865.01/10–1444: Circular telegram
The Secretary of State to the Diplomatic Representatives in the American Republics Except Argentina
This Government has consulted with the governments of the other American republics except Argentina (which has not severed relations with Italy) and has received expressions of opinion from all of them concerning establishment of diplomatic relations with the Italian Government. It wishes to bring to the attention of each the following summary of the views expressed by all.
- 1.
- Each Government has expressed itself as favorable to the establishment of diplomatic relations with the Italian Government provided agreement is reached by all governments to that end, as provided for in Resolution I of Rio de Janeiro.
- 2.
- Special interest in the subject on account of the number of citizens of Italian extraction was expressed by the Foreign Ministers of several countries, particularly Brazil, Venezuela and Mexico. The latter two referred also to the excellent conduct of Italian born minorities within their countries during the past year.
- 3.
- The Foreign Ministers of Peru and Venezuela indicated that considerable discussion had already been given to the question within their governments. The Peruvian Government was considering sending a consul or other agent to Italy.
- 4.
- The Chilean Foreign Minister expressed the belief that recognition of the Italian Government would effectively aid the establishment of democratic government in Italy and the winning of the war in Europe.
- 5.
- The Haitian Foreign Minister believes the step justified by the attitude of the Italian Government and the support of the United Nations war effort rendered by the Italian people.
- 6.
- The Paraguayan Foreign Minister pointed out that consideration of this step at this time was in accord with the high ideals that have been expressed during the war.
- 7.
- The Panamanian Foreign Minister commented favorably on the steps already announced to give greater control to the Italian Government and was confident that accord on the subject of recognition would be reached by the American governments through the consultations being held.
The Department has been informed that various republics held further consultations among themselves before replying to the inquiry which this Government addressed to them.
Several of the American republics, including Brazil, Chile and Paraguay, have stressed the importance of arranging for simultaneous action on the part of the American republics in announcing recognition of the Italian Government. This Government is thoroughly in accord with that view.
In view of the unanimous opinion reported above, this Government believes it desirable to proceed with the establishment of diplomatic relations with the Italian Government.
This Government suggests that October 26, 1944, be tentatively established as the date on which each American republic wishing to do so may announce in whatever manner it sees fit its intention of establishing diplomatic relations with the Italian Government. The announcement of the United States will be on the date agreed upon and will take the form of a public statement that Ambassador Kirk is being nominated as United States Ambassador to the Italian Government.
Between now and October 26 this Government will proceed to request an agrément for Ambassador Kirk from the Italian Government. It is believed that other American republics may wish to take similar action and this Government is glad to offer its services to other American Governments which do not now have representatives in Italy to facilitate the reestablishment of diplomatic relations through channels presently available.
Please communicate the foregoing to the Foreign Minister as soon as possible and inform the Department whether the procedure regarding announcement and the proposed date are satisfactory to the government [Page 1157] to which you are accredited. Please point out the need for keeping this matter in strictest confidence until the date for public announcement.