740.00119 Control (Bulgaria)/7–1745: Telegram
The Chargé in the Soviet Union (Kennan) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 17—8:30 p.m.]
2604. Noting that Vyshinski had said in June 30 letter to British Ambassador that ACC Bulgaria had been instructed to permit Greek liaison officer6 proceed Sofia in connection with reparations, British Chargé7 stated in letter of July 16 to FonOff that British Govt felt Greeks could not, as Vyshinski implied they should, be expected to have yet compiled claims list accurately related to Bulgaria’s capacity to pay. Circumstances have thus far necessitated submission only list damage inflicted by Bulgaria.
[Page 267]Roberts stated British Govt agrees that a function of ACC is to exact reparations in fulfilment armistice terms and only asks same ACC vigor on Greece’s behalf as exhibited for USSR. Among several suggestions was one that instead of broadening rail gauge Sofia-Kula for which no military justification exists material used might better be given Greeks as part payment on reparations. Chargé concluded with request that instructions be issued ACC Bulgaria to examine without delay how Bulgarian Govt can promptly begin implementing reparations obligation to Greece through deliveries of type suggested.
To Dept 2604; Athens 35; Sofia 69; London 370.