Foreign Relations of the United States: Diplomatic Papers, 1942, General; the British Commonwealth; the Far East, Volume I

701.0010/33: Telegram

The Chargé in Switzerland (Huddle) to the Secretary of State

Bern, February 28, 1942.
[Received February 28—8:40 a.m.]

808. American interests—Germany. Department’s 485, February 19th.²⁹ Swiss Minister, Berlin,^29a telegraphs February 24th following:

“Ministry Foreign Affairs informs me officially that exchange German group in South American countries which broke diplomatic relations after conference Rio de Janeiro^29b will not take place via United States.

German diplomats in Brazil will be exchanged directly against Brazilian group. All others will be assembled at Buenos Aires and transported from there aboard Argentine vessel to Lisbon. Arrangements to this end have been made with Argentinian and Brazilian Governments. Please inform State Department and Governments of Peru and Uruguay. Colombian diplomats in Germany will join perhaps above mentioned group as they prefer themselves to return with Brazilian group to avoid detour by United States. I would like to receive from State Department indications still lacking regarding exchange, the ship and its course.”

Swiss Foreign Office adds as exchange arrangements of personnel formerly accredited other American Republics have been handled by Department it would appreciate Governments Peru, Uruguay and Colombia being informed foregoing.

Huddle

29. See footnote 24, p. 312.
30. Paul Werner Steiner.
31. Third Meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the American Republics held January 15–28, 1942; for correspondence concerning this Conference, see vol. v.