Khrushchev and Ambassador Ghaleb discuss Soviet-UAR relations, emphasizing cooperation on the Aswan Dam and differing views on the UN “troika” proposal. Khrushchev offers candid criticism of Western influence and advises caution regarding Arab unification efforts, referencing the recent Syrian secession.

As Ambassador El-Kuni bid farewell to Khrushchev, he thanked the Soviet Union for its support of the Arab peoples and the UAR, while Khrushchev expressed hope for continued strong relations, highlighting the Aswan Dam as a lasting symbol of friendship. Khrushchev also privately criticized the UAR's treatment of communists and warned that undemocratic practices could strain relations, while El-Kuni defended the government's actions as necessary for national stability.

Brezhnev congratulates Nasser on strengthening Egypt's national independence and rebuffing against imperial actions in the Middle East. Brezhnev clearly states the Soviet Union's commitment to supporting Egypt against Israeli aggression.

On May 3, 1961, Nikita Khrushchev met with a delegation from the United Arab Republic (UAR) led by Anwar Sadat. The meeting began with expressions of gratitude and solidarity, highlighting Soviet support for UAR independence and its struggle against imperialism, particularly in relation to the construction of the Aswan Dam and resistance to Western aggression in the Middle East. Khrushchev emphasized the superiority of socialism and communism, advocating the Soviet model as an example for nations striving for independence and progress. Sadat expressed appreciation for Soviet assistance and raised concerns about the financial burden of purchasing weapons from the USSR. He requested a reduction in the price, citing UAR’s commitments to supporting anti-imperialist struggles across Africa and Asia. Khrushchev acknowledged the UAR’s vital role in the global anti-colonial movement but maintained that the USSR could not lower its weapons prices due to its own economic constraints and the need for consistency in its aid policies. Despite these limitations, Khrushchev promised to explore alternative ways to assist the UAR. The conversation concluded with mutual respect and reaffirmation of Soviet-UAR solidarity.

This document summary was generated by an artificial intelligence language model and was reviewed by a Wilson Center staff member.

Khrushchev and Ali Sabri discussed political developments in the Middle East, including the revolutions in Yemen and Iraq, as well as efforts to reunify Egypt and Syria within the framework of Arab unity. They also addressed Soviet-Egyptian relations, including ongoing Soviet assistance with projects like the Aswan Dam, and the positive visit of Nasser’s family to the USSR. Khrushchev expressed skepticism about the political direction of Iraq and Syria and cautioned against anti-communist tendencies, while affirming support for Arab independence and cooperation with Egypt.