711.94115 Exchange/8–1045: Telegram

The Minister in Switzerland (Harrison) to the Secretary of State

3851. American Interests—Far East. Your 2357, July 20. FonOff note August 6 states Gorgé replies during numerous interviews Jap officials latter did not hide that further civilian exchange had continually been deferred because difficulties obtain vessel. Situation this regard further aggravated result development military operations. Gorgé thought to gain time advisable insist that repatriation by groups be organized across Siberia because after great effort he believed impossible obtain Jap agreement further exchange by vessel.

Gorgé believes his position stronger if he could state Soviet Govt disposed assist repatriation via Siberia and if he had been able indicate method execution this plan. Nevertheless, he indicated repatriation via Siberia difficult under actual conditions result incessant bombardments ports and communications.

Problem having become most urgent result food shortage, Gorgé intends again discuss question insisting Jap reply proposals of interested govts. He will simultaneously raise question that if as result shipping shortage further exchange by sea not envisioned there remains possibility repatriation by groups via Siberia. He will likewise insist that question relief supplies via Nakhodka95 be again examined.

Note adds Dept 2425, July 3196 duly transmitted Swiss Legt Tokyo for information Jap Govt.

Harrison
  1. For documentation on the sending of relief assistance by way of Soviet territory, see vol. v, pp. 1053 ff., passim, and Foreign Relation, 1944, vol. iv, pp. 1159 ff.
  2. See bracketed note, p. 464.