762.00/240: Telegram
The Chargé in Germany ( Gilbert ) to the Secretary of State
[Received February 6—7:40 a.m.]
94. In respect of German policy vis-à-vis the states to the east and southeast as pre-figured in Embassy’s 550, January 25,25 I now learn from an entirely informed confidential German source that the following has been laid down as Germany’s long term plan.
The aim gradually to be achieved is the bringing together with Germany into a, so to speak, “autarchic bloc” all of the states lying to the east and the southeast down to and including Turkey. In an exaggerated manner of speech this project might be described as a 4-year plan for the entire area. The plan will be developed without drama or sudden demonstrations primarily on an economic and commercial basis in distinction to a political basis. Such political associations as may occur will flow from economic associations. No particular methods are worked out for the relationship with the several countries concerned; it is contemplated that they will merely take such form as progressive developments may suggest. On this score however a possible move during the relatively initial stages of this general project may be something in the nature of a customs union with Czechoslovakia and Hungary. Italy will be granted wide participation in this scheme especially in the areas where her natural interests lie. An accord in principle and also including certain preliminary details has already been reached with Rome in respect of this matter. Poland will also participate to a degree this being progressively dependent on Poland’s general political position toward Germany. The plan in a general sense is already in motion.
- Not printed.↩