When Popovic asked in what manner Yugo Govt cld contribute smoothing way for favorable Congressional action Secy replied Dept wld consider this helpful suggestion and discuss it with Amb later.