740.00119 European War 1939/8–2045
President Truman to the President of the Italian Council of Ministers (Parri)57
My Dear Mr. President: I was glad to have your communication of August 22, 1945, sent to me by means of Ambassador Tarchiani, and also your telegram of August 20, 1945.58
The anxiety and concern of the Italian Government and people at this time are indeed understandable. All of us are deeply concerned [Page 1052] that the first of the peace treaties to be concluded in Europe set a high standard for realistic, fair, and wise dealing with Europe’s complex post-war problems. The United States Delegation, for its part, does not approach the problems facing the Council of Foreign Ministers in London in any narrow spirit of reward and punishment. Its criterion is a simple one: what will best promote the laying of a firm foundation for an enduring peace among free peoples and best serve the interests of the United States, of Europe, and of the world.
The task before us is not easy, nor can every solution be perfect. Yet I am confident that with determination and goodwill we shall achieve a peace which will enable Italy to rebuild her political and economic structure and assume that place in the community of nations which the qualities of her people warrant and our common interests require.
I am [etc.]