361.1121 Nausiainen, Elmer J./9
The Secretary of State to the Chargé in the Soviet Union (Grummon)
Sir: The receipt is acknowledged of your despatch no. 2413 of June 17, 193937 concerning the endeavors of the Embassy to obtain information from the People’s Commissariat for Foreign Affairs regarding the welfare and whereabouts of Elmer J. Nousiainen, an American citizen of dual nationality. The Embassy’s desire to ascertain the Department’s attitude toward the advisability of further representations in this matter has been noted.
The Department is of the opinion that the Embassy should continue its representations on behalf of Mr. Nousiainen. At your discretion you may inform the Soviet Foreign Office formally or informally when appropriate opportunities present themselves that since, according to the laws of the United States, Mr. Nousiainen appears to be an American citizen, it is the view of your Government that it is entitled as a matter of customary courtesy to be informed regarding the welfare and whereabouts of Mr. Nousiainen, regardless of what his citizenship status may be under Soviet law. This formula or variations thereof may be used in making inquiries at the People’s Commissariat for Foreign Affairs regarding other American citizens of dual nationality.
Very truly yours,
- Not printed.↩