711.90H/38: Telegram

The Ambassador in France (Straus) to the Secretary of State

905. Department’s 425, October 14, 8 p.m. The Embassy found the text of article 4 as suggested in the Embassy’s telegram No. 548, June 29, 11 a.m., was approved by the Department’s telegram No. 263, July 3, 6 p.m. The present proposed Afghan alteration would make that article read as follows: [Page 563]

“With respect to customs duties or charges of any kind imposed on or in connection with importation or exportation, and with respect to the method of levying such duties or charges, and with respect to all rules and formalities in connection with importation or exportation, and with respect to all laws or regulations affecting the sale or use of imported goods within the country, any advantage, favor, privilege or immunity which has been or may hereafter be granted by the United States of America or the Kingdom of Afghanistan to any article originating in or destined for any third country shall be according [accorded] to the like article originating in or destined for the Kingdom of Afghanistan or the United States of America, respectively.”

As pointed out in previous telegrams Afghan Legation understands the principle enunciated in the article is that of most-favored-nation treatment. If the language quoted above is satisfactory the signature of the treaty could be arranged in short order. On the other hand, if the Department wishes to submit other new language, matter must wait further references to Kabul.

Straus