772.00/7–1052: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Consulate General at Tunis1
4. Ladgham visited Dept Tues express disappointment 1) US had not at least abstained re special session, and particularly 2) had explained its negative vote by reference to Fr program, implying it formed proper basis for discussion with Tunisian auths. He particularly disliked this indication US considers Baccouche Cabinet as duly constituted Tunisian auths. He referred to Chenik as PriMin and to fact that even Hauteclocque is not duly accredited, not having reed necessary documentation from Bey this regard. Stated if special session occurs, he might be in position to formulate res to resolve differences, but that as matter of principle no such conciliatory attitude cld prevail at 7th UNGA.
Ladgham reiterated his understanding US position in light of world problems but protested above mentioned negative vote and implication as gratuitous US blows to nationalist cause, and stated US vote on special session less sympathetically understood in Tunisia than SC abstention vote.
Ladgham was urged not to foreclose discussion of Fr plan, as real hope for Tunisians lies in constructive suggestions re program.
- This telegram was drafted by Cyr and cleared by NEA, WE, and UNP. It was repeated to Paris.↩