861.24/6–2744: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Harriman) to the Secretary of State
[Received 10:02 p.m.]
2306. At a meeting between General Spalding and Krutikov, Vice Commissar of Foreign Trade, the following information was developed with reference to State Department telegram No. 1534, June 22, relating to proposed modification of the mutual aid agreement.
Delay had been caused by errors in cable transmission of the proposed agreement, and it had been necessary to await the original paper coming by diplomatic pouch. Also it was at first understood that our proposals were being submitted for acceptance as drafted. However, additional information indicated that Soviet counter-proposals would be considered. No particular difficulties had been encountered. Stepanov, Vice Commissar of Foreign Trade, is now in the United States and will very shortly be prepared to negotiate. He has the basic material for the negotiations. It was said the Soviet counter-proposal was similar to that of the United States. Mr. Krutikov said that it was not an appropriate time to give us a copy of the Soviet proposal nor to discuss the issues. The impression was given that a number of points would be finally settled as a result of negotiation.
It was pointed out that we are particularly interested in concluding the agreement so that the Fourth Protocol may be completed in order to prevent delays in the flow of supplies, with consequent slackening of the war effort. Mr. Krutikov said that steps would be taken to complete the negotiations as rapidly as possible.
It is requested that we be kept informed of the progress of the negotiations.