881.00R/9–1650: Telegram
The Chargé in Greece (Minor) to the Secretary of State
899. At close[d] meeting yesterday Porter gave Greek Government prior warning reduction ECA aid to Greece explaining action due to inadequate Greek utilization previous US aid. Amount of cut not disclosed. Immediate reaction not particularly strong, Coordination Minister Stephanopoulos1 inquiring whether improved performance [Page 407] would result in restoration of cut. ECA/G still plans release prepared statement (Embtel 859 September 13)2 probably early next week.
All Athens papers this morning report news of cut[,] stating ECA action based on US opinion political instability responsible for unsatisfactory progress of reconstruction. Press adds Porter stated that cut not political action specifically aimed at present government. However left-center opposition paper Eleftheria asserts government circles inclined believe Porter announcement similar to Grady letter.3 No editorial comment has yet appeared.
Local AP correspondent filing story on Porter announcement probably taking line reduction expresses general American dissatisfaction with Greek use US aid and does not indicate any specific American objection to present government.