857.014/10–1745: Telegram

The Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Harriman) to the Secretary of State

3575. Norwegian Ambassador told me yesterday that Molotov at Chinese reception October 10, had mentioned to him desirability of having further talks regarding question of bases on Spitsbergen and Bear Island. Norwegian Ambassador says last time this matter was discussed was in April just before Molotov’s departure for San Francisco. At that time he had presented to Molotov a general draft of an agreement which would give Soviet Government equal rights with Norwegian in a joint defense plan. Ambassador emphasized secrecy of these negotiations. He added that he understood Foreign Minister Lie had informed British and American Governments of the Soviet proposals to him while he was in Moscow and had subsequently advised the Soviet Government that he had informed us.

Harriman