740.0011 European War 1939/9316: Telegram
The Chargé in Germany (Morris) to the Secretary of State
[Received 6:49 p.m.]
1122. At 3:30 this afternoon at the Belvedere Palace in Vienna, Yugoslavia signed a protocol of adherence to the Three-Power Pact identical in terms with that signed by the previous adherents. Following the signature, the Prime Minister Cvetkovic declared on behalf of Yugoslavia that his Government and people had always appreciated the understanding shown by Germany for their ardent desire to maintain their freedom and independence. After referring to the agreements concluded by Yugoslavia with Italy, Hungary, and Bulgaria, he stated that Yugoslavia had no claims against its neighbors and that [Page 968] it had now decided to join the forces building a new order in southeastern Europe since its interests demanded that the Balkans region be preserved from an extension of the present war as a foundation for economic prosperity and good neighborly relations.
Ribbentrop speaking on behalf of the 3 allied powers and the 4 previous adherents to the pact said that while the new order in East Asia is steadily shaping itself under Japan’s sponsorship, the Axis has been swiftly gathering the forces of Europe into a growing organization for a new future. The accession of Yugoslavia to the new order, he added, is of special significance since it means not only that all the neutral Balkan countries have now opted for peace but also that a nation which has been particularly subject to British and American meddling has joined the block of nations which are determined to prevent an extension of the theatre of war. Ribbentrop stated that Germany has no territorial or political interests in southeastern Europe and seeks no military aid from anyone but is striving solely to exclude outside powers from the Continent and thus to lay the foundation for a just new order of lasting peace. At the close of the ceremonies, the participants, including Ciano,71 Oshima72 and the Ministers of the four previous adherents to the pact, were received by Hitler in the presence of Keitel73 in an adjoining room.
The German radio announced at 5 p.m. that simultaneously with the signing of the protocol the German and Italian Governments addressed notes to Yugoslavia stating that it is their intention always to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Yugoslavia and that in accordance with the understanding reached with the Yugoslav Government, the Axis Powers will not demand the right of passage of troops or war materials during the present war.
Repeated to Belgrade.