840.50 Recovery/8–2647: Telegram
The Ambassador in Turkey (Wilson) to the Secretary of State
680. Foreign Minister said to me yesterday he wished consult US Government on following matter: Turkish representative on subcommittee of Paris Conference on European Reconstruction reported few days ago British delegate inquired of him whether Turkey would be prepared state its readiness: (a) Join General European Customs Union; and (b) as prior step enter customs union with Greece. British delegate indicated US Government favored Turkey taking both steps.
Saka said Foreign Office instructed Turkish representative: (a) Would require prolonged technical study and Turkey’s position would be influenced by attitude other countries; and (b) Turkey desires stress solidarity with Greece in all matters but special customs union would necessitate careful expert examination and Turkey has no knowledge, Greek Government views in matter.
Saka said would appreciate knowing views US Government re attitude Turkish Government might adopt.
Foreign Minister said Prime Minister asked him also consult US Government on following: Would it be advisable for Turkish Government make some declaration solidarity with Greece not only in economic field but also in political matters? From answers to questions I put, it appears Prime Minister has in mind something like joint Turco-Greek declaration of solidarity which could be interpreted as answer [Page 316] to recent Bled agreement between Yugoslavia and Bulgaria regarded here as directed against Greece.
As regards Prime Minister’s inquiry, it seems to me unwise for Turkey take any initiative of this sort. Greek case will come before UN Assembly shortly and would seem advisable await action there. I should add that Saka said Turkish Government will support fully any action proposed by US in Assembly in behalf Greece.1
This telegram sent Department only.
- In telegram 520, September 5, to Ankara the Department supported Ambassador Wilson’s “view we should not advise Turk Govt make declaration of political solidarity with Greece. We have no objection to such declaration if Turks want to make it but consider preferable such action await result forthcoming UN assembly.” (840.50 Recovery/8–2647). In telegram 566, October 2, the Department informed the Embassy in Ankara that a “Customs union between Turkey and Greece or between Turkey and several other countries would be acceptable to U.S. provided that such customs union conformed to provisions Article 42 Draft ITO Charter.” (840.50 Recovery/8–2647)↩