Office of the Historian

702.5468/6: Telegram

The Minister in Switzerland (Harrison) to the Secretary of State

Bern, October 19, 1943.
[Received October 19—10:20 p.m.]

6562. American interests Greece. Foreign Office note October 13 states Department’s 1299, May 31 forwarded Swiss Legations Berlin and Athens. Swiss Legation Athens reports September 30.

[1.]
German authorities authorize member Swiss Legation Athens proceed Salonika once monthly.
2.
Closing Swiss Consulate causes inconveniences due poor postal communication Salonika, Athens. Swiss Legation nevertheless assisted by Inter [national] Croix Rouge delegate Salonika who transmits protected nationals forms for documentation and relief thereby reducing delays.
3.
Swiss Legation able pay subsistence protected nationals via bank or German Legation Athens. This method not yet used behalf Americans as no payments Americans Salonika yet approved.
4.
During recent visit Salonika member Swiss Legation Athens visited official property, verified archives unmolested. Had free contact protected nationals.

Swiss Foreign Office concludes Swiss Legation Berlin without reply German authorities questions raised Department’s 1299. Considering above report reply German authorities apparently little importance.

Harrison