Dear John: Before leaving on my forthcoming tour to Europe, the Mediterranean and the Near East, I have found it desirable to write the various Presidents of the Latin American Republics to try to afford them some perspective regarding my plans and objectives in these various visits.1 I know that very little explanation is necessary in your case, but I do desire to drop you one more line of correspondence before leaving.2
My visit will take me to Rome, Ankara, Karachi, Kabul, New Delhi, Tehran, Athens, Tunis, Paris, Madrid, and Casablanca. In each country I will of course have an opportunity to visit with the head of government and exchange views, as well as to participate in ceremonial occasions. Accordingly, I have every hope that at least some good may come from this undertaking.
Whenever one undertakes a project of this sort, there is the danger that his motives and objectives will be widely misinterpreted. Most prevalent, of course, is the concern held by many that I will be attempting to negotiate on this trip, to represent the views of other members of the North Atlantic Alliance, and possibly even to further the cause of the interests of the United States in some parts of the world, as against those of our friends. I need not assure you that nothing could be further from the truth. My purpose in making these visits is simply to do what I can to strengthen the ties which bind the nations of the Free World together. You and I have found from experience that there is no substitute for personal contact in furthering understanding and good will.
I think it is desirable also to take all possible steps to allay the fears of those in underdeveloped countries regarding the objectives and ambitions of the West, and the United States in particular. I am especially anxious to convince our friends that the vast military power, including the nuclear deterrent which is maintained by the West, serves, in our view, one purpose only--a defensive purpose to deter aggression.
The tour will be fatiguing, to say the least, and when we couple this with commitments for a Summit meeting and a return visit to Moscow, my schedule would appear full indeed for my remaining time in office. I still count, however, on the opportunity of seeing you in the months ahead.
I leave Thursday evening. That time is almost upon us, but if you would want to suggest anything to me before departure, I would, as always, welcome a phone call from you.3
With warm personal regard, Sincerely
