560.AL/10–1945: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the Soviet Union ( Harriman )
2505. Reurtel no. 3597, Oct 19. Dept aware many of the matters to be discussed in proposed negotiations are primarily applicable to countries with economies based on private enterprise. However, you will note from enclosure to Depts circular instruction, Nov 14, that US trade proposals do deal with question of rules for state trading which directly affect U.S.S.R. U.S.S.R., having complete monopoly of foreign trade, would be asked to agree to purchase foreign goods [Page 1349] up to minimum value in return for tariff and other trade barrier reductions on part of other countries.
In return for most-favored-nation treatment, which would be offered to U.S.S.R., U.S.S.R. would be asked to enter into commitment not to discriminate against commerce of other countries and to make all external purchases and sales solely on basis of commercial considerations.