891.00/1–846: Telegram
The Chargé in the Soviet Union (Kennan) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 8—3:22 p.m.]
73. Tass article from Tabriz published Soviet Press January 8 reports meeting in Tabriz between Pishevari22 and American Consul Rossow, at which latter is said to have stated that he was glad to make acquaintance of Premier in whose person he welcomed National Government of Iranian Azerbaijan. Article states further that upon being asked by Rossow about further plans of government Pishevari observed that these plans were set forth in program. He expressed wish that this program might be realized without bloodshed. Rossow advised that way be left open for negotiations with Tehran to which Pishevari replied that Tehran itself keeps way closed. Rossow inquired how Pishevari would proceed if Shah acknowledged autonomy. Pishevari replied that recognition alone was small matter, guarantee was required that autonomy would be preserved. Article states that [Page 298] Rossow in conclusion “promised to render all support to National Government of Iranian Azerbaijan”.23
Sent Department 73, repeated Tehran 3 and Frankfurt.
- Jafar Pishevari (or Peshavari), “Prime Minister of the National Government of Azerbaijan” and Chairman of the Democratic Party in Azerbaijan.↩
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In telegram 18, January 9, 1946, 7 p.m., the Department informed Tehran that “Press here has reported Tass despatch Jan. 8 from Tabriz to effect that Rossow in interview with Peshvari promised ‘all kinds of aid’ to National Govt Azerbaijan. Dept. spokesman in press statement Jan. 8 denied these allegations. He states that while Rossow did talk to Peshvari he merely listened and gave no assurances of any kind.” (891.00/12–2945)
In a letter of January 9 to the Director of the Office of Near Eastern and African Affairs (Henderson), the Iranian Ambassador, then in New York, stated that the Tass report had made a bad impression and caused great surprise (891.00/1–946).
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