740.0011 European War 1939/24641: Telegram
The Minister in Egypt ( Kirk ) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 4—4:34 p.m.]
1746. Legation’s 1590, September 7.22 Letter received today from Smith at Asmara requests that Department be informed that he has returned traveling via the Addis-Asmara Road and resumed charge September 27.
He stated that he is working on report of his trip and requested that following message be sent to Department.
“It is my understanding that the Emperor of Ethiopia has asked President Roosevelt for permission to join the United Nations Pact.23 What is the status of this request? The admission of Ethiopia is regarded as conditioned upon a declaration of a state of war between Ethiopia and the Axis Powers. Favorable action would facilitate situation for all parties as otherwise Ethiopia is considered neutral.”
In connection with foregoing see my 1033, June 19, 9 p.m.24 and previous.