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The Conservation and Research Center of the National Zoo has been approached by the National Commission for Wildlife Conservation and Development of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with regard to a wildlife conservation complex in Taif. This complex has been under French management, and for various reasons the Saudi government has indicated its strong preference to turn over its management to the Smithsonian. The focus of the complex on endangered species is one in which the Zoo has internationally recognized expertise, and its management would unquestionably provide some significant research opportunities. But the form of the agreement, at least as it has been envisaged heretofore, also entails full management responsibilities within a context that unquestionably presents serious risks as well as opportunities.

Conscious of these risks (and with extensive field experience in the Middle East to buttress his understanding of them), the Secretary concluded last June that the Smithsonian should not enter into a management contract. The Smithsonian's strengths are in research and training -- the "increase and diffusion of knowledge." The diversity and complexity of its own programs is such as to absorb the full attention of its own senior management, so that management responsibilities in other settings are a questionable diversion. This is especially so at a time when the Institution's first priority is to conduct a difficult and possibly traumatic downsizing in the scale of its own operations.

Informally as well as by official letter, high Saudi official have urged that the Smithsonian reconsider this position. Acting Secretary of State Eagleburger has supported these representations. It has been promised that their request would be considered, and communicated to the Board of Regents. Smithsonian management's strong reservations have been reiterated, however, and no commitment has been made that any recommendation would be made to the Board for formal reconsideration of the negative decision made last June.

Informal discussions are continuing, both with representatives of the Saudi Government and the Department of State. There is a considerable possibility that a formula for a more restricted contractual arrangement will emerge, confining the Smithsonian role to research and training. The most relevant correspondence is appended, and fuller details will be provided to members of the Board upon request.