881.01/10–2144: Telegram
The Chargé at Tangier (Elbrick) to the Secretary of State
[Received 2:46 p.m.]
313. In an interview of over an hour late yesterday Suner substantially confirmed interpretation of recent events as outlined in Legation telegram 312 October 19. He was most friendly and appeared to be very frank and sincere. He gave me to understand Uriarte’s removal had been prompted by Spain’s desire to eliminate discordant note in connection with its occupation of the Zone and that Orgaz (presumably after consulting Madrid) had chosen Uriarte’s departure to attend War College as propitious moment to effect the change. Suner assured me that his efforts would be directed toward maintaining harmonious relationship with all elements in Tangier and we could always count on his friendly and complete cooperation in our dealings with the Spanish authorities. In reply to my question Suner stated his new appointment implied no present change in Spanish administrative organization here.
He said he looked forward to the day when the interested powers would gather round a table to discuss Tangier and related problems and at that time he expected Spain would be accorded the recognition she deserved. He dwelt at length upon the many benefits accruing to Tangier from Spanish occupation. When I remarked Spanish administration left much to be desired he agreed but argued that Spain had saved the Zone from a worse fate by its timely intervention. This is the line which the Spanish may be expected to take henceforth. They seem to have abandoned hope of annexing the Zone and for the moment at least are reduced to appealing for a large measure of recognition as participants in any regime which may be set up in future.