865.01/10–2744: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the American Representative on the Advisory Council for Italy (Kirk)
338. Acting Secretary Stettinius made the following statement in press conference this morning:
“The resumption of formalized relations with Italy is an implementation of the joint statement on Italy by the President and the Prime Minister of September 26, 1944. It is in recognition of the efforts of the Italian people during the past year to establish a healthy political basis for government. It is in recognition of the representative, national Government that has been formed and supported by the various anti-fascist parties of liberated Italy. It is in recognition of the loyal cooperation of the Italian people and armed forces, during the past year, in the bitter struggle against our common enemy.
“The resumption of diplomatic relations with Italy does not reestablish peace, nor does it settle the many questions which will have to be dealt with before a formal state of peace is declared. Only the Congress can pass upon that final step. The resumption of formal relations with Italy is intended, however, to facilitate our return to a state of peace which is, of course, an objective of our Italian policy.”