745A.00/9–1552: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in the Union of South Africa, at Pretoria
43. During courtesy call on Secy sixteenth1 Havenga said he understood why it was impossible raise gold price now but was encouraged by trend and believed his view wld eventually prevail in view need for nations to increase monetary reserves. Expressed regret necessity SoAfr discrimination US trade in order insure Brit investment, supply SoAfr gold for UK and maintain Brit market for wine and fruit. Secy said we understood problem but cannot waive on matter of principle though we had not pressed issue. Havenga gratified Secy assurance early conversion jets SoAfr squadron.
At Emb dinner Secy told Havenga our concern re effect SoWest Afr issue upon Union’s already strained relations in UN and expressed hope SoAfr cld make some concession. Havenga receptive and indicated intention use his influence this end. Secy also mentioned hesitancy US investors due uncertainty polit situation but Havenga unimpressed. Said he personally knew major US interests investing SoAfr [Page 935] and had reassured them on future stability. On basis your advice Embtel 652 no direct reference made SoAfr domestic crisis. Briefing papers and memo of conversations being airmailed.
- Memorandum of conversation for this meeting (not printed) is located in Secretary’s Memoranda of Conversation, lot 53 D 344.↩
- Not printed, but see footnote 3, p. 928.↩