Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 58 Part 2.djvu/573

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58 STAT.] LEBANON-RIGHTS OF AMERICAN NATIONALS-SEPT. 7 , 8 , 1944 Agreement between the United States of America and Lebanon respecting September7, 8,1944 rights of American nationals. Effected by exchange of notes signed at [E . A. s.435 Beirut September 7 and 8, 1944. The American Diplomatic Agent to the Lebanese Minister for Foreign Affairs LEGATION OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA September 7, 1944. EXCELLENCY: I have the honor to inform Your Excellency that my Government has observed with friendly and sympathetic interest the accelerated transfer of governmental powers to the Lebanese and Syrian Govern- ments since November 1943 and now takes the view that the Lebanese and Syrian Governments may now be considered representative, effectively independent and in a position satisfactorily to fulfil their international obligations and responsibilities. The United States is, therefore, prepared to extend full and uncon- ditional recognition of the independence of Lebanon, upon receipt from Your Excellency's Government of written assurances that the existing rights of the United States and its nationals, particularly as set forth in the treaty of 1924 between the United States and France, 43 Stat 18 21 . are fully recognized and will be effectively continued and protected by the Lebanese Government, until such time as appropriate bilateral accord may be concluded by direct and mutual agreement between the United States and Lebanon. I am to add that, following the receipt of such assurances, my Government proposes to appoint an Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary as its representative near the Lebanese Government and would be pleased to receive in the United States a diplomatic representative of Lebanon of the same grade. Accept, Excellency, the renewed assurance of my highest con- sideration. G. WADSWORTH His Excellency SELIM BEY TAKLA, Minister for ForeignAffairs of the Republic of Lebanon, Beirut. 93650-45--PT . I1-36 1493