Foreign Relations of the United States: Diplomatic Papers, 1943, General, Volume I

740.00113 European War 1939/612: Airgram

The Secretary of State to the Chargé in the United Kingdom (Matthews)

Washington, January 27, 1943—7:20 p.m.

A–386. Reference Department’s telegram No. 155, January 7, 1943, concerning the association of the American republics with the declaration on transfers of property in occupied territory.

Each of the American republics with the exception of Chile has announced its adherence to or association with the declaration in one form or another. In most cases the declaration was fully accepted; in a few instances there were implicit or express reservations. Statements issued by each of the countries in connection with their action will be forwarded to you under separate cover.¹⁷

In Argentina, Foreign Office replied by submitting a note to the British Embassy and subsequently informing the press that the Argentine note adhered to the United Nations protest “On the behalf of the principles of order and respect for International Law which have been invariable rules of our conduct with others”. The Argentine Government did not publish the terms of its note but stated that this may be done by the British Government. The British have made the contents of the note available to the United States Mission which has informed us that the pertinent paragraph of the note reads in translation as follows:

“In taking note of this declaration the Argentine Government considers that, when the moment for a decision arrives, it will then be the time for an application in a similar sense of the rules that inspire the political and juridical tradition of the republic, within the guarantees and procedures provided for in the institutional regime of the country for the protection of law and liberty in its own territory.”

No report has been received concerning Chile’s action in regard to the declaration but the Department will advise you as soon as a statement is received.¹⁸

Hull

17. Instruction No. 2446 of February 26, to the Chargé in the United Kingdom, not printed.
18. The Department’s airgram No. A–406, February 4, 1943, advised the Chargé in the United Kingdom of the receipt of a note from the Chilean Government expressing approval of the declaration (740.00113 European War 1939/723).