762.65/88
Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State (Phillips)
The Italian Ambassador gave me the substance of a “circular telegram” which he had received two days ago reporting the visit of Suvich to Berlin. He characterized the visit as a courtesy return of the visits which Hitler, Goebbels and Goering had recently made to Rome. He understood that the Germans had been somewhat put out because no Italian official had visited Berlin and that the steps to send Suvich there had been arranged in consequence. Suvich had talked over in particular three subjects—Disarmament Conference, League of Nations, and the relations of Hitler with respect to Austria.
Regarding disarmament Suvich had counseled moderation in German demands, and the Italians hoped through conversations quietly conducted outside the press, an understanding could be arrived at with the French. With regard to the League Hitler had stated his unwillingness to return to it unless its framework had been substantially changed to allow Germany a larger voice. With respect to Austria Suvich had expressed the earnest hope that the Nazi agents in Austria would be less active. Hitler replied that he did not consider that there was any “actual problem” at the present time with respect to Austria. The Ambassador went on to explain the Italian attitude with respect to Austria and the problem which would be created in the event of anschluss. He reiterated that nothing of any importance had occurred during the conversation; that Suvich’s visit was purely one of courtesy, etc., etc.