761.62/537
The Ambassador in Poland (Biddle) to the Secretary of State
[Received August 15.]
Sir: I have the honor to report that in recent conversation with Beck94 we discussed the matter of reported speculation in Western European political circles as of about 3 weeks ago on the possibility of Berlin’s and Moscow’s “getting together.”
Beck did not believe there was a likelihood of Berlin’s coming to terms with Moscow in the near future at least. By way of clarification he pointed out that, while it might be possible for the two capitals to see eye to eye in terms of commerce and other economic aspects,* the broad gap between the two doctrines of Naziism and Communism was a fundamental hindrance to complete agreement. He and his associates were convinced that the doctrine behind Stalin’s policy was still world revolution. Indeed, this doctrine was just as essential a part of Stalin’s policy as the Nazi doctrine was a part of Hitler’s policy. In the case of existent, so to speak, systems through the rest of the world, one might find a basis for compromise, even to the extent of political dealings between the various powers, but in the case of doctrines it was a different matter. As a matter of fact, Beck felt that it would be less difficult for the Western European democracies to adjust their line of thought in event they sought an understanding with the Axis powers than it would be for either Naziism or Communism to adjust their respective lines of thought were either or both in search of a common understanding.
[Page 332]He then reiterated his remarks to me on previous occasions that Poland’s relations with Russia were very correct and that a marked improvement in commercial relations was proving a real source of satisfaction, both for him and his associates.
Respectfully yours,
- Józef Beck, Polish Minister for Foreign Affairs.↩
- As pointed out in my letter to the President of April 7, 1939, Memorandum No. 2, page 2, I do not overlook possibility that Hitler, reportedly counting upon an exceptional strain and wear and tear on machinery in Russia (due to inexperienced and inefficient operators) to bring about a premature wear-out, hopes German heavy industry will figure as the largest supplier of Russian machinery replacement over the next several years. [Footnote in the original. The letter referred to is not in the Department files.]↩