File No. 861.00/880
The Minister in Sweden (Morris) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 30, 3.37 a.m.]
1245. I have received official confirmation that delegation from Finnish government yesterday visited the King and asked Sweden to recognize Finland’s independence. King replied:
I beg you to express to the Finnish government my hearty thanks for the proposal made by you. I myself and the whole Swedish nation I am sure highly appreciate the fact that you first turned to Sweden which because of our common history for centuries, even of late, has always had the greatest interest in Finland’s fate.
I assure you that both I and my government have the warmest sympathy for Finland’s efforts to gain full independence and we sincerely hope to be able to recognize Finland as an independent state.
An important circumstance in this whole question is the possibility of an agreement between your country and Russia. However, I have reason to hope for a favorable result of your efforts. The position taken by other powers must of course also be taken into consideration.
You can always be assured of my warm wishes for you and the future welfare of your country.