890E.00/318: Telegram
The Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Beirut (Wadsworth) to the Secretary of State
[Received 3:56 p.m.]
351. Period of 3 weeks since end Lebanese crisis reported in my 330, November 24, 10 [2] a.m., has been marked by general celebration of restoration of constitutional regime and by reconsolidation of Solh Government’s position including extensive changes in higher administrative posts. Latter have been generally well received by Deputies and public.
Parliament met only once on December 1. Speaker stressed “heroic and dignified attitude of Lebanese nation” during crisis. Premier reviewed events. Tribute was paid to British and American assistance and to support by sister Arab states. New Lebanese flag was unanimously adopted.
Foreign Minister tells me only important political developments have been conference between Syrian and Lebanese Ministers designed to outline common position to be taken in discussions with Catroux [Page 1053] (who arrived from Algiers yesterday) and French agreement in principle (communicated by Acting Delegate General) to transfer of all “common interests” services except in so far as partial retention is dictated by Allied military requirements.
Minister added that subject of discussions with Catroux will therefore be restricted to modalities of transfer and assurances regarding any specific French interests involved; there could be no question of concluding treaty of alliance or “otherwise prejudicing Lebanon’s political future as an independent state”.
Chief political officer of Spears Mission who has just returned from London expects also tripartite discussions (i.e. between British, French and Syro-Lebanese representation) for definition of authority to be reserved to British and French military commands.
Further evidence of common Syro-Lebanese approach to their common problems is found in action of Syrian President and Deputies in swearing allegiance December 14 to constitution of 115 articles as voted 1928 by Syrian Constituent Assembly. It was promulgated 1930 by French High Commissioner with article 116 designed to reserve rights and duties of mandatory power.
Both countries will therefore enter forthcoming discussions having formally declined by acts of their Parliaments to recognize that French possess such rights and duties.