611.59A31/83
Memorandum of Conversation, by Mr. Harry R. Turkel of the Division of Commercial Policy and Agreements
| Participants: | Mr. Thor |
| Mr. Asgeirsson, Icelandic Delegation | |
| Mr. Fowler,20 TA | |
| Mr. Turkel, TA |
Mr. Thor and Mr. Asgeirsson called on Mr. Fowler at 4 p.m. today to present a request for speedy action in respect to the announcement [Page 772] by this Government of an intention to negotiate a trade agreement with Iceland.
Mr. Thor stated that his delegation had arrived in Washington two and one-half months ago in order to obtain fulfilment by this Government of the promises21 made by the President of the United States to the Prime Minister on the occasion of the entry of American troops into Iceland on July 7, 1941. One of the promises made was in respect of a favorable trade agreement with Iceland. On arrival the delegation was told that action could be expected in the very near future, and thus far there had been nothing but exploratory conversations. The delegation was leaving for Iceland on Tuesday or Wednesday and desired to know what report it could make to the Icelandic Government and people.
Mr. Fowler replied that the procedure for announcement of intention to negotiate often became complicated and took more time than had been originally anticipated; that a considerable amount of progress had been made on the proposed agreement and that it was reasonable to expect early action. Mr. Fowler further stated that he would discuss the matter with Mr. Hawkins22 in an effort to expedite it, that if formal announcement were made before Wednesday the delegation would be informed at once, and if later than Wednesday, the American Legation at Reykjavik would be informed and they would communicate with the delegation members.
Mr. Thor stated that some members of the Icelandic Althing and public had stated that at the time it was decided to permit the establishment of American bases that it would be much easier for Iceland to obtain specific concessions before the troops were admitted and accordingly he was much disappointed that he might have to return to Iceland without the specific concessions which had been promised last July.