Memorandum of Conversation: Giscard, Ford, 16 December 1974

During this meeting, President Giscard of France and President Ford discussed nuclear proliferation and the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Giscard expressed France's position of not joining the NPT but following its rules. He mentioned that some countries that were expected to join the treaty have not done so. President Ford stated that the U.S. Congress strongly supports the NPT and suggested holding an exporters conference to address concerns about nuclear materials. The conversation emphasized the need for uniform rules and safeguards without creating a centralized licensing body. Both presidents agreed to further discussions and the involvement of experts. They also mentioned the possibility of India's participation and the importance of including India and other countries in the suppliers conference. The meeting ended with a discussion on technical matters related to breeders and an exchange of warm words between the two leaders.

This was a key conversation in seeking French participation in the NSG and in restating that France would not join the NPT. 

The conversation also includes a mention of Israel i nuclear exports. This must relate to South Africa. It also states that China had not exported nuclear technology.