Eastern European and Soviet Department: Soviet Intentions in Africa

A file of documents concerning Soviet intentions in Africa. Subjects discussed in the file include Soviet press commentary on developments in Namibia; Soviet and French press coverage of Chadian-Libyan unity; Soviet support for Libyan intervention in Chad; a Botswanan decision to purchase Soviet rather than British arms; a visit by a Soviet delegation to Zambia in connection with the state-farm programme; Soviet trade in Africa; Soviet fishing policy in Africa; and Soviet military and economic aid to Africa. Other subjects discussed in the file include Mozambique's application to join the Council for Mutual Economic Assistance; an increase in the Soviet naval presence in Mozambique; military clashes between Botswana and South Africa; and Ugandan requests for British television and radio training. Documents in the file include messages concerning Zambian relations with the Soviet Union and the Eastern bloc exchanged between the Zambian president, Kenneth Kaunda, and the British prime minister, Margaret Thatcher.