840.48/2675: Telegram
The Ambassador in Argentina (Stimson) to the Secretary of State
[Received 3:48 p.m.]
74. Department’s circular of March 13, 6 p.m., relief central Europe. The Minister for Foreign Affairs replied as follows:
“March 26 [25], I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of Your Excellency’s note which in the name of the Government of the United States invites the Argentine Government to assist in relieving the difficult situation through which central Europe is passing.
The Argentine Government animated by the same purposes and realizing the serious consequences of this state of affairs has addressed the Congress of the nation in the terms of a message which I take pleasure in transmitting to Your Excellency herewith.
As Your Excellency will observe this Government has considered the matter from the same high point of view as that expressed by your Government in not wishing to give to this action a significance which might wound the sensibilities of these nations.
In virtue of this the Argentine Government cannot help but look with complacency on the attitude of the Government of the United States and gladly agrees to assist in this task which is inspired by duties of humanity and civilization. Signed by the Minister for Foreign Affairs.”
There is then enclosed message from President to Congress of December 13th last calling attention to desperate situation and asking that law; be passed authorizing Government first to spend 5,000,000 pesos for acquisition of food, clothing, etc., for Vienna transporting them if necessary in a government vessel and, second, that reimbursement by Austria may be made at such time and in such manner as might be convenient to Austrian Government.
There is then enclosed recent message of President to Congress again calling attention to situation in Vienna and pointing out steps [Page 273] which British and United States Governments are taking and transmitting my note based on your circular telegram of March 13, 6 p.m.
Argentine action appears to be limited to relief of Vienna only and Argentine note to me, the full text of which follows by mail, makes no mention of advances on credit of fats or of sending representative to confer at Paris.