891.796/12–2744

The American Embassy in Iran to the Iranian Ministry for Foreign Affairs 10

No. 92

The Embassy of the United States of America presents its compliments to the Imperial Ministry of Foreign Affairs and has the honor to set forth hereunder, on instructions from the Department of State, a statement of the views of the American Government with regard to the airports in foreign countries which it has been instrumental in constructing or improving during the present war.

The American Government, in connection with the prosecution of the war and the delivery of supplies and Lend-Lease materials to the other United Nations, has constructed or improved, in whole or in part, a large number of airports in various countries.

The American Government considers that these airports which it has helped to construct or improve should be available for the use of United States commercial aircraft on international services or civil aircraft conducting private flights as may be authorized by the countries in whose jurisdiction the airports lie. No infringement of sovereignty is involved; nor does the Government of the United States seek ownership, control or exclusive rights.

It is the intention of this Government, therefore, at a suitable time to seek agreement with the countries in whose territory these airports are located on matters relating to general landing rights and the use of airports.

[Page 495]

The Embassy avails itself of this opportunity to renew to the Imperial Ministry of Foreign Affairs the assurance of its highest consideration.

  1. Copy transmitted to the Department in despatch 129, November 27, from Tehran; received December 16.